Celebrating Two Decades of Impact

The event reflected on two decades of service, innovation, community impact and a forward-looking exploration of the pharmacist's evolving role in modern healthcare. The celebration kicked off with a high-level panel discussion exploring the shifting tides of pharmacy practice, policy, and innovation. The panel featured distinguished voices in the field, including Dr. Jonathan Watanabe, Dr. Loriann DeMartini, and Dr. Nahla Alabbas. Joined by other invited leaders, the panelists engaged in a robust dialogue about how pharmacists are moving beyond traditional roles to become central figures in clinical policy and healthcare technology. 

A Legacy of Leadership 

In a rare moment, the event brought together the past, present, and future of the College's administration. Three of the four deans who have guided the program since its inception in 2005 were in attendance to celebrate the milestone 

Dr. Katherine Knapp, the Founding Dean whose vision established the College's unique clinical rotations model. Dr. Rae Matsumoto, the Second Dean who oversaw a period of significant research expansion and community outreach. Dr. Catherine Cone, the Current Dean who is leading the College into its third decade of innovation. 

The presence of these three leaders offered a living timeline of the College's growth, from its first graduating class to its status as a pillar of health education in Solano County. Over the last twenty years, the College of Pharmacy has expanded its regional impact far beyond the Mare Island campus.  

Through foundational community partnerships, student clinicians and faculty preceptors regularly provide vital care where it is needed most. This hands-on impact is felt weekly at the local Student-Run Free Clinic (SRFC), where pharmacy students conduct essential medication reviews and health screenings for uninsured residents. 

Following the panel, Dean Catherine Cone provided a warm welcome, officially recognizing the College’s 20-year journey. Since its founding, the TUC College of Pharmacy has been dedicated to serving communities in need and advancing the standards of pharmaceutical care. 

"The 20th Anniversary celebration represented much more than a milestone for our College. It was an opportunity to reflect on two decades of educating pharmacists who have gone on to improve the lives of patients and strengthen communities throughout California and beyond. It was also a chance to honor the faculty, staff, students, alumni, preceptors, and partners whose dedication has shaped the College into what it is today," Dr. Cone emphasized in reflection of the anniversary event.  

Keynote: Leadership in an Evolving Landscape 

The evening’s keynote address was delivered by Dr. Melanie Dodd, President of the American Society of Health-System Pharmacists (ASHP). Dr. Dodd highlighted the expanding opportunities for pharmacists to influence patient outcomes and urged the next generation of TUC graduates to embrace the challenges of an evolving healthcare landscape. 

"One of the highlights of the evening was hearing from leaders who are helping define the future of pharmacy," Dr. Cone noted. 

Cone continued, "The panel discussion provided valuable perspectives on how pharmacists are increasingly serving as essential members of healthcare teams, while Dr. Melanie Dodd's keynote challenged us to think boldly about the opportunities ahead. Her message reinforced that pharmacists are uniquely positioned to improve access to care, advance patient outcomes, and lead innovation across healthcare systems." 

A Toast to Excellence 

The formal program concluded with a celebratory toast, honoring 20 years of educating compassionate pharmacists. 

"As we look toward the future, the College of Pharmacy remains committed to preparing practice-ready graduates who are equipped to lead in an evolving profession. We will continue to innovate in pharmacy education, expand opportunities for our students, strengthen partnerships with healthcare organizations, and remain focused on our mission of serving communities in need," remarked Dr. Cone. 

Cone concluded, "The first twenty years have been remarkable, but I believe the most exciting chapters are still ahead." 

The event was a homecoming for many, drawing a remarkable turnout of alumni who shared stories and renewed professional ties. This vibrant gathering perfectly captured the spirit of the pharmacy community. A true "pharmily" solidifying the bonds of the TUC College of Pharmacy as they look toward the next twenty years of service and innovation.