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Leadership Profile
Meet Bernice Man, PharmD

My story: Bernice Man, PharmD

Leadership position in ICHP: Chair of New Practitioners Network

Practice site: Practice Coordinator at Northwestern Medicine Specialty Pharmacy

I made a difference:

One my best experiences was with a recent interaction with an ulcerative colitis patient who expressed to me her appreciation for my work and reassurance in helping get her biologic medication covered.

Why pharmacy is for me:

My career path to pharmacy has been different than many other pharmacists as I previously worked in more arts-oriented fields such as acting, graphic design, and independent film. I joined pharmacy at an opportune time when the nature of our profession is in positive flux with the push for provider status and the emphasis on practicing at the top of our license. I truly enjoy having the opportunity to actively participate in making change in our profession through organizations such as ICHP. Through my work as the gastroenterology pharmacist in the specialty pharmacy, I also truly enjoy the opportunity to positively impact patients’ health and quality of life.

ICHP is great because:

ICHP is great because of the plethora of opportunities available to collaborate with like-minded people who actively participate in the progression of our profession.

First time joining ICHP:

I initially joined ICHP because of the SSHP booth at my pharmacy school’s student organization fair. At that time, I worked at a suburban community hospital as an inpatient pharmacy technician and already had in mind that I wanted to complete a residency. I had goals of increasing my involvement in SSHP so I subsequently ran for P1 Liaison. My SSHP leadership and ICHP involvement developed and grew from that point onward.

Special thanks for making me who I am today in my career:

There are a number of exceptional individuals who have inspired and guided me in my career thus far. I’d like to take this opportunity to thank Diana Isaacs, Bryan McCarthy, Katherine Miller, Jennifer Tryon, and Kevin Colgan. All of these individuals had and continue to have a strong impact and positive influence on my growth within pharmacy. I will always be so thankful and appreciative of their support.

Advice for a student:

I would advise student pharmacists to remain open-minded as one never knows where your life will lead, within and outside of pharmacy.

My special interests or hobbies outside of work:

Watching films (would highly recommend Phantom Thread and Loving Vincent) and going to concerts of many different genres, from classical to pop to new wave. I also enjoy playing mahjong with my family and going to baseball games.

Favorite restaurant or food:

I love restaurants and cuisines of all types, which is one of the best benefits of living in Chicago!