Valerie Prince, PharmD, BCPS, FAPhA
(#168) APhA Pres: 2023-2024
Academic Journey
Dr. Prince graduated from Mercer University College of Pharmacy (formerly Mercer University Southern School of Pharmacy) in 1993. She completed a PGY1 residency program at The Med in Memphis in 1994. She earned the designation of Board-Certified Pharmacotherapy Specialist (BCPS) in 2005 and has maintained this throughout her career.
Career Journey
Dr. Prince started her pharmacy career at an independent community pharmacy (B&K) in Birmingham, Alabama. She later worked in chain, community, and long-term care as a student. Following conclusion of her residency she was blessed with a job offer at Samford University for a co-funded practice position at a local hospital. In the ensuing 32 years she remained at Samford and progressed from Assistant to Associate and finally full Professor status. She enjoyed a variety of practice sites including her favorite at St. Vincent's Family Medicine Residency Program where she practiced for 21 years culminating in retirement in 2026.
APhA Journey
Dr. Prince began her APhA journey through an APhA Student Chapter (formerly APhA Academy of Students of Pharmacy). She served in several positions including a term as APhA-ASP Speaker of the House of Delegates. Determined to hold her professional anchor, she applied for a position on the New Practitioner Committee during her residency. Later she moved up through the leadership chairs of the former APhA Academy of Practice and Management and served a term as Speaker of the APhA House. Following a 10-year hiatus dedicated to her children she was elected as the 13th lady President of APhA.
Personal Story
Dr. Prince's presidential theme was "Such a Time as This" based on the bible verse Esther 4:14. She believes this verse should be an encouragement to all of us. It is her personal belief that God has a plan for every life. If He plans for someone to hold a leadership position, He will prepare the person for that role although the person often does not realize it. At the end of Dr. Prince's term as Speaker she thought she was "retired" from APhA service, but she believes God had a different plan.
Mentor?
Dr. Jim Bartling was a state association leader and a faculty member. He tempered encouragement with a perspective about keeping priorities in order. Famous quote in response to her resisting studying instead of "APhAing": "Yeah Valerie that gavel is going to look great on your shelf instead of a diploma."
Tips for the path toward APhA Leadership/Presidency?
Dr. Prince's advice is to first realize there are many paths and no cookie cutter process for getting to APhA leadership. She advises aspiring leaders to take advantage of every opportunity to learn and serve as much as possible while maintaining a healthy work-life balance. These opportunities don't always come with an official office or appointment. They should be recognized as chances to contribute or prepare yourself for future roles in life. Dr. Prince's philosophy is that there are no "more" or "less" important people long as each person is following God's will for their life.