One of the best ways to guide the future is to get involved in the present. In pharmacy – a diverse and rapidly evolving profession – that sentiment is especially important. 

University of Iowa College of Pharmacy Doctor of Pharmacy student Lucas Hardy recently went beyond the classroom as a member of the inaugural National Association of Chain Drug Stores (NACDS) Foundation Emerging Leaders Academy (ELA). The program aims to inspire students to step into their roles as future leaders by exposing them to the wide variety of possibilities the industry has to offer and equipping them with the tools and connections they need to make an impact.

Dean, Jean M. Schmidt Chair, and Professor Jill Kolesar and Associate Dean of Student Services Cindy Sanoski nominated Hardy to represent the college, recognizing his promise and dedication to the profession. Forty-nine students attended from 25 states and the District of Columbia. 

"One of the best parts of the conference was meeting pharmacy students from across the country," Hardy said. "I hope to stay connected with them throughout my career."

Innovation and Advocacy

The ELA took place at the 2026 NACDS Total Store Expo (TSE), the largest gathering of retailers and suppliers in the health and wellness industry. Over three days, Hardy built his knowledge of pharmacy practice and advocacy through structured programming and networking. Professionals from all levels of pharmacy attended, from community practice to product development. The setting was perfect for students to learn from an abundance of new perspectives.

For Hardy, the variety of speakers was a highlight. Former CIA Director General David Petraeus delivered the keynote lecture on turning complexity into opportunity, while NACDS Vice President Michael Ayotte spoke directly to students during his presentation. Ayotte touched on the policy changes happening nationwide that help pharmacists practice at the top of their license. In such a pivotal moment for the profession, student advocacy is more important than ever. He emphasized the value of future impact. By engaging now, students will shape the workforce they’ll enter after graduation. 

Taking Part

But students did more than hear about pharmacy’s changing landscape. They got to see it in action. As judges in the TSE Product Showcase, ELA program participants selected their top picks from 10 product categories on the cutting edge of wellness. Their choices were displayed with the showcase’s winning results. The unique opportunity allowed students to make their voices heard in identifying the next generation of products that will help communities thrive.

Overall, Hardy said the program reinforced his passion to lead. “The ELA strengthened my excitement for the future of pharmacy,” he said. “It inspired me to keep advocating for the profession, encouraging future pharmacists, and growing into a leader who can make a meaningful difference in patient care.”