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APhA Welcomes Melissa Somma McGivney as Chief of Professional and Member Experience

The American Pharmacists Association (APhA) is excited to announce the appointment of Melissa Somma McGivney, PharmD, FCCP, FAPhA, as their new Chief of Professional and Member Experience, effective June 1, 2026. In this newly established executive role, Dr. McGivney is set to spearhead efforts in the Professional Affairs, Education, and Practice Implementation teams, aiming to enhance and personalize the experience for all APhA members.

Dr. McGivney comes to APhA from the prestigious University of Pittsburgh School of Pharmacy, where she has dedicated 24 years of her career. Currently holding the position of Associate Dean for Student Success and Professional Initiatives as well as Professor of Pharmacy and Therapeutics, she has diverse experience that she now brings to a national platform. Her proven record in fostering significant change and collaboration within the pharmacy sector marks her as an ideal candidate for leading APhA's initiatives.

The excitement surrounding Dr. McGivney's introduction to the APhA leadership team is palpable. Michael D. Hogue, PharmD, FAPhA, FNAP, Executive Vice President and CEO of APhA, stated, “We are thrilled to have Dr. McGivney join the APhA executive leadership team. She is an industry leader in transformational change, particularly in the community pharmacy segment.” Her extensive background, including engagement with students, faculty, and practitioners, will be vital in fulfilling APhA's commitment to its members.

“Joining APhA is a fantastic opportunity,” Dr. McGivney expressed. “I am deeply honored to support pharmacists, student pharmacists, and pharmacy teams in advancing their ability to serve and care for populations across the country.” Her vision includes working collaboratively with professionals to enhance patient care efforts, offer support to communities, and create pathways for innovation and growth.

Among her notable contributions, Dr. McGivney has been a key figure in advancing community pharmacy services across the nation. She is the founding board member of the Pennsylvania Pharmacists Care Network (PPCN/CPESN) and the creative force behind the Academia-Community Transformation (ACT) Pharmacy Collaborative, which collaborates with educational institutions to engage pharmacy faculty across America.

Her initiatives have not only fostered community-based care but have also influenced the development and funding of services provided by pharmacists. Her work includes directing the University of Pittsburgh's COVID-19 mass vaccination services and leading various public health initiatives aimed at increasing access to essential healthcare services.

An esteemed leader within the pharmacy profession, Dr. McGivney has interacted with APhA in various capacities, including as a faculty advisor for the APhA Academy of Student Pharmacists. Her involvement extends to notable affiliations with both the Pennsylvania Pharmacists Association and the American Association of Colleges of Pharmacy.

Dr. McGivney also boasts an impressive academic background, holding a Doctor of Pharmacy degree from the University of Pittsburgh, a completed ambulatory care residency at UPMC Presbyterian, and has previously served on faculty for both Wilkes University and UPMC St. Margaret's Family Medicine Residency Program.

Founded in 1852, APhA has been the driving force for the pharmacy profession, advocating for pharmacists, student pharmacists, and pharmacy technicians while striving to bolster medication use and healthcare outcomes. The association plays a pivotal role in the development of national guidelines, policies, and exemplary practices beneficial to the public and the profession alike. With Dr. McGivney joining the leadership team, the APhA is poised to continue its mission of empowering healthcare through pharmacist expertise and community care initiatives.

For more details about APhA's work and Dr. McGivney's vision, please visit www.pharmacist.com.