Faith Oliver Appointed Independent Pharmacy Practice Advancement Fellow
LEXINGTON, Ky. (June 3, 2025) — The University of Kentucky College of Pharmacy (UKCOP) is pleased to announce the appointment of Faith Oliver, PharmD, as the inaugural Independent Pharmacy Practice Advancement Fellow. This fellowship, offered through a unique partnership between UKCOP’s Center for the Advancement of Pharmacy Practice (CAPP) and American Pharmacy Cooperative, Inc. (APCI) Foundation for Education and Research, is designed to train pharmacists committed to advancing independent practice through research and advanced patient care services.
Originally from Puxico, Missouri, Oliver is strongly dedicated to community-focused healthcare. She recently earned her Doctor of Pharmacy degree from the St. Louis College of Pharmacy, where she focused primarily on community pharmacy. Although her training included experiences in both independent and hospital settings, Oliver consistently found herself drawn to the deep patient connections and personalized care offered in independent practice.
“I’ve always had a passion for serving close-knit communities,” said Oliver. “This fellowship felt like a natural next step—it aligns with my professional goals and allows me to grow under mentors who are truly invested in the future of pharmacy.”
Throughout pharmacy school, Oliver held multiple leadership roles and participated in advocacy initiatives aimed at elevating the profession. Her drive to create meaningful change within the field is matched by her desire to own and operate a patient-centered independent pharmacy one day.
“What drew me most to this position was its unique balance of hands-on operational experience and involvement in broader efforts like policy, innovation, research and advocacy,” Oliver explained. “The collaboration between Poole’s Pharmacy, APCI, and UKCOP creates an incredibly well-rounded experience that’s hard to find elsewhere.”
In her role, Oliver will contribute to UKCOP through research projects, mentorship opportunities, and resource development. She also plans to be actively involved with APCI, supporting member pharmacies, engaging in innovative pilot programs and independent pharmacy at both state and national levels.
"Dr. Oliver represents the next generation of leaders in independent pharmacy, and we are proud to support her journey," said Cathy Hanna, PharmD, executive director of APCI Foundation and Research. "Her passion for community care and her commitment to advancing the profession align perfectly with APCI’s mission. We look forward to seeing the impact she will make—not only within our organization but across the broader landscape of pharmacy practice."
“I see my interactions with UKCOP and APCI as a two-way street,” she said. “I’m excited to share my energy and perspective as a new graduate, while learning from two organizations at the forefront of pharmacy practice.”
When asked what she hopes to gain from the fellowship, Oliver emphasized her passion for driving progress in pharmacy. “I’m incredibly passionate about expanding access to care and elevating the pharmacist’s role in healthcare. This fellowship will give me the skills and platform to do that.”
In her free time, Oliver enjoys exploring the outdoors, discovering new coffee shops, and spending time with her family, friends, and her cat, Munchkin. She is also recently engaged and enjoying the exciting and busy journey of planning a wedding.