[Phar26] Women’s History Month Spotlight: Dr. Connie Barnes - Pharmacy

[Byrd, Kenley E]

Dear CPHS Community,
In honor of Women’s History Month, we are excited to spotlight Dr. Connie Barnes, a distinguished member of our Pharmacy faculty.
March marks Women’s History Month, a time to recognize and celebrate the remarkable contributions of women throughout history. In honor of this month, CPHS Student Affairs will be highlighting inspiring women faculty from our programs who have made a lasting impact in healthcare, science, and education. Join us every Tuesday and Thursday as we showcase their journeys, achievements, and contributions to the fields you are pursuing today.


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📌 About Dr. Connie Barnes:

Executive Vice-Chair of Pharmacy Practice

Co-Director of Drug Information Center

Pharmacy Practice

💡 Q&A Highlight:
Q: What inspired you to pursue a career in Pharmacy?
    I was inspired to pursue a career in pharmacy academia because I wanted to serve others and make a positive impact on students. Whether it is through providing a listening ear, guidance, or assistance, the opportunity to make someone's life better drives my passion for this profession. At the end of the day, it is all about the relationships you build with one another.

Q: Can you share a defining moment in your career?
    One of my proudest accomplishments was serving as the residency director for the Drug Information residency program and leading it to become the first ASHP-accredited drug information residency program not based in a hospital setting in the early 1990s. Other rewarding opportunities include serving on the self-study committees for accreditation site visits since the program’s inception. I have had the privilege of witnessing many positive changes over the years for the PharmD program.

Q: What challenges have you faced as a woman in science, and how did you overcome them?
      A challenge I faced early in my academic career was proving myself, especially after accepting a faculty position with the program from which I had recently graduated. I was able to overcome self-doubt during that time with the strong support of my colleagues including my mentor, Dr. Connie McKenzie, Department Chair Dr. Swanson, and Dr. Maddox, the founding Dean of CPHS.

Q: What advice would you give to students, especially women, who are pursuing careers in pharmacy?
      My advice to students, especially women, pursuing careers in pharmacy is to remain adaptable and open to new opportunities. The path may not always be straightforward, and being willing to adjust to challenges will help you grow. Seek out mentors who can offer guidance, encouragement, and support—having a strong network is invaluable. Also, do not hesitate to seize any opportunity for growth, whether it is taking on a new project, seeking additional training, or stepping outside your comfort zone. Every experience, no matter how small, can contribute to your personal and professional development and success. Lastly, be grateful for all the opportunities and experiences you encounter throughout your career, as they shape who you are and who you will become.

Q: What do you find most rewarding about working in education and mentoring students?
      What I find most rewarding about working in education and mentoring students is the opportunity to guide and support the next generation of pharmacists. It is rewarding to help students find their potential and build the confidence they need to succeed. I can also develop relationships with them, which allows me to not only teach but also learn from their unique perspectives. Building these connections and seeing students grow both personally and professionally is what makes being a faculty member rewarding.

Q: What does Women's History Month mean to you?
      It is about empowered women recognizing and supporting other women. We must remember and honor the women who have paved the way, continue to do so, and inspire others to seek out new opportunities.

Q: Is there a woman (past or present) who has inspired your career or life?
     My mom has always been my inspiration, encouraging me to see the glass half-full, pursue my purpose, and find passion in everything I do, all while keeping my focus on God’s will.

Q: How do you think we can continue to support and uplift women in physical therapy?
     In a book that I am currently reading, I Dare You: Embrace Life with Passion, authored by Joyce Meyer, she tells us to embrace life with passion but do so with a purpose. Passion without a purpose is short-lived. Find your why then passion will follow.

Q: What is one piece of advice you wish you had received earlier in your career?
     One piece of advice I wish I had received earlier in my career is to embrace failure as part of the learning process. Early on, I often saw mistakes as setbacks, but over time, I realized they are opportunities for growth and improvement. Learning to view challenges with a positive mindset and being open to feedback helps build your career with more confidence and resilience.

Join us in celebrating Dr. Connie Barnes and all the amazing women shaping the future of healthcare and science.

All the Best,

Office of Student Affairs | Campbell University | College of Pharmacy & Health Sciences

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