LEXINGTON, Ky. (November 15, 2024) — Michael D. Katz, PharmD, R75, clinical professor and director of Residency and International Programs at the R. Ken Coit University of Arizona College of Pharmacy, has been named the 2024 recipient of the prestigious Paul F. Parker Award. This honor, which recognizes significant contributions to the advancement of pharmacy practice, education, and leadership, will be presented at the American Society of Health-System Pharmacists (ASHP) Midyear Meeting in New Orleans, Louisiana.

Katz received his Doctor of Pharmacy degree from the University of Kentucky and completed his residency at the University of Kentucky Medical Center in 1979. He currently serves as residency program director for the PGY2 Internal Medicine program at the University of Arizona College of Pharmacy/Banner – University Medical Center Tucson.

The Paul F. Parker Award honors individuals with a University of Kentucky pharmacy residency background or a strong connection to the UK program. Awardees demonstrate exceptional dedication to the pharmacy profession through practice, research, and education. Katz’s career embodies Parker's ideals of leadership, commitment to excellence, and mentorship, impacting pharmacy professionals both in the U.S. and internationally.

One of Katz’s nominators, Donald Letendre, PharmD, remarked, “Dr. Katz epitomizes the type of practitioner the early UK program aspired to produce. He has devoted his life to inspiring and training the next generation of pharmacy leaders while upholding the highest standards of clinical care. His leadership, selfless dedication, and international impact embody the vision of Paul F. Parker.”

With a career spanning over four decades, Katz has substantially contributed to pharmacy education and clinical practice. Since joining the University of Arizona, he has built a legacy as a clinical educator and practitioner in internal medicine, particularly within underserved communities. His early experience with the Indian Health Service deeply influenced his advocacy for accessible, high-quality healthcare. Katz’s dedication to training future pharmacists has earned him numerous awards, including multiple University of Arizona Teacher of the Year honors.

George Francisco, PharmD, a longtime colleague, noted, “Mike has always been ahead of his time. His unyielding commitment to staying at the forefront of medical advancements and his dedication to training the next generation of practitioners has truly set him apart. He carries the very spirit of clinical innovation and excellence that Dr. Parker championed.”

Katz is also known for his international contributions to clinical pharmacy. As co-chair of the U.S.-Thai Pharmacy Consortium and a commissioner with the ACPE International Commission, he has promoted pharmacy education globally. His efforts have guided students and faculty in Thailand, Saudi Arabia, and Japan, creating transformative partnerships and training programs that align with Parker’s vision of a globally inclusive pharmacy profession.

In addition to these roles, Katz has served on the Pima County HIV Medication Committee for nearly 30 years and as President of the Arizona Society of Health-System Pharmacists. His accolades include the AzSHP Eli Schlossberg Award for Exemplary Service, multiple Teacher of the Year awards, and induction into the Phi Lambda Sigma Leadership Fraternity, reflecting his wide-ranging influence in the field.

“I am incredibly honored to receive the Paul F. Parker Award,” said Katz. “I am beyond humbled to be recognized alongside such dedicated professionals. Dr. Parker’s legacy is one I have long admired and strived to honor through my work, and I am deeply grateful to my nominators, mentors, colleagues, and students who have been part of this journey.”

The award presentation will occur on December 10, 2024, during the Paul F. Parker Award Luncheon at the ASHP Midyear Meeting. For ticket information, visit this website.