Salesia Smith-Gordon, Esq. receives Distinguished Service Award

- June 25th, 2023
On June 22–25, 2023, the National Diamondback Pharmacy Alumni Council (NDPAC) hosted its 53rd Annual Convention at the JW Marriott Bonnet Creek Resort and Spa in Orlando, Florida. This exciting event brought together alumni, faculty, and students, offering opportunities for networking, education, and celebration. Attendees earned up to six hours of continuing education credits and received an update on the state of the College from Dean Early.
The convention included discussions on increasing membership and participation, strategies for recruiting students to the College, and updates on the Council’s activities during the 2022–2023 fiscal year. Highlights of the event included special recognition awards, with the Tampa Bay Chapter being named Chapter of the Year and Dr. Angela Hill receiving the honor of Pharmacist of the Year. Attorney Salesia Smith-Gordon was celebrated with the Distinguished Service Award, recognizing her exceptional contributions and dedication to the organization.
Representative Dr. Gallop P. Franklin II, serving as the banquet speaker, delivered an inspiring address that encouraged alumni to engage politically and make an impact within their communities. A particularly notable feature of this convention was the attendance of seven PharmD candidates, showcasing a bright future for the pharmacy profession and strengthening ties between alumni and current students.
The convention offered a wonderful opportunity to reconnect with familiar faces and support the College of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Institute of Public Health (CoPPS, IPH). It was a weekend filled with inspiration, collaboration, and a shared commitment to advancing the mission of the Council. The Distinguished Service Award and other accolades highlighted the outstanding achievements within the NDPAC community. Don’t miss next year’s 54th Annual Convention—another chance to celebrate, connect, and contribute!