Meeting Preview: NPhA, SNPhA Annual Convention

This year’s National Pharmaceutical Association (NPhA) and Student National Pharmaceutical Association (SNPhA) Annual Convention, taking place August 1 to 4 in Cincinnati, Ohio, offers a powerful blend of professional development, community connection, and health equity advocacy. The convention’s mission is to support underserved communities while uplifting minority pharmacists and students.

Meeting Preview: NPhA, SNPhA Annual Convention / Thananit - stock.adobe.com

Attendees can expect an engaging and intimate experience, combining education with meaningful networking. Highlights include over 22 CE opportunities, 25 poster presentations, and the presentation of up to $40,000 in student scholarships. New initiatives debuting this year include SNPhA Speaks, where students showcase their research and passion projects, and a Social Determinants of Health certificate program that empowers future leaders to address real-world challenges.

“The history is rich in Cincinnati,” said Tamara McCants, PharmD, president of NPhA. “It's an honor to be back there to create an environment where pharmacists that are making sure that the underserved are getting the right health treatment can convene, have a safe space to talk about the difficulties that they may be facing, and also be inspired and get the tools they need to go back out there and fight the good fight.”

The keynote address by Nicole Avant, PharmD, BCACP, CEO and chief consultant at Avant Consulting Group, will center on navigating systemic barriers and driving transformative change. The Community RX Innovation Lab, a partnership with Good Neighbor Pharmacy, invites teams to develop sustainable solutions for community pharmacies amid industry shifts and closures. In addition, attendees can participate in an OTC Drive, with donations collected at the SNPhA Store and delivered to the Covington Salvation Army.

Beyond education, attendees can enjoy events like the Bridging the Gap reception and the President’s Dessert Reception, fostering connection between student pharmacists and professionals in a supportive, family-like environment.

For first-time attendees, the message is clear: come with an open mind, a ready smile, and your LinkedIn QR code. Whether you're seeking mentorship, collaboration, or inspiration, this convention offers the space to be seen, supported, and empowered.

“This year’s convention is a place and a time for us to get together as student pharmacists and pharmacists … as a community,” said Tazche Turner, PharmD, national president of SNPhA. “I think that is one of the most exciting parts about our convention … Coming together with like-minded pharmacy students dedicated to serving the underserved and really embracing our mission. We work so hard during the year, so being able to come together and reunite with some familiar faces and friends that you meet maybe once or twice at other conventions is always what's so special.”

READ MORE: Pharmacists Advance Health Equity at NPhA, SNPhA Annual Convention

Session Highlights

Friday, August 1 at 8:30 AM

Executive Orders and The Reshaping of Healthcare in Underrepresented Communities

Jewell Reddick, PharmD, Esq, will give a clear explanation of executive orders, how they differ from laws, and their role in government. Explore key 2025 orders affecting healthcare equity, their legal challenges, and gain practical tools to advocate for improved access and outcomes in underrepresented communities.

Friday, August 1 at 10 AM

Substance Abuse Among Healthcare Professionals. "When The Help Needs Help"

Jason C. Dove, PharmD, shares his personal and professional insights on substance abuse among healthcare professionals. This session covers substances of abuse, risk factors, and treatment barriers, equipping attendees to recognize warning signs and support colleagues through evidence-based strategies for overcoming addiction in the healthcare workforce.

Saturday, August 2 at 10:15 AM

Making Every Patient Feel Seen: The Role of Inclusive Language in Healthcare

Kirstyn Hill, PharmD, MPH, discusses the importance of inclusive language in healthcare, highlighting harmful stereotypes and language patterns. Learn practical tools and patient-centered phrasing to promote equity across clinical, research, community, and workplace settings, empowering you to implement inclusive communication that supports better health outcomes for all populations.

Saturday, August 2 at 2 PM

Raising Your Voice in Support of Global Childhood Immunization Programs

Rebecca Maxie, MPS, explores global childhood vaccination challenges and the federal appropriations process. This session empowers pharmacists with advocacy tools, policy influence techniques, and a clear action plan to lead efforts in securing funding and advancing vaccine equity worldwide.

Click here to learn more about the NPhA Annual Meeting.

Ready to impress your pharmacy colleagues with the latest drug information, industry trends, and patient care tips? Sign up today for our free Drug Topics newsletter.