Each March, the United States celebrates the impact of women in our nation and communities during Women’s History Month. Palm Beach Atlantic University (PBA) eagerly joins in the celebration by highlighting just a few of the many impactful women who make up our staff, faculty, and student body.
Dr. Dana Strachan serves as dean of PBA’s Lloyd L. Gregory School of Pharmacy, where she coordinates and teaches pharmacy calculations during the first didactic year to ensure safe and accurate medication preparation and dosing. She also teaches in the pharmacotherapy sequence, guiding students in the treatment of diseases through drug therapy. In addition, she serves as director of the Gregory Center for Medical Missions and enjoys serving globally alongside her students. Strachan is passionate about training the next generation of pharmacists and has particular interests in pharmacy calculations, men’s health, and the impact of artificial intelligence on drug therapy and research. Learn more below about what Women’s History Month means to her.
Why do you love your role at PBA?
In my role, I have the privilege of leading our faculty, staff, and students in preparing the next generation of pharmacists to serve with excellence, integrity, and compassion.
How long have you been at PBA?
I have been at PBA for over 20 years. It has been a tremendous blessing to grow alongside the School of Pharmacy and to witness the impact our graduates are making for their patients and in their communities.
Why is Women’s History Month meaningful to you?
Women’s History Month is meaningful to me because it provides an opportunity to recognize the contributions, resilience, and leadership of women across all fields. In pharmacy, women are increasingly playing a critical role in advancing patient care, education, and research. It is also a time to reflect on the progress that has been made while acknowledging that continued mentorship, encouragement, and opportunity are essential for future generations of women leaders.
Who is a woman who has made a significant impact upon your life, and how?
My mother has had a significant impact on my life. She has always pushed me to do well, even in the face of difficulties. She (and my father) sacrificed greatly so that I could receive an excellent education and be exposed to enriching extracurricular opportunities, such as playing the piano. She has been one of my biggest cheerleaders, constantly encouraging me to strive for excellence and to persevere. Her faith, determination, and selflessness shaped who I am today.
What are some challenges you have faced in your career and how have you sought to overcome them?
Both age and gender have presented challenges in leadership roles. At times, there can be assumptions made about capability or readiness. I have learned that “the proof is in the pudding.” Demonstrating outcomes, results, and measurable impact speaks louder than titles or assumptions. By focusing on excellence, consistency, and the success of the program and its students, I have worked to overcome these challenges.
What advice would you give to young women just launching their careers?
Work hard, but also make time to rest. You will be balancing many responsibilities — career, family, faith, and personal growth. Establish your priorities early. For me, the Lord comes first, followed by family and self. When those priorities are clear, decisions become easier. Stay committed to excellence, seek mentors, and remember that perseverance and integrity will carry you far.
Is there anything else you would like to share?
Leadership is not about position alone—it is about service, impact, and stewardship. As women continue to step into leadership roles, especially in health care and academia, it is important that we support and encourage one another. The next generation is watching, and we have the opportunity to model resilience, faith, and dedication.
Learn more about the Lloyd L. Gregory School of Pharmacy at https://www.pba.edu/academics/schools/pharmacy/.
