The largest professional pharmaceutical fraternity in the world, Kappa Psi Pharmaceutical Fraternity, Inc., ranked two UF College of Pharmacy chapters in its Top 10 list for 2017–2018. The organization’s International Executive Committee chose from a list of more than 110 collegiate chapters.
The Orlando chapter, Epsilon Mu, ranked No. 5. This the sixth consecutive year the 33-member chapter has ranked in the Top 10 since its chartering in 2010. “For the chapter, the recognition shows our continued growth and dedication to the profession and the fraternity,” said Epsilon Mu regent Liem Dang, a third-year Pharm.D. student.
Throughout the 2017–2018 academic year, Epsilon Mu volunteered at the Ronald McDonald House and the Orlando Union Rescue Mission. It also organized a kickball tournament where participants raised more than $500 for the Threshold Center for Autism.
Jacksonville’s Zeta Gamma came in at No. 7. Chartered in 2014, the 30-member chapter made Kappa Psi’s Top 10 list for the second year in a row. “We have worked hard to overcome the challenges seen in newly established chapters,” said Zeta Gamma regent Julie Huynh, a third-year Pharm.D. student. “Being nationally ranked in the Top 10 is an important milestone because it assures us that the groundwork we have is strong.”
Some of Zeta Gamma’s service activities last academic year included teaming up with Walgreens to administer free flu shots for the homeless at Schulzbacher Center. Chapter members also organized K9 Carnival, a fair at a dog park, where they accepted donations to the Jacksonville Humane Society as an entrance fee.
The International Executive Committee chooses top chapters based on participation in national and regional Kappa Psi events, member academics, member leadership and community outreach.