College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences student Veronika Hicks, Doctor of Pharmacy Candidate, Class of 2027, recently represented the University at AMCP Nexus 2025, held in National Harbor, Maryland. The annual conference, hosted by the Academy of Managed Care Pharmacy (AMCP), brings together pharmacy professionals, residents, fellows, and students from across the country to explore innovations and career pathways in managed care pharmacy.
As a recipient of the AMCP Foundation Cathy A. Carroll Scholarship, Hicks was invited to attend exclusive events recognizing scholarship recipients and connecting them with leaders in the managed care field. “It was truly special to meet and learn from so many successful and inspiring professionals,” she said. “These experiences reinforced my passion for managed care and helped me envision the next steps in my pharmacy career.”
During the conference, Hicks presented her research poster, “Research Topics Addressed in Observational Claims-Based Studies in Pharmacy,” gaining valuable experience communicating her findings to a range of audiences. “Presenting my research helped me strengthen my presentation and networking skills,” she noted. “I made so many meaningful connections and learned from residents, fellows, and industry experts.”
In addition to her scholarship and research participation, Hicks explored the expo hall, attended the residency showcase, and connected with two WNE alumni—Wilson Haong and Connor Geddis—who have both pursued managed care residencies and fellowships.
Reflecting on her experience, Hicks emphasized how WNE’s Distance Learning Pathway (DLP) has supported her success: “I am enjoying the DLP program and appreciate all the flexibility it provides,” Hicks shared. “The DLP has given me the ability to keep working and stay active in professional organizations while managing my own schedule. My husband is active-duty military, so being able to continue my PharmD education no matter where we’re stationed was a big priority for me. I chose WNE because of that flexibility—but also because of the small class sizes and strong NAPLEX success rates.”
Hicks serves in several leadership roles within the College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences, including President of ASHP-SSHP, DLP Vice President of Lambda Kappa Sigma, Director of Communications for IPhO, Class of 2028 Peer Advisor, and COPHS Student Ambassador.
She says her AMCP Nexus experience will have a lasting impact on her professional growth. “I’m grateful for this opportunity and proud to represent Western New England University at a national level,” Hicks said.
