February 2026
As we begin a new year, many of us are just wrapping up pharmacy residency interview season—a whirlwind period filled with meaningful conversations, mentorship, and the excitement of meeting the next generation of ambulatory care pharmacists. It is always energizing to see the passion and curiosity of so many exceptional candidates. Thank you to all who spent time coordinating interviews, hosting candidates, supporting showcase events, and ensuring that learners felt welcomed into our professional community. Your efforts help shape the future of our workforce and reinforce the strength of our specialty.
In December, we gathered at the 60th ASHP Midyear Clinical Meeting. Our Ambulatory Care Networking Sessions were well attended and generated great discussion as well as new connections among attendees. Specifically, our Ambulatory Care Networking & Poster Session welcomed more than 200 attendees, reflecting the incredible growth and visibility of our specialty. The energy in the room reinforced the powerful momentum driving ambulatory care forward. Special thanks to ASHP President Melanie Dodd who provided some impromptu remarks to kick off a memorable session.
One of the events I enjoy most at the Midyear Clinical Meeting is the Distinguished Service Awards ceremony. It is always so inspiring to hear how the contributions of members across all of ASHP’s Sections have made an impact and helped to shape pharmacy practice. This year, we had the opportunity to honor Dr. Jamie Cavanaugh as the SACP Distinguished Service Award recipient. Jamie’s exemplary leadership, collaborative spirit, and dedication to advancing our section have had a lasting impact. I have had the pleasure of working with Jamie on multiple occasions, including partnering with her on several SAG initiatives and serving alongside her during my very first year on the Executive Committee. I have seen firsthand the insight and commitment to advancing practice she brings to every effort. This recognition is truly well deserved.
Moments like Jamie’s recognition remind us how far we have come and how much potential lies ahead. With that forward‑looking mindset, we are also entering a period of thoughtful evolution across our Section Advisory Group and Committee structure. After careful review of our Section needs, the Pain & Palliative Care SAG will sunset at the end of this volunteer year. I am deeply grateful for the dedicated members who strengthened clinical care and generated valuable resources through this group. To ensure continuity, a Pain & Palliative Care Task Force will convene for the 2026–2027 cycle to complete ongoing deliverables and transition key workstreams.
At the same time, we are excited to launch a new SAG. The Operations & Practice Leadership SAG will have its inaugural year in 2026-2027. This advisory group reflects the growing importance of workflow optimization, leadership readiness, sustainable practice models, and system-level excellence within ambulatory care. Their work will support members as we collectively navigate evolving expectations and expanding opportunities in ambulatory pharmacy practice.
Our committee structure is evolving as well. The Educational Steering Committee is being rebranded as the Training Advancement and Workforce Development SAG. While the group will continue its leadership in delivering hallmark programs like Ambulatory Care Pearls and GEMS sessions, its expanded scope reflects our increasing focus on workforce recruitment, development, retention, and career sustainability. This evolution positions our Section to support practitioners across the entire career continuum and strengthen the long-term health of the ambulatory care workforce.
As we look ahead, I encourage you to consider getting even more involved in shaping the future of our Section. Applications to serve on a Section Advisory Group (SAG) are now open through April 15th (include link to application). Our SAGs are the engines of innovation within SACP, and volunteering is one of the most meaningful ways to expand your network, contribute your expertise, and influence the direction of ambulatory care pharmacy. Whether you are passionate about advancing clinical practice, supporting operational excellence, or mentoring the next generation, there is a place for your voice and talents in our advisory groups.
As we move into the year ahead, I hope you continue to find connection, inspiration, and purpose within our Section. Together, we are advancing patient care, strengthening our professional community, and shaping the future of ambulatory care pharmacy.
Ashley Parrott
Chair, ASHP Section of Ambulatory Care Practitioners
