The University of South Carolina College of Pharmacy welcomed 92 new pharmacists to the profession during its annual Convocation and Doctoral Hooding ceremony for the Class of 2025. The college also awarded a Doctor of Pharmaceutical Sciences degree and a Master of Pharmaceutical Sciences degree.
The ceremony highlighted the accomplishments of graduating students and recognized distinguished alumni for their field contributions. Dean Stephen J. Cutler presented the Outstanding Alumni Award to Maribeth Kowalski, '95, the Outstanding Young Alumni Award to Kayce Shealy, '09, and the Outstanding Friend of the College Award to Jody Chastain, CEO of Ritedose.
While graduation may symbolize the closing of a chapter on your time at the College of Pharmacy and USC, it's not the final page ...
In her keynote address, Kowalski offered perspective on the significance of the milestone while emphasizing that graduation marks a transition rather than an endpoint.
"While graduation may symbolize the closing of a chapter on your time at the College of Pharmacy and USC, it's not the final page. It is a pause in your story – a moment to reflect before turning the pages to what comes next," she noted. "Beyond the science, beyond the textbooks, lies the beating heart of pharmacy: people. Individuals and families who will rely on your research, your knowledge, your guidance, and your compassion. Patients who will see you not just as providers, but as trusted partners in their health."
Kowalski emphasized that regardless of their chosen path – whether in community pharmacy, hospital settings, research, academia, or public health – graduates have "the power to be a force for positive change."
In his charge to the graduates, Dean Cutler reminded the new pharmacists that they are entering one of health care's most trusted professions.
"You are ready. You possess the knowledge to save and improve lives. You are innovative problem solvers, compassionate communicators, and collaborative team leaders prepared to deliver truly personalized care," he said. "Remember that behind every prescription is a person, and in your hands lies not just their therapy, but their hope for healing. Practice with precision, advocate with empathy, and never stop learning."
Relive the celebration: Watch the full video of the Doctoral Hooding Ceremony on our YouTube channel. Visit our album to view and download photos from the event.
Topics: Pharm.D. Program, Student Experience, Alumni