Published on February 26, 2025 at 1 p.m. by Alison Ingle  
pinning ceremony 2025

Samford University's McWhorter School of Pharmacy honored its third-year Doctor of Pharmacy students at the annual professional pinning ceremony, Feb. 21, marking a significant milestone as students transition from classroom learning to advanced pharmacy practice experiences. 

The event celebrated the class of 2026's commitment to patient care and professional growth. Marshall Cates, a retired McWhorter School of Pharmacy professor, delivered the keynote address, emphasizing the human component of health care.  

"Reflecting on my experience and professional journey, I would say the most important quality of a health care professional is compassion and caring—in other words, being patient-centric," Cates said. 

He urged students to cultivate essential qualities such as knowledge, meticulous attention to detail, effective problem-solving skills, clear communication and a strong commitment to ethical standards. Cates also cited the Pharmacist Oath, reminding students to serve others beyond just dispensing medication. "I will consider the welfare of humanity and relief of suffering my primary concerns," he said.  

Cates encouraged the students not to confine their profession solely on the realm of medicine, but instead to embrace their role as pharmacists dedicated to enhancing the health and well-being of others, making meaningful impact in their lives. 

Third-year pharmacy student Hunter Lexington received the Cardinal Health Annual Independent Pharmacy Scholarship during the ceremony. Established in 2012, the award covers full tuition for the final year of pharmacy school. Patrick Stewart, pharmacy business consultant for Cardinal Health, presented the scholarship. 

 
Samford is a leading Christian university offering undergraduate programs grounded in the liberal arts with an array of nationally recognized graduate and professional schools. Founded in 1841, Samford is the 87th-oldest institution of higher learning in the United States. Samford enrolls 6,101 students from 45 states, Puerto Rico and 16 countries in its 10 academic schools: arts, arts and sciences, business, divinity, education, health professions, law, nursing, pharmacy and public health. Samford fields 17 athletic teams that compete in the tradition-rich Southern Conference and ranks with the second highest score in the nation for its 98% Graduation Success Rate among all NCAA Division I schools.