Nashville, TN (July 22, 2026) — The Tennessee Pharmacists Research and Education Foundation (TPREF) is proud to announce the launch of the TPREF Leadership Development Endowment Fund, a transformational initiative designed to strengthen the future of pharmacy through sustained investment in leadership development, educational excellence, and professional advancement.
The establishment of this endowment represents TPREF’s commitment to developing future pharmacy leaders while ensuring continued support for the programs and resources that advance the profession throughout Tennessee. The TPREF Leadership Development Endowment Fund will provide ongoing financial support for initiatives that foster professional growth and leadership excellence, including:
- Scholarships for student pharmacists who demonstrate academic achievement, leadership potential, and a commitment to advancing pharmacy practice,
- Leadership development programs for students and practitioners,
- Emerging Leaders Academy participation and program support,
- Executive Internship and Executive Fellowship training opportunities, and
- Additional educational and professional development initiatives through the Home of Tennessee Pharmacy.
In addition to supporting scholarships and leadership programming, the endowment will help ensure the long-term sustainability of TPREF’s educational mission through support for foundation operations, program administration, and stewardship of foundation assets.
The fund is managed under the oversight of the TPREF Board of Directors and its Finance & Investment Committee, ensuring responsible stewardship, transparency, and accountability.
TPREF is pleased to announce that $100,000 in gifts and pledges has already been commiteted to the endowment by visionary supporters who recognize the importance of investing in the next generation of pharmacy leaders. Building on this early momentum, TPREF has established a fundraising goal of $500,000 over the next three years, creating a permanent source of funding projected to generate $20,000 annually to support scholarships, leadership development programs, and initiatives that strengthen the profession across Tennessee.
“This endowment is an investment in people,” said Anthony Pudlo, CEO of TPREF. “By supporting leadership development today, we are helping shape the pharmacists, innovators, and healthcare leaders who will serve Tennessee communities for generations to come. The commitment already demonstrated by our early contributors provides a strong foundation, and we invite others across the profession to join us in building this lasting legacy.”
The success of the TPREF Leadership Development Endowment Fund depends on the collective support of pharmacists, pharmacy technicians, industry partners, healthcare organizations, and friends of the profession.
Every contribution helps strengthen the long-term sustainability of TPREF’s mission and expands opportunities for future leaders. Whether through a one-time gift, multi-year pledge, or planned contribution, supporters can play a vital role in ensuring the continued growth and success of pharmacy in Tennessee.
Join us in building a stronger future for pharmacy in Tennessee. Make a contribution or pledge today and help develop tomorrow’s pharmacy leaders. To learn more or make a gift, visit our website or contact TPREF at TPA@TNPharm.org or 615-256-3023.
About the Tennessee Pharmacists Research and Education Foundation
The Tennessee Pharmacists Research and Education Foundation inspires generosity and advances the pharmacy profession by supporting education, practice-based research, leadership development, and student scholarships. Since 1990, TPREF has served as the charitable 501(c)(3) foundation and affiliated philanthropic partner of the Tennessee Pharmacists Association, investing in programs and initiatives that strengthen the profession and improve patient care across Tennessee. For more information, please visit tnpharm.org/tpref.
