Pharmacy Student Selected for National Committee

Committee serves to provide legislative and policy input

James Parrett
Photo courtesy of Ole Miss Communcations

OXFORD, Miss. – A former attorney enrolled in the University of Mississippi School of Pharmacy’s professional program and the Graduate School’s pharmacy administration program has been selected to serve in an advisory capacity to the American Society of Health-System Pharmacists.

James Parrett is among 10 pharmacy students from across the U.S. chosen to serve on the Policy and Legislative Advocacy Advisory Group of ASHP’s Pharmacy Student Forum.

“I’m so pleased to be able to serve the profession of pharmacy at a national level through my participation in this group,” Parrett said. “I’ve always had an interest in policy, and I am excited about the opportunities that this membership will provide.”

The group, known as PLAAG in pharmacy circles, performs a number of tasks, including providing ASHP with advice on effective methods to educate students about political issues and exploring innovative means to promote student involvement in policy and legislation.

An Oxford resident since 2010, Parrett hopes his unique background will help him be a productive PLAAG member.

“Prior to attending pharmacy school, I worked as an attorney for eight years,” Parrett said. “I’m hoping that I can use my legal background to help create policy changes that advance the practice of pharmacy at a national level.”

Erin Holmes, assistant professor of pharmacy administration and his thesis adviser, believes that Parrett will contribute greatly to the group.

“James has a strong history of leadership and policy development,” she said. ”Combined with his strong work ethic, professionalism, commitment to the pharmacy profession and experience as an attorney, he will undoubtedly be an asset to PLAAG.”

Within the School of Pharmacy, Parrett organizes events for pre-pharmacy students as their liaison. He is a member of the Student Executive Council and Faculty Student Relations Committee. Last year, he was president of his class. On a university level, he is an Associated Student Body senator and chairs its Academics and Administration Committee. He also is an adviser for Chi Psi fraternity.

Parrett encourages fellow students to take advantage of opportunities to provide leadership on a national level.

“It is never too early for students to get involved with national organizations – particularly ones that are looking for student input,” he said. “This is an excellent networking opportunity to meet students and practitioners across the country.”

Members of PLAAG will teleconference throughout the year and meet in person during ASHP’s midyear meeting on Dec. 7.

— Erin Garrett and Barbara Lago, Ole Miss News Desk