Monday, April 27, 2026
A group of well-dressed people posing in a group in front of a NACDS Foundation backdrop. There are people standing in the back and sitting in chairs in the front. All are holding a white piece of paper rolled and tied with a blue ribbon bow.

The University of Iowa (UI) College of Pharmacy received a 2026 National Association of Chain Drug Stores (NACDS) Foundation Innovation Award and $20,000 to support innovative programs that integrate emerging technologies, community outreach, and expanded pharmacist-led services to provide high-quality, accessible care across diverse health needs. The college was among six recipients recognized nationally.

Recognized for their program “Healthy Hawks: One Team, One Goal,” the initiative is a partnership with the UI Athletics Department to make flu vaccines more accessible to the public by integrating them into game-day experiences at fall athletic events. 

A successful pilot was launched in November 2025 where faculty and students administered flu vaccines during the pre-game of a women’s basketball game. With NACDS’s support, the college hopes to continue the program and improve health for Iowans through increased vaccine awareness, acceptance, and uptake in the community.