Dean's Note: The distinctiveness of the College of Pharmacy
I was asked recently, “What are some other pharmacy schools that are like Mercer?” Honestly, I had difficulty with coming up with a list, at least in our area of the country. On the surface, pharmacy schools may look more alike than different, but the differences set us apart and often determine why aspiring pharmacists choose to attend a particular school.I think the reason I struggle with the question of who looks like us is because the characteristics that describe us are really different, almost unique among pharmacy schools.
First, it’s our geography. Atlanta is an international city with a metropolitan population approaching 6 million, the world’s busiest airport, 18 Fortune 500 companies, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, large insurance companies, and pharmaceutical companies. The logistic, cultural, and lifestyle amenities make Atlanta a desirable location for aspiring pharmacists.
Second, our diversity. There is no cultural, ethnic, or racial majority at the College. When all minority groups are combined, they are well over half the student body. Mercer graduates the most Black or African American pharmacists among Georgia pharmacy schools. We know that they are more likely to practice in underserved areas and address health inequalities than the general population of pharmacists. There are 35 spoken languages among our students. Students commonly tell me a key reason they chose to attend Mercer is the diversity of the class and of Atlanta.
Third, we are a comprehensive research university, designated as high research, while also dedicated to excellence in teaching. Almost half of our pharmacy students are involved in research for elective course credit, summer internships, or as volunteers. Our Ph.D. students receive top awards at almost every conference where they present their work.
Fourth, Mercer is a high-community outreach university. Service learning is part of our required curriculum, and all 17 student professional organizations are involved in community service. In just the past two years, five of our student organizations were recognized as national chapters of the year by their parent organizations.
All in all, we have a package of distinctiveness that sets us apart. We’re a private pharmacy school, student-focused but also with high research activity and exceptional cultural diversity, in a major metropolitan area with lifestyle amenities and multiple non-traditional career pathways. Many schools share one or more of these qualities, but as I survey the landscape, I don’t really see us in the mirror.
All academic pharmacy and the profession of pharmacy face challenges in defining new opportunities, overcoming burnout, and navigating a complex clinical, regulatory, and business environment. I remain convinced that this distinctive package that describes the College of Pharmacy at Mercer will help position us for continued success.
As always, I am grateful to serve as your Dean. Come see us. You’re always welcome on campus.
Yours very sincerely,
Brian L. Crabtree
Professor and Dean
Professor and Dean
