John Allen, Pharm.D., a clinical assistant professor and associate dean for diversity, inclusion and healthy equity in the UF College of Pharmacy is the 10th annual Huy D. Huynh Hall of Fame faculty/staff category inductee.
The induction recognizes outstanding leaders who have devoted themselves to representing and advancing the Asian Pacific Islander Desi American community at the University of Florida and beyond. Nominators on behalf of Allen wrote that “you were critical and inclusive in your approach to uplift and create a space for students who identify as Asian and Asian American within the College of Pharmacy to express and seek support during heightened social and political unrest.”
The hall of fame highlights the inductee’s legacies at the university from their contributions of positive change across the campus to their personal growth and development.
“I am so grateful to have an opportunity to help cultivate an environment where our Asian students have a place where they feel safe and have a sense of community,” Allen said. “With the rise in Anti-Asian hate seen throughout the country, now is a time for the UF College of Pharmacy Pharmily to remain vigilant and to work to create an inclusive environment, particularly for our Asian students, faculty and staff. We are continuously striving to be better each day.”
The Huy D. Huynh Hall of Fame is named in memory and honor of Huy D. Huynh, a trailblazing leader who was heavily involved in student life. Huynh passed away in 2017 after living with brain cancer for 24 months. He graduated with a Bachelor’s of Science degree in Nutrition, ’07, a Master’s of Science in Food Science, ’09, and a Doctor of Dental Medicine, ’13.