COURTNEY B. SMITH HONORED WITH NASPA EXCELLENCE IN INNOVATION AWARD

Maple Grove, MN – May 29, 2024 – Upsher-Smith Laboratories, LLC (Upsher-Smith) and the National Alliance of State Pharmacy Associations (NASPA) are pleased to announce that Courtney B. Smith, PharmD, CSP, BCMTMS has been awarded a prestigious 2024 NASPA Excellence in Innovation Award. The award was presented by the Pennsylvania Pharmacists Association. The annual award recognizes pharmacists from across the nation for their outstanding contributions to the profession of pharmacy. It is coordinated by NASPA, sponsored by Upsher-Smith, and presented by participating state pharmacy associations.

Smith currently works within the Penn State Health Milton S. Hershey Medical Center specialty pharmacy’s rheumatology service and leverages her diverse background in both traditional and alternative medicine to provide comprehensive disease state management and specialty medication education. There, she emphasizes the importance of empowering patients through education and active participation in their treatment plans. Her evidence-based approach has not only challenged existing norms but has also led to improved patient outcomes and greater overall satisfaction. Often recognized for her contributions to pharmacy, Smith was invited to share her insights on smart goals in pharmacy practice at the National Association of Specialty Pharmacy 2023 Annual Meeting.

Smith’s novel approaches to patient care have helped to distinguish herself in the field of pharmacy, particularly through her pioneering efforts with medical cannabis in Pennsylvania. Amidst the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic, Smith transitioned to an innovative pharmacy practice setting, where she spearheaded the integration of medication therapy management with Pennsylvania’s medical cannabis program, setting new standards and developing innovative avenues for patient care.

In addition to her clinical endeavors, Smith is deeply committed to education. As one of the pioneers in the field of medicinal cannabis education, she taught one of the first therapeutic medicinal cannabis student pharmacist electives at her alma mater, Wilkes University. Furthermore, her dedication to professional development was underscored by her completion of the ASHP, University of Kentucky College of Pharmacy Teaching Certificate for Pharmacists in 2023. As a preceptor for pharmacy students and residents, Smith has not only imparted knowledge but also inspired the next generation of pharmacists to embrace innovation and evidence-based practice.

“Courtney Smith’s pioneering spirit and noteworthy contributions to the field of pharmacy exemplify the essence of the NASPA Excellence in Innovation Award,” said Rich Fisher, President and COO of Upsher-Smith. “We are proud to partner with NASPA in recognizing outstanding pharmacists, like Courtney whose achievements and dedication to the field are advancing patient care.”

Krystalyn Weaver, Executive Vice President and CEO of NASPA, extended her congratulations to Smith on being named a 2024 NASPA Excellence in Innovation Award recipient, “We are thrilled to honor Courtney Smith for her exceptional contributions to the profession of pharmacy. Her innovative approaches to patient care are truly inspiring, and we are proud to celebrate her achievements alongside our longstanding partner, Upsher-Smith and the Pennsylvania Pharmacists Association.”

About the Excellence in Innovation Award

The Excellence in Innovation Award recognizes qualified pharmacists who have demonstrated significant innovation in their practice, method, or service directly or indirectly resulting in improved patient care and/or advancement of the profession of pharmacy. The award is presented by participating state pharmacy associations.

About Upsher-Smith

Upsher-Smith Laboratories, LLC is a trusted U.S. pharmaceutical company that strives to improve the health and lives of patients through an unwavering commitment to high-quality products and sustainable growth. The company brings brands and generics to a wide array of customers, always backed by its attentive level of service, strong industry relationships, and dedication to consistent product supply. For more information, visit www.upsher-smith.com.

About the National Alliance of State Pharmacy Associations

The National Alliance of State Pharmacy Associations (NASPA), founded in 1927 as the National Council of State Pharmacy Association Executives, is dedicated to enhancing the success of state pharmacy associations in their efforts to advance the profession of pharmacy. NASPA’s membership is comprised of state pharmacy associations and over 80 other stakeholder organizations. NASPA promotes leadership, sharing, learning, and policy exchange among its members and pharmacy leaders nationwide. For more information, please visit the NASPA website www.naspa.us.