Letter from President Richard J. Lessard

Fall 2022

Dear Student,

Welcome to the 2022-2023 academic year. At Massachusetts College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences (MCPHS), you are part of an incredible Community that is committed to nurturing and supporting you. I invite you to engage with our faculty and staff as well as your peers to shape an exciting and rewarding educational journey.

This is a remarkable moment to be at MCPHS. We are celebrating our bicentennial, building on our rich history as we bring to life a strategic plan that will carry us into the future. In 1823, our founders set out to improve the quality of medicines for the public by developing standard practices and training for apothecaries. They could picture a better future for patients.

Our institution evolved over the next 200 years as community members from many different backgrounds identified new opportunities to serve patients and society. But one thing remained constant: We have always nurtured healthcare visionaries. We are committed to helping our students meet their personal and professional goals. And we are proud that our graduates are building a healthier world.

As you plan your year, I encourage you to explore the full range of opportunities at MCPHS. Our dedicated faculty members look forward to engaging with you through the standard curriculum. But I challenge you to think beyond degree requirements.

For example, consider taking full advantage of the unique environment at MCPHS by attending interprofessional events and having conversations with students outside of your program. Our focus on the health sciences translates into campuses brimming with individuals pursuing various paths to serve patients and promote health. Dialogue across disciplines will position you well for a career in team-based healthcare.

We also offer experiential learning that builds on the standard curriculum. Hone your skills in settings that will give you a chance to interact with patients or professionals in your future line of work. For example, we have collaborations with life sciences companies that can open the door to an internship.

Consider connecting with faculty to use our cutting-edge labs. Many students pursue research projects while at MCPHS. Keep in mind that our faculty and staff are here for you. Lean on faculty advisors, academic coaches, counselors, and other team members for support. Whatever your goals, we can help set you up for success.

We are grateful to our students—from more than 50 U.S. states and territories and 90 countries—for making this such a vibrant place to learn and grow. The world needs new ideas and change-makers to address pressing challenges in healthcare. We need you.

Sincerely,

Richard J. Lessard, President