Faculty Spotlight

Program Chairs Named

Three faculty members have been named chairs of their respective programs. “These individuals all have a passion for educating students and for their professions,” said CPHS Dean Michael L. Adams. “They are proven leaders who embody the mission and values of CPHS. Their dedication and service is greatly appreciated, and I congratulate them on their new roles.”

DR. CHARLES CARTER

Department of Pharmaceutical & Clinical Sciences

On January 1, 2022, the Departments of Clinical Research and Pharmaceutical Sciences merged into a single department called the Department of Pharmaceutical & Clinical Sciences (PCS). Dr. Charles A. Carter served as the interim chair, helping launch and lead the initial transition phase. On July 1, 2022, he was appointed as the new department chair.

Originally from Kenmore, NY, Carter moved to North Carolina in 1996. He completed his Bachelor of Science from State University of New York Buffalo, Doctor of Pharmacy from University of Tennessee Center for Health Sciences, and Master of Business Administration from Christian Brothers University. He also completed a residency in Bioinformatics and Drug Information and a Fellowship in Research Design Methodology. Carter joined the Campbell University family in August 2015. His initial appointment was as an associate professor in the Department of Clinical Research. He has taught in the Bachelor of Science in Clinical Research (BSCR), Master of Science in Clinical Research (MSCR), Doctor of Pharmacy (PharmD) curricula, as well as Interprofessional Education classes and courses. In addition to his teaching responsibilities, Carter mentors and advises students on their educational and post-graduate journeys. He also advises student-led organizations on campus including the Graduate Clinical Research Organization (GCRO), Industry Pharmacists Association (IPHO), and Kappa Psi Pharmaceutical Fraternity.

Prior to joining CPHS, Carter served as the Executive Director, Medical Affairs of Salix Pharmaceuticals, Inc. in Raleigh, North Carolina from 2012 to 2015. From 1994 to 2012, he founded and operated Pharmaceutical Strategic Initiatives, LLC and focused his energies on the company’s vision and services. Pharmaceutical Strategic Initiatives was a leading provider of strategic consulting, clinical research design and strategy, regulatory preparation, medical and scientific content creation, health outcomes research, key opinion leader and advocacy development. Clients of Pharmaceutical Strategic Initiatives included 28 pharmaceutical and medical device companies.

Carter formerly served as the Director of Research and Clinical Services at National Pharmacotherapy Institute located in Memphis, Tennessee. He has served as an investigator in more than 30 Phase 3, Phase 4, and health economics and outcomes research studies.

Dr. Scott Asbill, associate dean of Academic Affairs, professor of Pharmaceutics, and senior chair search committee member, shared, “Dr. Carter embodies the mission and spirit of Campbell University. He served as the interim chair for approximately six months and did a tremendous job moving the department forward.”

Carter possesses a servant attitude and aspires to demonstrate that to those he encounters. When asked why he accepted the chair position he said, “I feel called to serve, so I’m serving.” Carter loves working at Campbell and is excited about his new responsibilities and the merging of departments.

DR. BETH MILLS

Department of Pharmacy Practice Mills’ experiences teaching students in the classroom and on rotations, training residents, and mentoring faculty as well as her personal experiences with Campbell University make her a great fit as chair of Pharmacy Practice. She is excited to take on this role where she can serve the profession in a different capacity, shaping faculty, residents, and students so they can have a meaningful impact on the future of our program.

Originally from North Carolina, Mills attended Campbell’s pre-pharmacy program in 1992 and graduated from Campbell’s Doctor of Pharmacy program in 1998. Upon graduating, she completed a primary care residency with a diabetes focus at Wilson Community Health Center and Campbell University. During her residency, she developed a love for teaching and mentoring students. Shortly after she completed her residency, Mills stayed connected to Campbell serving as an adjunct assistant professor and as a member of the experiential programs advisory committee.

Throughout her entire career, she has been involved in teaching, precepting and mentoring pharmacy students. “I never lost my strong commitment to student success through trying to nurture the next round of pharmacists and giving back to the profession,” said Mills. “I always stayed very closely tied to Campbell.” Mills was offered an opportunity in 2013 to return to campus as faculty.

Mills holds a strong desire to improve and support the pharmacy profession in whatever capacity she can. After being a member of the North Carolina Association of Pharmacists (NCAP), serving on committees, special task forces, and serving as a member-at-large on the Board of Directors, becoming president of NCAP was the logical next step. Mills completed her presidential term in December 2021. During this time, her focus was on advocating for the profession and workforce issues plaguing pharmacies. “It’s our profession. If we do not advocate for our profession, who will?” she inquired.

She is a Board Certified Ambulatory Care Pharmacist, Certified Diabetes Educator, and served on inpatient and outpatient interprofessional healthcare teams. Her array of clinical experiences will benefit interprofessional collaborations with other CPHS programs, allowing Mills to continue advocating for the pharmacy profession and overall health of patients.

Mills assumed her new responsibilities on July 1, 2022. One of her primary goals is to implement strategies to ensure the continued success of CPHS students in passing the NAPLEX and obtaining post-graduate training in residencies and fellowships. Mills hopes to create more student advising opportunities and provide additional faculty support and development. She will focus on holistic enrichment for department and student needs in hopes of elevating the program.

“I am honored to be given this opportunity to work more closely with the incredible faculty and staff to implement ideas to help overcome many challenges facing our profession and academia. I want the best for our students and faculty and am willing to do whatever it takes to maintain the high caliber of our program,” Mills concluded. DR. BRADLEY MYERS

Department of Physical Therapy After receiving his bachelor’s degree in Health Fitness in Preventive and Rehabilitative Programs from Central Michigan University, Myers pursued a Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) from Duke University, and a Doctor of Science in Orthopaedic Manual Physical Therapy from Andrews University. He is recognized as a Fellow of the American Academy of Orthopaedic Manual Physical Therapists (AAOMPT) and is Board Certified Specialist in Orthopaedic Physical Therapy.

Myers’ clinical experience includes the management of complex musculoskeletal dysfunctions throughout the body. His research interests include the appropriate application of manual therapy techniques with exercise interventions within orthopaedic dysfunctions, and the identification of motor control dysfunctions as a precursor/result of musculoskeletal impairments.

Myers joined the Campbell DPT program in 2017. His initial responsibilities included leading coursework in musculoskeletal/orthopedic physical therapy along with therapeutic exercise and clinical reasoning. He most recently served as an associate professor and interim chair/director for the DPT program. During the interim period, Myers was instrumental in leading the department in its preparations for the Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education (CAPTE) site visit. Dr. Scott Sawyer, assistant director of the Physical Therapy program, has been with the DPT program since 2013. Sawyer works closely with Myers and noted, “Dr. Myers has a unique ability to look at physical therapy education and view how our DPT department can meet the demands of the physical therapy profession.” Sawyer continued by stating that he and the rest of the department are confident in Myers’ ability to grow the program and increase its name recognition across the country.

Dr. Wesley Rich, associate dean for Health Sciences and chair of the DPT chair search committee shared, “We are very excited that Dr. Myers is assuming this crucial leadership role in the College! He has been instrumental in developing and maintaining a rigorous curriculum for the DPT program. Dr. Myers is highly regarded for his clinical expertise as well as his dynamic and engaging classroom style. He has demonstrated a strong commitment to faculty development, acting as a mentor among his colleagues and has articulated an innovative, ambitious, and exciting vision for the future of DPT education both nationally and here at Campbell University. Dr. Myers embodies the mission of Campbell University in leadership and service, and we are grateful that he has chosen to live out his calling here with us in the College of Pharmacy & Health Sciences!” 

New Associate Dean for Administration leaves Arkansas to join the Campbell family

On July 15, 2022, DR. JEFFREY MERCER began his appointment as the associate dean for Administration and associate professor of Pharmacy Practice. Mercer believes Campbell University brings possibilities for growth and change. He is excited about all of the opportunities at hand.

Originally from Huntsville, Alabama, Mercer attended Auburn University and received his Bachelor of Science degree in 1999 and his Doctor of Pharmacy degree in 2000. He has formal leadership training and is active in several professional organizations. He also contributes to the larger academic pharmacy academy as a site visitor for the Accreditation Council for Pharmacy Education.

When asked why he chose to come to Campbell, Mercer shared that he was intrigued at how the College of Pharmacy & Health Sciences (CPHS) had folded smaller programs into a larger entity, and how programs were cohesively functioning together. “I am excited to be part of a large and inclusive college that offers the opportunity to work with so many health science programs. The work itself lends to what I enjoy-working with people, budgeting, and the HR side of things. I recognize the importance of being fiscally responsible and also look forward to working with University Advancement in this role at Campbell,” Mercer elaborated.

Prior to coming to CPHS, Mercer was an associate professor of Pharmacy Practice and Dean of the Harding University College of Pharmacy in Searcy, Arkansas. He was part of the leadership team that established the pharmacy program (circa 2007) and has served in numerous administrative and leadership capacities in his more than 15 years of academic service.

Mercer has taught various pharmacy courses and acted as a preceptor for students during the last 15 years. He has been a part of general editorials and publications and sat on numerous board of directors for different associations. He was also heavily involved in his church, prior to moving to North Carolina. He previously served in various pharmacy practice and leadership roles with Publix Supermarkets, Inc. As a district supervisor, he was trusted to develop and expand the Publix Pharmacy brand into new territories, including Alabama and Tennessee. He enjoyed advocating for and making a difference in patients’ lives. “Positions don’t energize me, people do!” Mercer shared.

CPHS Dean Michael L. Adams noted, “Dr. Mercer brings significant expertise in education administration and leadership that have prepared him for this critical leadership position in the College. I have no doubt that he will be a valuable asset to the College of Pharmacy & Health Sciences and to Campbell University.”

Mercer and his family want to be a part of Campbell’s future. He is married to Emmie Mercer, who teaches information systems in Harding’s College of Business. Together, they have three sons – Jeffrey (19), Levi (17), and Anderson (14). When not at work, you can usually find him attending one of his son’s sporting events or somewhere on a mountain stream fly fishing. 

From Clinic to Classroom: charter PA faculty member, Laura Gerstner, promoted to Associate Program Director

The College of Pharmacy & Health Sciences (CPHS) strives to prepare students to excel in the ever-expanding world of healthcare. Many CPHS educators come from a clinical background, which provides students with a unique correlation between classroom content and actual practice. This was no different for LAURA GERSTNER who joined the Campbell University family in 2010 as the clinical coordinator for the newly approved Master of Physician Assistant Practice (MPAP) program.

During her first year in Buies Creek, Gerstner helped develop and build the MPAP program and curriculum. One of her primary responsibilities as clinical coordinator was to secure clinical sites for student rotations. She walked alongside the charter class as they began their educational journey in 2011, and in 2013 she proudly watched them graduate. She has since supported, taught, and watched more than 400 PA students graduate.

Gerstner served as the director of Clinical Education for the PA program for the past twelve years where she oversaw every aspect of clinical education. The once 28-month curriculum shifted to 24-months when Campbell University’s School of Medicine (CUSOM) opened. This allowed the PA and Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine (DO) students to share clinical schedules and experiences, reinforcing Campbell’s interprofessional approach.

“Laura Gerstner is a critical member of the PA leadership team,” said PA program Chair and Director Betty Lynne W. Johnson. “I am so pleased to have Laura as the new Associate Program Director. She has graciously agreed to serve in this role, which is particularly important as we are facing the daunting tasks of our ten-year ARC-PA reaccreditation and site visit. Her support in this regard will be immensely valuable!” Johnson noted.

We are hugely indebted to her dedicated service, and I’m blessed to call her colleague and friend. — Betty Lynne W. Johnson

Dean of the College of Pharmacy & Health Sciences Michael L. Adams (’96 PharmD, PhD) shared, “Laura Gerstner has been a consistent presence in the PA program from its earliest days and expanding her leadership into the associate program director position will allow her to expand her many contributions the program’s success. I have always appreciated Laura’s views and look forward to working with her in this new role.”

While her roles and responsibilities at Campbell have shifted over the years, Gerstner’s love and passion for holistic student development and education have only increased. The PA student organization, Wallace Student Society (WSS), was blessed to have Gerstner as their advisor for seven years. While she still assists with some planning, Gerstner has passed the baton to a member of the charter

class, ASHLEY NORDAN (’13 MPAP/MSCR).

“After graduating, I continued to be involved in the PA program and precepted PA students, so Laura and I never really lost touch. In fact, she recruited me back to Campbell as faculty! Over the past three years, Laura has continued to be a mentor during my transition from clinical practice to fulltime academia, and I have been lucky to have her guidance and wisdom along the way,” Nordan shared.

“It’s been incredible to watch this program develop from a sketch on a sheet of paper to everything we’ve built. The most rewarding aspect of my time at Campbell has been hearing from alumni via email or text when they want to share accomplishments. Seeing them as a patient, or provider, has been fun! We even have three alumni who are now CPHS PA faculty. It’s been an honor to watch them grow from student to colleague as they begin teaching the next generation,” Gerstner concluded. 

I really enjoy being able to pour into faculty and help develop proper onboarding, support, and mentorship. — Laura Gerstner

Retirement: Dr. Jim Boyd

After 32 years of faithful service, Dr. James “Jim” A. Boyd retired from the College of Pharmacy & Health Sciences (CPHS) on March 31, 2022. Boyd has held a variety of roles during his time at Campbell and most recently served as associate dean for Administration and professor of Pharmacy Practice.

Boyd completed his BS in pharmacy in 1977 followed by his PharmD in 1980 from the University of Nebraska Medical Center. He was in the second to last class to graduate with a BS in pharmacy before the school transitioned to an all PharmD program.

Shortly after starting his career as a pharmacist and then pharmacy manager, Boyd realized his need for additional business education. After advancing to director of pharmacies at Mercy Health Systems in Omaha, Nebraska, he enrolled in the MBA program at the University of Nebraska and completed his MBA in 1987. Afterward, he began teaching at Creighton University.

Boyd joined the Campbell family in January 1990 as an assistant professor of Pharmacy Practice. His initial teaching responsibilities included pharmacy administrative offerings and geriatrics. As the program developed, he focused his teaching on pharmacy law and management.

Boyd was born and raised in Nebraska. When asked why he chose to move 1,400 miles away from his home, family, and the life he knew, he shared that Campbell’s Christian mission is what sparked his family’s desire to move to Buies Creek. During his initial interview with former CPHS Dean, Dr. Ronald M. Maddox, Boyd told Maddox he would stay for a minimum of three years, but no more than six. Boyd laughed when he shared how matter of fact his younger self had been by sharing, “and here we are, 32 years later…”

Maddox took note of Boyd’s positive outlook on life early on in their working relationship. “I was always impressed by Dr. Boyd's dedication to his profession and work ethic. He also impressed me as a committed father, husband, and Christian, providing an excellent role model for our students. Dr. Boyd is known for having a smile on his face and his willingness to serve on committees and outreach activities. Last but not least, I'm pleased to call Dr. James Boyd my friend,” Maddox remarked. In cooperation with the Lundy Fetterman School of Business, one of Boyd’s early responsibilities at Campbell was to develop a dual PharmD/MBA program. The program was launched in 1991 and Boyd continued to serve as the founding director. In 1991, at a national meeting and unbeknownst to one another, Campbell and the University of Southern California unveiled their intent to offer a dual degree program. Both schools share being the first to offer a dual pharmacy/business degree.

Alumnus Ron Smith (’98 PharmD/MBA) first met Boyd when he was applying to the newly established PharmD/MBA program. “Dr. Boyd was instrumental in helping me navigate the challenges of completing both degrees on time. He was a great sounding board as I pursued nontraditional pharmacy career options such as health insurance, which at the time seemed like heresy to many of my fellow classmates and my wife. If it had not been for Dr. Boyd’s wise counsel and genuine caring nature, I'm confident that I would not have taken the necessary risks that provided me such a great career. I will forever be grateful and wish him the very best in the next chapter,” Smith shared.

Boyd has been a Godly influence, mentor, and friend to many students, faculty, and staff over the years! Dr. Larry Swanson, former chairman of Pharmacy Practice, shared, “He (Boyd) was invaluable to me, especially early on, in navigating the Campbell culture and giving me advice on several important decisions that were made within the Department. He filled an important niche in our curriculum teaching the required jurisprudence and management courses. During my time as Chairman, our students performed exceptionally well on the pharmacy jurisprudence exam. Jim always maintained a strong Christian testimony.” Swanson and Boyd worked alongside one another for more than 20 years. Robert McMahan (’00 PharmD) met

Boyd during his first year at Campbell in the fall of 1996. Boyd was McMahan’s advisor. “Dr. Boyd has always been available to serve as a sounding board and to provide wise counsel. That is something that I have always appreciated about him. I think that he has always seen me as the person that I could be and not just the student that I was when he met me. That has been amazing to see and to experience,” McMahan related.

During his time at Campbell, Boyd has held the title Director of Medical Missions. He advocated for this program and initially worked with the board of pharmacy to ensure clerkship credit would be available to students during their P4 year. He has spent years coordinating opportunities for students to go and serve in numerous countries and clinical settings.

In 2002 Boyd started working with a group of pharmacy owners to coordinate and lead an owner’s accountability group. Boyd helped create and alter business plans, budgets, marketing plans, operations, and lend overall accountability to pharmacies across the United States.

He and a team of pharmacists would visit stores periodically. After each meeting, store owners were left with two action items of improvement. If these were not accomplished by the next visit, the store would be fined. This endeavor led to invaluable teaching content for class material and even student participation in store visits. It also strengthened the pharmacies by creating a network of support and accountability. Boyd shared, “the stores that participated were some of the top performing pharmacies in the country.”

The relationships Boyd developed over the years have undoubtedly been the most special thing about his time at Campbell. Dr. Robert Cisneros (aka Dr. C), associate professor emeritus of Pharmacy Practice, met Boyd in 2003 when he interviewed for a faculty position at Campbell. Cisneros and Boyd shared side by side offices for sixteen years. “I came to know Jim as someone who has a strong Christian faith and who is devoted to his family. I feel very blessed to know Jim. He has been a good friend. In particular, I remember that there was one medical procedure I had put off getting for years. Jim helped convince me to have it done, drove me there, waited while it was being done, and drove me back home afterwards. What a friend. I wish Jim and all his family the very best,” Dr. C remarked.

Boyd is a nationally recognized scholar in pharmacy law with more than 30 publications that include journal articles, abstracts, and grants. He has made numerous professional presentations at local, state, and national meetings. In addition to his teaching and administrative responsibilities, Boyd has served on numerous University and College committees and has continued to serve the profession. Boyd has received numerous awards over the years, but “my most treasured is the CPHS Alumni Association Honorary Lifetime Membership.”

In his role as associate dean of Administration, Boyd has worn many hats to include but not limited to, managing the college’s budget, overseeing Alumni and Development, Communications and Marketing, and a staff transition group that helps identify strengths and areas of needs within the College. He has been instrumental in creating consistent policies and procedures and developing systems in a collaborative manner to include the entire College.

Buies Creek has changed since Boyd’s arrival. Streets were not numbered in the nineties; homes were simply called by the name of the first owner. The Boyd family lived on campus in the “Profit” house. Mr. Profit was the superintendent of Harnett County Public Schools and Mrs. Profit taught at Campbell College. Boyd used to walk his children to school in the morning and in the afternoon all of the faculty/staff children would play together on campus. “When I think back about my early days at Campbell, I think about the great community! I could walk home and have lunch with my wife. Faculty would go play basketball instead of going to lunch. We would even play against the students and we’d win-until we got old!” Boyd reminisced. The relationships are what he has cherished most.

Dr. Michael L. Adams, dean of the College of Pharmacy & Health Sciences, shared how much he has grown to value and understand Boyd’s insight and knowledge over the years. From a student/faculty relationship, to colleagues, to implementing ExamSoft side by side, “One thing is for sure, he will be missed by me and many others,” Adams commented.

Boyd has embodied the Campbell mission of helping to graduate students with exemplary academic and professional skills who are prepared for purposeful lives and meaningful service. Not only has he initiated and provided opportunities for students to serve in various capacities, but he has been an exemplary walking example of what it means to serve others and to love the Lord. To know him is to love him. Although he will temporarily aid in the transition of his responsibilities, his presence, wisdom, mentorship, Christian example, and overall positive spirit will be greatly missed.

Boyd has been married to his wife Susan since 1976. They have 5 children and 11 grandchildren. “It’s been an honor to grow with Campbell. I can’t image having had these experiences or relationships anywhere else. I’m looking forward to spending more time with my family, traveling, and continuing my hobby of making pottery,” Boyd concluded. 

Boyd has embodied the Campbell mission of helping to graduate students with exemplary academic and professional skills who are prepared for purposeful lives and meaningful service. Not only has he initiated and provided opportunities for students to serve in various capacities, but he has been an exemplary walking example of what it means to serve others and to love the Lord. To know him is to love him. Although he will temporarily aid in the transition of his responsibilities, his presence, wisdom, mentorship, Christian example, and overall positive spirit will be greatly missed.