Dr. Nakoasha R. Graham PIONEERING HEALTH ADVOCACY AND COMMUNITY CARE

Dr. Nakoasha R. Graham, a notable alumna of Albany Technical College, embodies the spirit of dedication and service. Her educational journey, which began in Albany Technical College's Pharmacy Technology program, provided a solid foundation that propelled her towards achieving her Doctor of Pharmacy (PharmD) and Master of Public Health (MPH) degrees.

"Albany Tech was where I first learned the importance of precision and patient care in pharmacy practice. The hands-on training and supportive instructors were pivotal, setting me on a path to advocating for underrepresented communities," reflects Dr. Graham. Her career trajectory since then is a testament to her commitment and passion.

Dr. Graham brings extensive expertise to patient advocacy and community health, with a robust background spanning over 8 years. Her experience includes the development and launching of outpatient disease management clinics, aimed at enhancing patient care outside of hospital settings. Additionally, she has played a significant role in implementing clinical workflow processes for pharmacies across different therapeutic areas. Her tenure at Albany Area Primary Health Care (AAPHC) as an HIV/AIDS Community Navigator and Linkage Coordinator further demonstrates her commitment to addressing health disparities within the community. In collaboration with healthcare professionals and community stakeholders, she helped launched southwest Georgia’s first PrEP (Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis) program aimed to prevent HIV transmission by providing access to preventive medication for individuals at high risk. These efforts not only addressed a critical public health need in the region, but also empowered individuals with the tools and resources to protect their health.

Dr. Graham has held other significant roles that have made a substantial impact on community health. As an Ambulatory Care pharmacist at In-Clinic Rx and later as an HIV Clinical Pharmacist with AIDS Healthcare Foundation (AHF), she contributed directly to the care and treatment of patients, particularly those affected by chronic diseases and HIV/AIDS. Her skills in Medication Therapy Management (MTM), public speaking and strategic planning are notable and have been endorsed multiple times by her peers in the field.

The story of Dr. Nakoasha R. Graham is not just about her professional achievements but also her role as a leader and advocate for positive, impactful patient care. As she continues to seek connections within the pharmaceutical industry, her story is an inspiration for current students and alumni of Albany Technical College proving that with passion, perseverance, and staying true to who you are, one can change the world.

For those looking to follow in her footsteps, Dr. Graham offers this advice: "Stay committed to your education and seize every opportunity to learn and grow. The journey of the chosen is never easy, but incredibly rewarding when you're driven by a mission to serve and advocate."

Pharmacy Technology Program

JANEE MOBLEY

Program Chair/Instructor Pharmacy Technology

(229) 430-3596 jmobley@albanytech.edu