When I was a kid, I struggled a lot with feeling comfortable in my own skin. I ambitiously tried sports in middle school because all my friends played, and after a couple years and a valiant effort, I decided that they were not for me. I figured there had to be something that would challenge and excite me in the same way that my friends were challenged and excited by sports. During my first year of high school, I hesitantly decided to try pottery. A few weeks into the class, I realized I absolutely loved it. It brought such joy that I took an art class almost every semester during high school. Because I tried something outside of my comfort zone, I discovered a passion that I would not have otherwise.

As the daughter of a retired law enforcement officer, I was honored to assist with the implementation of 2019.5—Creating Safe Work and Learning Environments for Student Pharmacists, Pharmacists, and Pharmacy Technicians at APhA2019 in Seattle. 

The impetus for this resolution focused on the increased need to address prescription drug theft, especially today when the opioid crisis is rampant and drug-seeking behaviors are continuously growing more prevalent. According to Pharmacist Mutual, the DEA reported 822 pharmacy robberies during 2016. The Indy Star reported that Indiana alone leads the nation with the most pharmacy robberies between 2013–16. Firearm-related violence is a constant concern among my Indiana peers and other colleagues from across the country. Safety is needed and extra guidance should be provided to prepare student pharmacists.

A robbery could happen to anyone, as it did to my best friend during her first professional year of pharmacy school. All pharmacy personnel need extensive training for firearm-related situations, especially for those that may involve active shooters.