Chapman University School of Pharmacy faculty member Neeloufar Fakourfar, Pharm.D., was recently featured by the California Society of Health-System Pharmacists (CSHP), where she spoke about her career journey, carried by purpose, resilience, and a commitment to patient care and pharmacy education. From early experiences serving patients in a community pharmacy to advancing ambulatory care practice and mentoring the next generation of pharmacists, Fakourfar’s career reflects the profession’s evolving impact.

In the interview below, Fakourfar shares insights on the challenges that shaped their path, the role of mentorship and community through CSHP, and the passion that continues to drive her work today.

CSHP Spotlight: Neeloufar Fakourfar, Pharm.D., BCACP, APh

Neeloufar-fakourfarMy journey in pharmacy has continuously shaped who I am today, and I am deeply grateful for this career. I feel fortunate to have found a profession that aligns with who I am as a person, one that allows me to make a meaningful impact on others’ lives. In a world where a job can often feel like just a means to an end, my career has fueled my passion for inspiring future generations and supporting better health within my community. My journey began before pharmacy school at an independent Iranian-owned pharmacy in Irvine, where, as a first-generation Iranian-American, I cared for patients who felt like family. Whether it was reviewing medication instructions in Farsi or helping ensure prescriptions were filled on time, I quickly learned that the role of a pharmacist extends far beyond medications.

I continued my training at UC San Diego Skaggs School of Pharmacy, where I pushed myself to grow through leadership roles, including class president, student-run free clinic manager, and teaching assistant, while also engaging in research and professional organizations like CSHP. It was during this time that my passion for education and ambulatory care became clear. However, one of my most pivotal moments came when I did not match into residency. While difficult, this experience ultimately strengthened my resilience and redirected my path, shaping my future.

Shortly after graduation, I joined Touro University of California College of Pharmacy, where I was mentored by incredible individuals and gained hands-on experience in ambulatory care. I later pursued residency training in ambulatory care and academia at Western University of Health Sciences, which led me to my current role as an Assistant Professor at Chapman University School of Pharmacy and as an ambulatory care pharmacist with Providence Medical Foundation, where I have been for nearly 7 years. Along the way, I have built meaningful relationships with mentors and mentees, contributed to research advancing pharmacy practice and education, and found deep fulfillment in supporting others in their growth.

CSHP has played a significant role in my journey by providing mentorship, professional development, and a strong sense of community. Through my involvement with OCSHP, I have contributed to continuing education, mentored students and pharmacists, promoted well-being through wellness initiatives, and helped organize community and networking events. This work has allowed me to give back to the profession that has given me so much. I am honored to have received the Pharmacist of the Year award, which affirms my passion and reinforces my commitment to continuing to advocate for our profession, our patients, and future pharmacists.

When life feels challenging, I’ve learned to embrace it. Those moments reveal your strength and what you are truly capable of. My “why” is rooted in inspiring students and caring for patients who feel like family. To students and new pharmacists: trust your instincts, believe in yourself, and embrace the journey, even when it doesn’t go as planned. Often, it leads to something even greater. When you follow your passion and lead with purpose, you not only create a meaningful path for yourself but also make a lasting impact on those you serve.

Read the original spotlight with Fakourfar here on the CSHP website.