ASHP Appoints Samuel Calabrese as New CEO and Executive Vice President

ASHP Appoints New Leader

The American Society of Health-System Pharmacists (ASHP) has made a significant leadership decision by naming Samuel V. Calabrese as its new Executive Vice President and CEO. This appointment marks a pivotal moment in the organization's 84-year history as Calabrese prepares to succeed the beloved former CEO, Paul W. Abramowitz, who retired earlier this year.

Effective May 1, 2026, Calabrese will take the helm as the fifth CEO in ASHP's comprehensive history, an organization dedicated to promoting excellence in pharmacy practice and enhancing patient care across various healthcare settings. The Board of Directors expressed confidence in Calabrese's ability to lead ASHP into a new era of growth and innovation.

Calabrese is no stranger to the intricate world of health-system pharmacy. With decades of experience under his belt, he brings a wealth of knowledge from his previous role as the Vice President of ASHP's Office of Accreditation Services, where he managed the accreditation of over 3,000 pharmacy residency and 250 technician training programs across the country. His robust background positions him as a strategic leader capable of navigating the complexities of modern pharmacy practice.

Prior to his tenure at ASHP, Calabrese spent 25 years within the Cleveland Clinic Health System, holding various senior leadership roles. His journey within this prestigious institution began as an executive chief pharmacy officer and progressed through key positions, culminating in a comprehensive understanding of pharmacy operations and administration. Furthermore, Calabrese's involvement in training future pharmacy professionals highlights his commitment to enhancing education and professional development within the field.

ASHP President Melanie Dodd emphasized the excitement surrounding Calabrese's appointment, stating, "Sam is an exceptional leader. His deep experience in hospital and health-system pharmacy, commitment to supporting our pharmacy workforce, and unwavering dedication to ASHP's mission uniquely position him to lead the organization and guide ASHP into its next chapter of growth and impact on advancing the pharmacy profession and patient care."

In his own words, Calabrese expressed gratitude for the new opportunity, stating, "I am honored to become ASHP's CEO at this pivotal time for the pharmacy workforce and patient care. ASHP has profoundly shaped my career and the profession, and I am so grateful for the opportunity to serve our 65,000 members in this new capacity as we advance our shared mission and shape pharmacy's future."

Calabrese has an impressive record of service to the ASHP community. He has served on numerous influential committees, contributing significantly as a past president of both the Cleveland Society of Health-System Pharmacists and the Ohio Society of Health-System Pharmacists. His leadership roles within the ASHP's Section of Pharmacy Practice Leaders and his academic contributions, such as teaching at the ASHP Foundation's Pharmacy Leadership Academy, reflect an unwavering dedication to fostering growth and excellence in pharmacy.

With a bachelor's degree in pharmacy from the Philadelphia College of Pharmacy and Science and an MBA from Cleveland State University, along with a certification in executive coaching, Calabrese's educational background supports his strategic vision for ASHP's future.

This new chapter for ASHP comes at a time when the healthcare landscape is constantly evolving, and an empowered pharmacy workforce is essential for optimal patient care outcomes. As the organization transitions into this new leadership era, the potential for innovation, advocacy, and enhanced pharmacy practice is palpable. The Board of Directors thanked Douglas Scheckelhoff for his invaluable service as interim CEO during the transition period.

In conclusion, ASHP is poised for an exciting journey ahead under Calabrese's leadership, with a focus on advancing the pharmacy profession, improving patient care, and enhancing the resources available for its members. This change signifies a strong commitment to evolving with the times and supporting pharmacy professionals throughout their careers, ensuring they are equipped to meet the challenges of the future. For more information on ASHP and its initiatives, explore their official websites.