Advancing Patient Care in Pharmacy and Technology

 by Hannah Robison

As December graduation approaches this week, many students are completing exams, packing up their dorm rooms and preparing for a much-anticipated break. Among the merriment of the holidays and enjoying time with family and friends, returning upperclassmen may also be considering their future careers.

Hannah Ferguson (Pharm.D., M.S. ’23) finished her undergraduate experience at Harding and knew the natural fit to continue her education was pursuing a Doctor of Pharmacy. She also completed a Master of Science in information systems so she’d be prepared to navigate the continuing advancements in health care technology. 

​Ferguson is now a pharmacy specialist for drug diversion at University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences in Little Rock, Arkansas, where she oversees the daily operations of the diversion prevention team and supports regulatory compliance efforts across the institution. At Harding, she was prepared not only academically but also spiritually, professionally and personally. Through this growth, she continues to embody the values of an exemplary pharmacist and professional, focusing on patient care, precision and safety.

“I use my MSIS degree almost every day by analyzing data, creating quality improvement initiatives and driving workflows that directly impact patient care,” Ferguson said. “It has really benefitted me professionally and has been a huge reason why I am in my current role”

Support from faculty and staff, small class sizes and a curated experience helped Ferguson feel valued and cared for on a personal level. The relationships helped carry her through the challenges of pharmacy school, and the connections she formed continue to encourage and inspire her today. 

“The best part of being a pharmacist is the opportunity to serve others and positively impact their lives,” Ferguson said. “When people are sick or facing difficult circumstances, being able to support them, even in small ways, is incredibly rewarding. I also love being a trusted resource for my family, friends and community.”

For those interested in pharmacy school or learning more about what Harding has to offer, Ferguson shared, “If you want to serve others and have a meaningful career, pharmacy is the right choice for you. There are countless unique career paths, and the profession offers tremendous flexibility and adaptability. While it is a challenging field, it is very rewarding, and you get to see firsthand how much of a difference you can make in people’s lives.”

Learn more about the College of Pharmacy at harding.edu/pharmacy.

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