Student Leadership Certificate Program – Connecticut Pharmacists Association

Developing the Next Generation of Pharmacy Leaders

The CPA Student Leadership Certificate Program is a year-long, experience-based leadership development opportunity designed for student pharmacists who want to elevate their skills, expand their professional network, and make a meaningful impact on the pharmacy profession.

Open to qualified pharmacy students from UConn, University of Saint Joseph, and Western New England University, the program blends hands-on leadership experiences, professional mentorship, continuing education, and active participation in CPA’s committees and events. Participants gain real-world exposure to the association’s work, develop confidence in their leadership style, and build a portfolio that showcases their growth and accomplishments.

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Why Apply?

Unlock Your Leadership Potential!
Students selected for the CPA Leadership Certificate Program will:

✔ Build real leadership experience: Engage directly with CPA committees, attend Board of Directors meetings, and take part in statewide initiatives that influence pharmacy practice.

✔ Receive one-on-one mentorship: Meet quarterly with a designated CPA leadership mentor who will guide your growth, help you set SMART goals, and offer personalized support throughout the program.

✔ Strengthen your professional network: Connect with pharmacy leaders, practicing clinicians, educators, and peers across the state—relationships that extend far beyond the program.

✔ Gain meaningful CE and professional development: Attend required programs such as the Leadership Seminar at the CPA Annual Meeting and at least one PharmLearn CE program each year.

✔ Create a professional leadership portfolio: Document your reflection activities and accomplishments throughout the year, culminating in a Graduation Showcase where you present your leadership journey to your cohort.

✔ Stand out from the crowd: Whether applying for internships, residencies, or your first pharmacy position, the Leadership Certificate demonstrates initiative, professionalism, and a commitment to advancing the profession.

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Program Requirements

Participants must complete the following during the program:
• Attend at least one PharmLearn program
• Attend one CPA Board of Directors meeting
• Actively participate in one CPA Committee
• Attend the Introduction to Leadership Seminar at the Annual Meeting
• Participate in at least one additional CPA event
• Meet quarterly with a leadership mentor
• Complete reflection activities after each program component
• Present a Leadership Portfolio at the Graduation Showcase

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Eligibility & Application

Students must be:
• P1–P3 at UConn or WNEU, or P1–P2 at USJ
• In good academic and professional standing
• Able to commit to all program activities

Applications are due by Friday, February 13 at 5:00 p.m.
No late submissions will be accepted.
Applicants will be notified of their status by Monday, March 2, and the program will begin March 2026.

Applicant Name *

First

Last

Email Address *

Phone Number

University *

Enter your current institution (e.g., University of Connecticut, Western New England University, University of Saint Joseph).

Professional Year *

Select your current professional year.

Applicant Qualifications *

I am a P1–P3 at University of Connecticut or Western New England University, or a P1–P2 at University of Saint Joseph.
I am in good academic and professional standing.
I am able to commit to all required program activities.

Please confirm that you meet all of the following qualifications.

Understanding of Program Requirements

By submitting this application I confirm that I understand the time and commitment requirements of the CPA Student Leadership Certificate Program; I am able to attend required Board of Directors meetings and at least one CPA conference in-person; I will complete the reflection assignments and participate in the Graduation Showcase; and, if selected, I commit to fully engaging in the year-long program. You may add any comments or questions below (optional).

Applicant Signature *

Clear Signature

Please sign to indicate that the information provided is accurate and that you agree to the program commitments outlined above.

Responsibilities Number Applicant

Date *

Interest in the CPA Student Leadership Certificate *

Why are you interested in joining the CPA Student Leadership Certificate, and what are you hoping to get out of participating in the program? (Suggested maximum: 500 words.)

SMART Goals (up to 500 words) *

Identify at least 3 SMART (specific, measurable, attainable, realistic, and timely) goals that you hope to achieve through your involvement with the program. 500 words maximum.

Balancing Responsibilities (up to 250 words) *

This program requires consistent participation throughout the year. How do you plan to balance these responsibilities alongside academic work and/or extracurricular demands? 250 words maximum.

Leadership Style Reflection (up to 300 words) *

Please click here and complete this leadership style questionnaire. When finished, come back here and, using the information from the questionnaire, describe 1) your most developed leadership style, 2) your well-developed leadership styles, and 3) your less-developed leadership styles. Assess how this compares to what you expected. 300 words maximum.