On this start of a new year, a pivotal one at that, it is inspiring to reflect on the diversity of the alumni, students and faculty that make up our Bison family. We are reminded of the many associations and influences that percolate our common connections, helping us to imagine and deliver a common future.

This is particularly striking when we see Bison from nations, large and small, gathering in the hallowed halls of our College, for a common purpose—to become the world’s best pharmacy professionals. The blending of the individual traditions, whether from the Americas, North and South, the African Continent or the Middle and Far East, and Europe serves to make us stronger, individually and collectively, by providing the ingredients needed for social, political, economic, and professional resilience.

The COVID-19 Pandemic has shown us that our profession holds a special place, and we have a unique responsibility to lead when many are unable. Our lives are living testaments of the opportunities that a Bison Pharmacy education has afforded. We have met, worked with, and influenced pharmacy practice in many parts of the world knowing that our Bison family is there to support us. Technology has allowed our Bison family to stay connected in spite of being in the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic and to continue delivering a world class education, while supporting the communities in which we serve.

Looking to the future, this connectivity means we are also aware, perhaps as never before, that wherever we live, our choices and actions affect the well-being of people and communities living near and in very different circumstances. For many, this awareness awakens a desire to employ our shared drive and resources with greater care. It is encouraging to see the alumni of this College continue to devise new ways of working together to achieve prosperity, whilst protecting our heritage.

As members of this very special community, in this New Year, I hope that faculty, students, and alumni alike will be inspired by all that we share and move forward with fresh resolve to enhance the College’s influence for good in our world.

I wish you a prosperous 2021 and look forward to engaging you as we strengthen our alma mater.

– Dr. Earl Etienne