Meet David D. Allen, pharmacy's new dean

David D. Allen

avid D. Allen became dean of the Ole Miss School of Pharmacy Jan. 1. The UM Pharmacy Alumni Chapter has scheduled a number of receptions across the state to enable you to meet your alma mater's new dean. Meantime, Pharmacy Matters has asked Dean Allen a few questions to help you get to know the University of Kentucky graduate and former Northeast Ohio Medical University College of Pharmacy dean a little better.

Q: What are some of the things you already enjoy about Oxford and Ole Miss?

A: I love the campus, and it is very clear to me why Ole Miss has been recognized as one of the most beautiful campuses in America. The people both here at Ole Miss and in Oxford are so friendly and genuine. We are really going to enjoy living and working here.

Q: Why did you want to pursue a career in pharmacy?

A: I was fascinated by chemistry and biology. I became very interested in how drugs affect the body. In addition, I grew up in a family business (not pharmacy) and was intrigued by the business of a drugstore.

Q: What do you find most rewarding about being a dean?

A: I've often said that my two most important jobs are helping people be successful and talking about their success. The things I find most rewarding are relishing in the success of others.

Q: What do you think is the School of Pharmacy's major challenge?

A: We are in a difficult funding climate, which creates challenges. I tend to focus on the opportunities much more than the challenges.

Q: What are some of the bright spots on the horizon for the school?

A: There are so many! First and foremost, our people! Then our stellar research efforts and tremendously strong professional program.

Q: What are some of your goals for our school?

A: I would like to see us focus our research efforts to enhance our standing in specific research areas. Our research visioning process will define these areas over the next two months.

Q: What is one of the major challenges facing the profession of pharmacy?

A: We need to do a better job of educating the public and other health care professionals about what we do and how we can substantially and positively impact patient care.

Q: What are some of the bright spots on the horizon for the profession?

A: Pharmacy does and is poised to have such impact on our patients. This is especially true in our state, where we can give back in so many ways to all Mississippians.

Q: Do you have any hobbies?

A: Spending time with my family, following pharmacy-related news, golf, cycling

Q: What are your favorite movies?

A: Young Frankenstein, Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory, Charlie and the Chocolate Factory

Q: What's on your iPod?

A: Mostly classic rock, with some new music

Q: What's your favorite website?

A: www.kentuckysportsreport.com.

Q: What's your favorite app?

A: Any travel and food apps—United, Delta, Starbucks, Around Me

Q: What's your favorite book?

A: Good to Great by Jim Collins

Q: What chore do you absolutely hate doing?

A: Mowing the grass!

Q: If you could be any fictional character, who would you choose?

A: Willy Wonka!

Q: What is your wife's name?

A: Loree G. Allen. She's the nicest person I have ever met!

Q: What are the names and ages of your children?

A: David D. Allen, 19, and Drew P. Allen, 17