<p><em>Ashley Lanham came to NACDS headquarters in June for a year on an NACDS Foundation Executive Fellowship. She is originally from a small town, Whitesville, Kentucky, in the western part of the state. She went to school at the University of Kentucky, where she received her PharmD and MBA degree. NACDS.org caught up with her recently to discuss her experience so far.</em></p>
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<p><em>Q: Essentially, you’re the future of pharmacy. Where do you see the pharmacy profession heading, and what are you excited about in particular with the direction it’s going? </em></p>
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<p>A: We’re in a dynamic environment right now with healthcare and the Affordable Care Act. It’s all about access, and pharmacy is certainly an access point. As more people come into the healthcare marketplace, pharmacists are going to be able to provide the services and the care patients need. I’m really excited about it. </p>
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<p>We have a lot of innovative services that we can provide and I’m looking forward to working with the Foundation to do research on future projects that enhance patient care and promote public health. </p>
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<p><em>Q: Why did you decide to pursue pharmacy as a career? </em></p>
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<p>My grandfather was a pharmacist and a community pharmacy owner, so I grew up in pharmacy. I observed firsthand the relationship and personal connection between a patient and a pharmacist. My grandfather truly affected the lives of his patients, and I'm hoping I can do the same.</p>
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<p><em>Q: How has your experience at NACDS Foundation been? </em></p>
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<p>It’s been really amazing. We have a lot of projects that we’re working on, and the Foundation has really given me a place at the table in order to really affect those projects. It has been a pleasure working with the Foundation so far, and I'm looking forward to an exciting year.</p>
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