HU Names New Pharmacy Dean

Dr. Wayne Harris

Hampton, VA - Dr. Wayne Harris began his appointment as the dean of Hampton University's School of Pharmacy June 7. Harris, who served as chair of the HU Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences from 1998-2000, is now at the helm of the school.

Before returning to HU, Harris served in several capacities at Xavier University of Louisiana, including professor in the Division of Basic and Pharmaceutical Sciences and dean of the College of Pharmacy. Xavier is one of the top three universities in the production of African American pharmacists.

“I believe Dr. Harris is highly qualified to lead the pharmacy program and I welcome him back to our ‘Home by the Sea,’” said HU Provost Dr. Pamela Hammond. “Dr. Harris' background will take the School of Pharmacy to new heights in academic excellence, research, and community service activities related to pharmacy care.”

Harris is excited about returning to HU and contributing to the university’s success.

“I returned to HU because of the opportunity to continue to provide leadership in minority pharmacy education, and to engage pharmacists in efforts to eliminate health disparities,” he said. “I want to maintain a strong academic program that focuses on continuous quality improvement and establish Hampton as a leader in minority pharmacy education, as well as increase the research and service productivity of the school.”

While at Xavier University, Harris established a Center for Minority Health and Health Disparities Research and Education, the school’s pharmacy enrollment increased by approximately 40 percent, and he collaborated with other university administrators in Hurricane Katrina recovery efforts. In addition, he helped increase pharmacy specific endowment from approximately $800,000 to $40 million.

Overall, Harris aims to improve pharmacy teaching at HU and community outreach.

“Pharmacy provides numerous opportunities for growth and development in clinical practice, pharmaceutical research, government service, and managed care organizations,” he said. “In addition, African Americans and other minority groups continue to be underrepresented in the profession and we must be actively involved in making young people aware of the opportunities, needs and the significant financial rewards the profession provides. We must educate the community regarding under representation in health professions, and health disparities and the actions needed. In addition, we must ensure that the necessary resources are available.”

Harris earned a bachelor’s of science degree in pharmacy from Mercer University School of Pharmacy, and master’s of science and Ph.D. degrees in medicinal chemistry from the University of Kansas.

The HU School of Pharmacy is accredited by the Accreditation Council for Pharmacy Education (ACPE). The program offers an innovative, entry-level, professional program leading to the Doctor of Pharmacy (Pharm.D.) degree. The entry-level doctor of pharmacy program requires six years for completion. In 2004 and 2005, pharmacy students scored 100 percent on the North American Pharmacist Licensure Examination (NAPLEX), an exam each graduate must take to become a licensed pharmacist in the U.S.