NEOMED student represents International Pharmaceutical Students’ Federation at World Health Assembly
Congratulations to second-year pharmacy student Deanna Laughlin for her selection as a delegate to the 78th World Health Assembly (WHA) in Geneva, Switzerland. Representing the International Pharmaceutical Students’ Federation (IPSF), Laughlin was one of a select group of pharmacy students worldwide chosen to attend this prestigious global policy forum hosted by the World Health Organization (WHO).
Laughlin’s appointment as a WHA delegate marks more than just a personal achievement—it represents a proud milestone for NEOMED. Her selection exemplifies how NEOMED students are gaining not only clinical knowledge but also emerging as dynamic voices in global health advocacy and policy.
The World Health Assembly serves as the governing body of the WHO, convening health ministers, policymakers and global health leaders to determine international health priorities, set policy agendas and coordinate responses to major public health challenges. Each year, the WHA addresses a wide range of pressing issues—from disease outbreaks and antimicrobial resistance to universal health coverage and access to essential medicines.
The major themes highlighted during this year’s assembly were:
- A growing recognition of the critical role of youth and student voices in shaping global health policy.
- Increased emphasis on the integration of pharmacists into health systems to improve access to medicines, strengthen primary care and ensure medication safety.
- A renewed commitment to health equity, pandemic preparedness and universal health coverage, underscoring the need for multisectoral collaboration and sustained global action.
“Participating in the World Health Assembly allowed me to witness firsthand how global health policy is shaped—and how the pharmacy profession can contribute to systemic change,” Laughlin shared.
For Laughlin, attending the WHA as a student delegate was both a professional honor and a transformative experience. Connecting with pharmacy students from across the world offered invaluable insight and inspiration. These interactions fostered international dialogue, promoted cultural understanding, and showcased the many ways pharmacists contribute to public health around the globe. Through shared experiences, students were able to exchange best practices, build collaborative networks and strengthen their collective voice as future leaders of the profession.
Student Leadership on the Global Stage
Laughlin's presence at the WHA helps reframe the identity of pharmacy students as more than future dispensers of medication—they are emerging public health advocates and health systems leaders. She joined IPSF’s global delegation to represent the voice of over 500,000 pharmacy students worldwide. In doing so, she helped advocate for key issues including equitable access to medicines, youth engagement in global health decision-making and the role of pharmacists in achieving universal health coverage. Her contributions reflect the growing recognition of pharmacists as integral to multidisciplinary healthcare teams and public health strategies worldwide. Moreover, Laughlin’s participation exemplifies the importance of youth representation in global forums. As a student, her voice brings a fresh perspective—infusing policymaking with innovation, urgency, and a focus on health equity. Her story demonstrates the value of investing in student leadership development, not only for the advancement of individuals but for the improvement of healthcare systems around the world.
Finally, Deanna Laughlin’s experience at the 78th World Health Assembly bridges the gap between academic preparation and real-world global impact. It serves as a powerful example of how NEOMED students are not only prepared to lead in their local communities but are also equipped to shape the future of health policy on the global stage.