Author: Amanda Jewett, PharmD, BCPP
Student chapters of the American Association of Psychiatric Pharmacists (AAPP) provide students with a valuable introduction to the field of psychiatric pharmacy and have a profound impact on their colleges and communities. Each year, student chapters submit documentation of their activities to the Student Committee to showcase their achievements. Following the 2025-2026 academic year, 44 chapters submitted reports detailing their community service, college involvement, and professional development activities.
Substance use disorders and naloxone training are major service focuses for many chapters. For instance, students at The University of Texas at Austin were particularly dedicated to naloxone education, hosting over ten naloxone training or awareness events throughout the academic year. Given that many community organizations provide naloxone at no cost, partnering with local groups allows student chapters to make a significant impact in their communities.
Student chapters also actively participate in wellness activities for students within their colleges and broader school communities. These activities range from succulent planting workshops and essential oil blending to outdoor hikes. Notably, students at the Midwestern University Glendale campus are responsible for updating monthly “Mental Health Minute” posters that are displayed around campus to offer encouragement and reminders to students, faculty, and staff. Wellness activities serve as effective tools for outreach to students and enhance the visibility of AAPP on campus.
Student chapters continue to be a vital pipeline for involvement in AAPP at large. Eighty students from these chapters reported attending the 2026 AAPP Annual Meeting. In addition to participating in student-specific programming, more than 20 students had the opportunity to present posters highlighting their research activities at their respective schools.
Students continue to infuse their service, advocacy, and educational endeavors with creativity and enthusiasm. The diligent efforts of these aspiring pharmacists have a profound impact on their communities and the future of psychiatric pharmacy. We eagerly anticipate their achievements in the 2026-2027 academic year.