Preparing Student Pharmacists for Public Health Challenges During Crisis: A Collaborative Approach between WSU and LAU

January 27, 2025

As global conflicts present significant personal and professional challenges and reshape healthcare delivery, academic institutions must prepare resilient professionals. On January 27, Wayne State University (WSU) and Lebanese American University (LAU) Schools of Pharmacy hosted Preparing Student Pharmacists for Public Health Challenges During Crisis, a joint virtual panel exploring strategies to maintain academic rigor while supporting well-being in crisis-affected regions.

Moderators Dr. Susan Davis (WSU) and Dr. Roy Kanbar (LAU) highlighted the importance of international collaboration. Participants valued the shared perspectives, fostering a sense of connection.

Deans Naser Al Sharif and Brian Cummings emphasized the strength of academic unity in uncertain times. Dean Naser highlighted the guiding principles that lead us—flexibility with integrity, adaptability, solidarity, collaboration, and courage—and encouraged young people to bravely stand for justice around the world.

Six student speakers, three from each school, “Mia Raphael, Sima Kourani, Abdo El Hayek”, from the LAU School of Pharmacy, shared how the war shaped their education, demonstrating resilience and adaptability. One student stated: “Despite the challenges, we’ve learned to adapt, prioritize, and support one another.” Their courage inspired attendees, offering new perspectives on coping and community service. Former faculty at LAU School of Pharmacy, Dr. Aline Saad, currently an Associate Professor and Coordinator of Interprofessional Education at WSU, described the session as “impactful”.

The panel addressed pharmacy practice in conflict zones. Faculty preceptor, Dr. Aline Bou Maroun reflected: “We inspire, despite the storms, and we act, regardless of the challenges.” She underscored the power of shared experiences in fostering perseverance. and Dr. Maya Zeineddine highlighted the role that student pharmacists played in mobile health clinics for war-displaced families, noting: “By ensuring access to medications, offering therapeutic counseling, and addressing health-related concerns, these students bridged critical gaps in care during a time of crisis.”

Dr. Lamis Karaoui, Assistant Dean for Student Affairs, explained that during Fall 2024 the Student Affairs Office actively supported students amid the war by prioritizing safety, providing resources, offering academic advising, virtual town hall meetings, counseling, and online check-ins. A remote exam policy was also developed to allow students abroad to use vetted testing centers, ensuring academic continuity.

The seminar concluded with a call to action, encouraging student-led initiatives such as virtual case discussions, webinars, health campaigns, and humanitarian projects.

The discussion sparked renewed enthusiasm for collaboration, with students and faculty eager to implement new ideas. Participants expressed gratitude for engaging with new role models and reaffirmed their commitment to resilience, empathy, and global health.

The LAU and WSU Schools of Pharmacy remain dedicated to equipping future pharmacists with the skills to navigate crises with unwavering commitment to service and leadership.