S2 Ep32: Public Health Matters: Representation, Advocacy, and Mentorship Across Race and Gender

In this episode, host Dr. Christina Madison interviews Dr. Frank North, president of the National Pharmaceutical Association and assistant professor at the Irma Lerma Rangel College of Pharmacy. They discuss North's leadership journey and advocacy efforts to increase representation and support for minority pharmacists, while emphasizing the importance of mentorship, networking, and collaboration within the profession.Key Takeaways:  Importance of Mentorship: North discussed how essential good mentors are, and having mentors who look like you, especially for underrepresented minority groups in pharmacy. North credits his success to consistent mentorship and support from peers who were also non-traditional pharmacy students. Advocacy for Increased Representation: Representation and inclusion of minority voices in healthcare policy and decision-making are critical to a healthy profession. North talks about his involvement in building relationships with external groups like the Congressional Black Caucus and the National Medical Association, and the success doing so had on amplifying the needs of the Black community. Join Pharmacy Organizations: Madison and North talked of the importance of joining relevant pharmacy organizations, especially affinity groups, for professional development, networking, and supporting students and early-career pharmacists from underrepresented backgrounds. You can find Dr. North on social media: #IKnowFrank on all platforms @DrFrankRPH on Instagram Frank North, Pharm.D. on Facebook Frank North on LinkedIn You can stay up-to-date with the National Pharmaceutical Association: @NPhAPresident on Instagram for news about the incoming NPhA president @NPhAPharmacy on Instagram for NPhA news @SNPhA on Instagram for student voices and news Listen on Apple Podcasts or Spotify.