Florida A&M University Marks 75 Years of Pharmacy and Public Health Education

Florida A&M University Marks 75 Years of Pharmacy and Public Health Education April 29, 2026 Administration By Laila Lynch, public relations intern Florida A&M University Marks 75 Years of Pharmacy and Public Health Education TALLAHASSEE, Fla. — Florida A&M University (FAMU) College of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Institute of Public Health (CoPPS, IPH) is marking its 75th anniversary under the theme “Excellence with Purpose: 75 Years of Transforming Lives.” Since its founding, the college has grown from a small program into a national leader in minority health and medical research. As part of a historically Black university, its mission has focused on expanding access to education and increasing representation in the health professions. Seth Y. Ablordeppey, PhD, the interim dean and eminent scholar chair in biomedical sciences, noted that the college’s impact extends far beyond the classroom. “Looking back over the past 75 years, the greatest contribution of the College of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences Institute of Public Health has been its unwavering commitment to expanding access to healthcare through excellence in education, research, service, and scholarship, particularly within underserved and minority communities,” he said. Interim Dean Seath Ablordeppey, PhD, pictured with CoPPS, IPH, administrators. (Photo special to FAMU) Ablordeppey further added that as an HBCU-based program, they have not only produced generations of highly competent pharmacists and scientists, but intentionally shaped leaders who understand the cultural, social, and economic determinants of health. “That legacy of impact, rooted in purpose and equity, remains one of our proudest achievements,” he said. The anniversary comes as the college reports gains in student performance. For the first time, 90% of students passed their North American Pharmacist Licensure Examination, or NAPLEX board exams. This success is thanks to the Resources for Increasing Success on Exams (R.I.S.E.) program, an initiative and a curriculum that now integrates AI-enhanced instruction and precision medicine. For current students, the milestone reflects the legacy they are continuing. “Being a part of the 75th graduating class feels like a huge responsibility and an even bigger honor,” said Jordan Miller, a third-year professional pharmacy student. “We aren’t just learning how to dispense medicine; we’re learning how to be advocates for patients in our neighborhoods back home who have been overlooked for too long.” The year-long celebration will include several events, such as a formal ceremony and a culminating celebration. These events are designed not just to honor the past, but to secure the future by raising funds for scholarships and program innovations. August 2025 White Coat Ceremony participants are all smiles after their accomplishment. (Photo special to FAMU) Looking toward the next 75 years, the college is setting its sights on global leadership. Ablordeppey said the college is a clinical trials program aimed at increasing participation from underrepresented populations in medical research. “Our aspiration is clear: to build on our legacy as a premier pharmacy, pharmaceutical sciences, and Institute of Public Health program while evolving into a globally recognized center of excellence,”he said. As CoPPS, IPH moves forward, it continues to play a key role in advancing health equity and preparing a diverse pipeline of health care professionals. Media Contact Rachel James-TerrySenior Director of Strategic Communicationsrachel.jamesterry@famu.edu Share this article Back to Stories Contact Us Office of Communications 1601 South MLK Blvd. Suite 200 Tallahassee, Florida 32307 P: (850) 599-3413 E: communications@famu.edu