Cindy Stowe, PharmD
Dean and Professor at the Sullivan University College of Pharmacy
Education: B.S. in Pharmacy and Doctor of Pharmacy from the University of Kentucky College of Pharmacy
Hobbies: Attending sporting events, traveling, reading, hiking, biking, and gardening.
What was your first job in healthcare? What did you take away from that job that you use today? My first job in healthcare was as a pharmacy intern. Everyone has a story – listen closely, and learn how to put people at ease or defuse a situation.
How do you approach management and leadership Sullivan University College of Pharmacy (SUCOP)? Listening, empowering and removing barriers.
As a leader, we all face many challenges. What challenges do you face in your role that are unique because you work in healthcare? Educating future generations of pharmacists with the knowledge, skill, attitude and behavior to adapt, innovate and lead over a 40-50 year career.
What is your very best skill — the thing that sets you apart from others? My passion for excellence and the willingness to take calculated risks.
Where do you do your best thinking? I think I do my best thinking in environments with open dialog with a willingness to challenge the status quo.
What was the most significant event/development at SUCOP in 2015? Admission of the class of 2018 and graduation of the class of 2015 – the impact that these practitioners will make on the lives of their patients and communities are immeasurable.
What opportunities do you see for SUCOP in 2016? We have the opportunity to more effectively collaborate and partner to enhance patient outcomes through improved pharmacy practice models and richer learning experiences for our students. Challenges? A financially viable model to allow pharmacists to practice at the top of their license.
If you could eliminate one of the healthcare industry’s problems overnight, which would it be? I would eliminate healthcare disparity inclusive of access, coverage, and quality of care for vulnerable populations.
How do you revitalize yourself? I am a sports fan and enjoy attending college football and basketball games. I attend the NCAA Men’s Final Four each year! On a day-to-day basis, I like to get out the office for lunch, take walks and get out of town on the weekends…to refocus, rest and relax.
What’s one piece of advice you remember most clearly? Work hard, genuinely care about people, be honest and be fearless.
How have your parents influenced your leadership style?
My parents instilled a strong work ethic and persistency to achieve excellence. They taught me to value people and to treat others with respect. Ultimately, they taught me to lead by example and appreciate the meaning of team.
Were there certain expressions that your parents would repeat often to you?
I don’t remember anything specific but it was clear early on that nothing was given – it was earned.
