New Pharmacy Dean Outlines Plans for Growth

He’s been on the job eight months, and already the new dean of the University of Houston College of Pharmacy is implementing projects that will position U of H at the forefront of pharmacy research, education and clinical care.

Sunny Ohia, Ph.D., who was appointed dean Oct. 1, comes to U of H from the Creighton University School of Pharmacy and Allied Health Professions, where he most recently served as associate dean of administration and as a professor in the departments of pharmacy science, pharmacology, and biomedical sciences.

One of his top priorities as U of H pharmacy dean is to implement joint-degree programs that will allow students to pursue studies in the pharmacological and pharmaceutical sciences while simultaneously obtaining a nonscience degree.

“The combined degree will offer our students a competitive edge in the job market of the future,” Ohia said.

He also plans to expand the number of residencies and fellowships offered through the school.

Ohia’s focus is on the student as a whole person. He believes it is of the utmost importance for students to consider themselves more than attentive observers who master their academic studies and excel in their professions. They must also be active stewards who understand the significance and impact of community service.

“Last month, a dozen of our students volunteered to serve as judges for the Houston Independent School District’s middle school science competition. They understand that they are expected to be examples of leaders both academically and as citizens of the greater community,” said Ohia.

The new pharmacy dean is not only making an impact with current students, but he has also been embraced by the college’s alumni from across the country.

“I think it’s great he has come in with such energy, enthusiasm and a sense of purpose,” said Bob Brown, a 1977 College of Pharmacy graduate.

During the past several months, alumni in South Texas, Longview, Dallas and the Greater Houston areas have hosted regional receptions in Ohia’s honor. They are rallying around the dean’s belief that the creation of a high-tech learning environment, with state-of-the-art equipment, will better enable students to be the best providers of pharmaceutical care on a global scale.

“One of my top priorities is to centralize the U of H College of Pharmacy in one building located within the Texas Medical Center,” said Ohia.

The College of Pharmacy is planning a homecoming for its alumni this fall, at which time the college’s building campaign will be formally outlined.

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©2006 Texas Medical Center

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