Deanna Laughlin is a third-year PharmD candidate at the Northeast Ohio Medical University College of Pharmacy.
This past summer was one of the most transformative chapters of my academic and professional journey as a student pharmacist and public health advocate. From Geneva to New York City and Nairobi to Washington, DC, I had the privilege of engaging with international leaders and peers in conversations that will shape the future of health care.
Contributing to impactful discussions
My journey began in Geneva, Switzerland, where I represented student pharmacists at the 78th World Health Assembly in May 2025. Walking into the Palais des Nations and sitting among global health decision makers was surreal. I joined discussions on antimicrobial resistance, immunization, and health systems strengthening issues I have long been passionate about. Being able to contribute youth perspectives reminded me that the voices of future health professionals are vital in shaping international health policy.
Just weeks later, I traveled to New York City for the United Nations High-Level Political Forum (HLPF) on Sustainable Development. This event reinforced the interconnectedness of health with education, gender equality, and climate action. It was inspiring to see how young professionals and students from around the world are working toward the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). At the HLPF, I participated in sessions that highlighted the importance of resilient health systems, equitable access to medicines, and cross-sector collaboration. Additionally, I was able to be a panelist for Non-Communicable Diseases with the interconnection of the SDGs.
Humbled by my new elected position
The highlight of my summer came in Nairobi, Kenya, where I attended the 71st IPSF World Congress. Beyond the rich cultural exchange and professional development workshops, the congress marked a milestone in my leadership journey: I was elected as the chair of the IPSF Pan-American Regional Office for the 2025–2026 mandate. Standing before my peers as they entrusted me with this responsibility was humbling and energizing. I am deeply committed to leading our region with innovation, collaboration, and advocacy and continuing to strengthen the role of student pharmacists in public health across the Americas.
Following Nairobi, I traveled to Washington, DC, for the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) 62nd Directing Council, where regional strategies to advance health outcomes across the Americas were at the forefront of dialogue. Beginning my mandate as Pan American Regional Chairperson at PAHO was profoundly meaningful, as it grounded me in the region’s priorities from day one and continues to shape my commitment to advancing equitable health across the Americas.
A call I’m ready to answer
Each of these experiences reinforced my belief that pharmacy is not only about dispensing medications; it is about advancing health equity, shaping policy, and empowering communities. As I move forward, I am eager to build upon the lessons of this summer, ensuring that the voices of student pharmacists and young health leaders continue to be heard at the highest levels of decision making.
This summer was more than a series of events; it was a call to action. And I am ready to answer.