Esteemed Educator and Pharmacist Brings Over Two Decades of Experience to MBKU
FULLERTON, CALIF. (JULY 31, 2024) – Marshall B. Ketchum University (MBKU) proudly announces the appointment of Dr. Gail Orum-Alexander, PharmD, BCGP, as the new dean of its College of Pharmacy. Dr. Orum-Alexander brings a wealth of experience and a profound commitment to advancing pharmacy education, patient care and community engagement to her new role.
With over two decades of experience in higher education and a vigorous background as a pharmacy practitioner, Dr. Orum-Alexander is charged with leading the College of Pharmacy into a new era of growth and innovation. Before joining MBKU, Dr. Orum-Alexander served as the associate dean of experiential education, associate dean of academic affairs, associate dean of assessment and interim dean at the KGI School of Pharmacy and Health Sciences. She also held the position of dean of the College of Science and Health at Charles R. Drew University of Medicine and Science, overseeing programs in public health, physician assistant, radiologic sciences and pharmacy technology.
"I am honored and excited to join Marshall B. Ketchum University and lead the university’s College of Pharmacy," said Dr. Orum-Alexander. "MBKU's commitment to interprofessional education, community engagement and innovative pharmacy practice aligns perfectly with my vision for the future of pharmacy education. Its strong connection to practice through Ketchum Health and its dedication to the community it serves are incredible opportunities that I look forward to nurturing and advancing to the next level.”
Dr. Orum-Alexander's research interests focus on geriatric pharmacotherapy, medication optimization, health literacy and fall prevention. She has been a co-investigator on studies funded by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services and has presented at national conferences on health equity issues in aging and underserved populations. Her professional service includes active involvement in the California Pharmacists Association and serving as the immediate past president of the Greater Los Angeles chapter.
"We are thrilled to welcome Dr. Orum-Alexander to the MBKU family," said Dr. Julie A. Schornack, president of MBKU. "Her extensive experience in pharmacy education and her dedication to community health make her the ideal leader for our College of Pharmacy. We are confident that under her guidance, the College of Pharmacy at MBKU will continue to thrive and lead the way in setting new standards in the pharmacy education sector entirely."
Dr. Orum-Alexander states her immediate priorities include engaging with faculty and other stakeholders to re-envision the PharmD curriculum, enhancing student recruitment and support services and promoting the visibility of Marshall B. Ketchum University College of Pharmacy through strengthening community partnerships. She aims to integrate her research interests into the curriculum, offering students opportunities to engage hands-on in meaningful research and clinical experiences.