#United States #Washington #APhA Foundation #Metta Lou Henderson #Jacob W. Miller Award

APhA Foundation Announcements: The 2026 Award Recipients

On January 12, 2026, the American Pharmacists Association (APhA) Foundation proudly announced that Dr. Metta Lou Henderson is the recipient of the coveted Zada Cooper Leadership Medal Award. In addition, Steve Simenson, an esteemed figure in the pharmacy community, has been named the recipient of the Jacob W. Miller Award for 2026. This recognition embodies their exemplary contributions to the profession, marking a significant milestone for both the recipients and the APhA Foundation.

The Zada Cooper Leadership Medal

The Zada Cooper Leadership Medal is presented to an individual who has demonstrated exceptional leadership and mentorship throughout their career in pharmacy. Dr. Henderson, who is well-regarded in pharmacy education, will also be presenting the Domer Lecture at the upcoming Women in Pharmacy Leadership Development Forum. Her commitment to fostering future leaders in pharmacy is rooted in her admiration for Zada Cooper herself, an influential woman in the profession. Henderson reflected on this connection, stating, _“Over the years, I have researched her life and found so many aspects of what she accomplished when she was one of only a few women pharmacists. I decided that she would become my role model, and I have attempted to do so.”_

Dr. Henderson's impressive career spans numerous leadership roles in both pharmacy education and organizations. She holds the title of professor emerita at Ohio Northern University and has served as both the APhA honorary president and the grand president of Kappa Epsilon Fraternity. Additionally, her accolades include the APhA Gloria Niemeyer Francke Leadership Mentor Award, affirming her legacy in empowering women in pharmacy.

The Jacob W. Miller Award

Steve Simenson's receipt of the Jacob W. Miller Award marks him as the 26th recipient since the award was established. This prestigious recognition is granted to individuals who have significantly advanced the mission of the APhA Foundation through their involvement in innovation, research, and philanthropy. Expressing his gratitude, Simenson shared, _“The APhA Foundation has served as a catalyst, incubator, and steadfast partner throughout my pharmacy career, continuously opening doors for professional growth, networking, and opportunities to make a meaningful impact on both myself and those around me.”_

Simenson currently serves as the CEO of Goodrich Pharmacy Inc. His dedication has remained exemplified through his active involvement in the foundation's project IMPACT, and he has a notable history serving on the APhA Foundation Board of Directors for six years, including two terms as foundation president. His leadership in these roles highlights his commitment to the pharmacy community and the impact he seeks to create.

Upcoming Celebrations

Both distinguished individuals will be celebrated during the 2026 APhA Annual Meeting & Exposition, scheduled from March 27 to 30, 2026, in the vibrant city of Los Angeles. This event represents not only a recognition of their achievements but also an opportunity for the pharmacy community to come together, share ideas, and pave the way for future innovations in the field.

As the APhA Foundation continues to emphasize the importance of leadership and community in pharmacy, the accolades given to Henderson and Simenson reflect a growing recognition of the vital role that mentorship and innovation play in advancing the profession. Their achievements serve as an inspiration for aspiring professionals and the enduring legacy of leaders within the pharmacy community.