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Southern Illinois University Edwardsville School of Pharmacy’s (SOP) Lakesha Butler, PharmD, has received the Distinguished Achievement Award in Pharmacy Service from the American Pharmacists Association (APhA).

Butler serves as the SOP’s inaugural director of diversity, equity and inclusion. She is committed to bringing about necessary changes in diversity, equity, inclusion and anti-racism (DEIA), as well as health literacy and leadership development.

“I aspire to see my work and service have a lasting, transformational impact on not only individuals but also on institutions, organizations and policies, leaving this world better than I found it,” she said.

The APhA Awards and Honors Program is the most comprehensive recognition program in the pharmacy profession. The Distinguished Service Award underscores Butler’s outstanding performance in pharmacy practice.

Together with other professionals of the APhA and the American Association of Colleges of Pharmacy (AACP), Butler helped lead the incorporation of DEIA into the Oath of the Pharmacist. She has also led 14 national pharmacy organizations in combatting and eliminating racial injustice. And, Butler was the sole pharmacist serving alongside seven physicians on a national commission vetting COVID-19 vaccines.

“I believe my broad impact, that has transcended to various national platforms in pharmacy and beyond, has resulted in tangible and measurable change in various capacities of pharmacy,” she shared.

“Being recognized by the largest national pharmacy organization and for what I believe is my calling, to serve others, is a tremendous honor,” Butler added. “I was surprised, excited and grateful to receive this award. I don’t do what I do for the accolades and awards but as a minoritized woman it is gratifying to be esteemed for my efforts.”

Butler was recognized at the March AphA 2022 Annual Meeting held in San Antonio, Texas.

Photo: Lakesha Butler, PharmD.