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Leadership Profile
Meet Megan Hartranft, PharmD

What is your current leadership position in ICHP? 

I currently serve as a member of ICHP’s Government Affairs Committee and as NISHP Treasurer. 

What benefits do you see in being active in a professional association such as ICHP?

The top three benefits I gain being active with professional associations are:

1. Contributing to advocacy efforts that promote the pharmacy profession and advance the care we provide to patients
2. Networking with pharmacists from across the state to share ideas and just have fun
3. Growing my professional experience and expertise through serving in leadership positions and presenting continuing education sessions

What initially motivated you to get involved in ICHP?

When I first moved to Illinois, I wanted to learn more about the practice of pharmacy in this state, and I was eager to meet other pharmacists. A colleague recommended that I get involved with ICHP’s Government Affairs Committee, and I’ve been active ever since!

Where did you go to pharmacy school?

University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill Eshelman School of Pharmacy

Where have you trained or worked?

I completed my PGY1 Pharmacy Residency at the University of Michigan and my PGY2 Oncology Residency at Georgia Regents University (now Augusta University) and the University of Georgia.  I am now an Assistant Professor at Rosalind Franklin University College of Pharmacy with a practice site at Rush University Medical Center.

What special accomplishments have you achieved?

I have BCOP and BCPS certifications. A more unusual recognition that I’m proud of was being featured in Pharmacy Practice News as a top pharmacist to follow on Twitter. ICHP members are welcome to connect with me @MeganPharmD.

Describe your current area of practice and practice setting.

In my academic role at Rosalind Franklin University, I am the course coordinator and primary lecturer for Pharmacotherapy IV: Hematology/Oncology and for an elective class, Advanced Oncology.  In my clinical role at Rush University Medical Center, I established a pharmacist-run oral chemotherapy clinic. We provide counseling and monitoring for patients who are being initiated on oral anti-cancer therapies.

Is there an individual you admire or look up to, or a mentor that has influenced your career?

One pharmacist I look up to is Jim Stevenson.  During my residency at University of Michigan, Dr. Stevenson served as a mentor to me, teaching me about pharmacy leadership.  I especially admire his efforts to advance the profession, both nationally and internationally. 

What advice would you give to student pharmacists?

Say “yes” to unique opportunities.  Many students change their career plans throughout school, so keep an open mind and explore different paths.  You’ll at least have an interesting learning experience, and you may even find your new passion. 

What pharmacy related issues keep you up at night?

Provider status.  Pharmacists are capable of making a huge impact on the American healthcare system, optimizing delivery of care and reducing costs, if we could be reimbursed for cognitive services.  Pharmacists need to continue to push elected officials to support provider status legislation like Illinois House Bill 3833 and US Senate Bill 109.

Do you have any special interests or hobbies outside of work?

I’m an avid reader, I usually have two or three books going at once.  I just finished The Gene: An Intimate History by Siddhartha Mukherjee and now I’ve started The Lexus and the Olive Tree: Understanding Globalization by Thomas L. Friedman.

Do you have a favorite restaurant or food?

There’s a Venezuelan restaurant in my neighborhood that has become my favorite go-to.  They have the best arepas!

What is your favorite place to vacation?

I love visiting Charleston, SC – wonderful people, delicious food, beautiful architecture, tons of history, and of course, great beaches!                      

What is the most interesting/unique fact about yourself that few people know?

When I was an undergrad at Michigan State, I actually dual-degreed in Biochemistry and Classical Studies.  So if you ever need any Latin poetry translated, just let me know!

What 3 adjectives would people use to best describe you?

Nerdy, thoughtful, and well-rounded.