Class of 2010: 'Pioneers setting the bar'

The Texas A&M Health Science Center Irma Lerma Rangel College of Pharmacy recently hosted activities related to its inaugural commencement, beginning with a college awards banquet May 14 at the Caesar Kleberg Wildlife Center at Texas A&M University-Kingsville.

More than 20 awards were presented to Class of 2010 recipients in recognition of their hard work and excellence in the pharmacy field. Addressing the students, faculty, staff and guests at the awards banquet was Nancy W. Dickey, M.D., president of the Texas A&M Health Science Center and vice chancellor for health affairs for The Texas A&M University System.

"You are all pioneers because you were willing to come to a school with no tradition," Dr. Dickey said. "But, you came here, and you set the bar."

Sen. Leticia Van de Putte, D-San Antonio, a pharmacist for more than 30 years and currently serving her fifth term as a state senator, delivered the keynote address. She conveyed to the graduates and guests that being a pharmacist means more than just having an expertise in medicines that treat and prevent human disease; it also means advising patients and being health coaches.

"We are primarily obligated to our patients, but also recognize that your service extends to the community as a whole," Sen. Van de Putte told the graduates. "Remember, being a pharmacist is about more than the compensation. It is about pursuing the best life possible for the people who come to you with their trust, their pain, and their hope for relief."