In 2015, Chapman University took a groundbreaking step in Orange County's healthcare landscape by inaugurating its School of Pharmacy (CUSP). Pioneering a new era in pharmaceutical education, CUSP stands as a testament to Chapman's commitment to advancing health sciences and shaping the future of pharmacy professionals.
A Visionary Dean and a State-of-the-Art Campus
Heading the charge is Ron Jordan, R.Ph., FAPh.A, the founding dean of CUSP. With a rich background, including leading the completion of a $75 million research and teaching facility at the University of Rhode Island, Dean Jordan is poised to revolutionize pharmacy education in Orange County.
The Health Sciences Campus in Irvine, the hub of this revolutionary initiative, is set to become a focal point for aspiring pharmacists. In 2015, the campus will welcome the first class of pharmacy students, marking the beginning of a transformative journey.
Meeting Healthcare Challenges Head-On
Entering the professional portion of its program, CUSP aims to equip students with the skills needed to thrive in a rapidly evolving healthcare arena. Dean Jordan envisions pharmacists playing a pivotal role in influencing patient behavior and reducing errors in healthcare delivery.
Lawrence Brown, Professor of Pharmacoeconomics and Health Policy at CUSP, underscores the critical role of pharmacists in the dynamic landscape of healthcare. Using the example of warfarin, he highlights the significance of genetic data in tailoring drug doses for optimal effectiveness and safety.
Preparing for the Future: Pharmacists as Genetic Care Experts
As the healthcare landscape embraces personalized medicine, CUSP is at the forefront of preparing pharmacists to interpret and apply genetic data in patient care. Chapman's Doctor of Pharmacy graduates will navigate a future where patients bring a portfolio of genetic information, enabling precise and tailored drug prescriptions from the outset.
Brown emphasizes the efficiency and cost-effectiveness of this approach, illustrating how specific genetic markers can guide dosage decisions, preventing ineffective or harmful outcomes. CUSP's forward-thinking curriculum positions its graduates to lead in this era of genetic care.
Collaboration and Innovation: Pillars of CUSP's Approach
CUSP's faculty, led by Dean Jordan, is not just building a school; they are fostering an environment of collaboration and innovation. The Dean’s Professional Advisory Group, featuring executives from major employers of pharmacists in Orange County, exemplifies the commitment to real-world relevance.
Keykavous Parang, Pharm.D., Ph.D., professor and associate dean of research, graduate studies, and global affairs at CUSP, envisions adventurous career opportunities for pharmacists. The emphasis on collaborative care aligns with the changing dynamics of healthcare teams, where pharmacists play a central role.
Challenges and Excitement: Creating Change Agents
The process of establishing CUSP is invigorating, with the team tackling challenges head-on. From strategic planning to accreditation deadlines, the faculty and staff are dedicated to creating a school that not only educates but also empowers future pharmacists.
With an eye on the future, CUSP is linking to other disciplines at Chapman, including biology, chemistry, and even film. Lawrence Brown's desire to portray pharmacists in a more dynamic light through movies exemplifies the innovative spirit permeating CUSP.
Conclusion: Shaping the Future of Pharmacy
As the College of Pharmacy at Chapman University takes shape, it is evident that CUSP is not just an institution; it is a catalyst for change. Dean Jordan's excitement about preparing students for the opportunities that await underscores the commitment to delivering something of real value to society.
In the realm of pharmaceutical education, Chapman University School of Pharmacy stands poised to lead, innovate, and shape the future of pharmacy professionals. As Orange County's first pharmacy school, CUSP is not just breaking ground; it's laying the foundation for a new era in pharmaceutical excellence.