I thank all of my colleagues who shared their talents, resources, and precious time. One reason why hematology/oncology pharmacists are so special is that they believe it can happen and they make it happen. My very best wishes to HOPA on its continued journey.
— John G. Kuhn, PharmD RPh FCCP

Accomplishments

• HOPA formally becomes an association
• HOPA bylaws ratified on August 5, 2004
• Leadership structure launched with seven committees and eight initial charges
• HOPA website launched
• First annual conference held in San Diego, CA
• First Award of Excellence in honor of Phil Johnson presented to LeAnne Kennedy
• HOPA becomes a provider of BCOP-accredited education in partnership with the American College of Clinical Pharmacology and the American Society of Health System Pharmacists

Leadership Spotlight:

What was the motivation behind creating the HOPA organization?

JK: There was a ground swell of Hem/Onc pharmacists making a difference and a need for a voice for all involved in the care of patients with cancer. Phil Johnsons’ Tampa program (MAD) was successful and provided the groundwork for a larger, national organization.

What is your definition of leadership?

JK: Transparency, willingness to fail, lead by example, and provide expeditious decisions with thoughtfulness.

How would you describe your leadership style?

JK: Leadership style is based on our experience and personality. Mine is probably a mixture of a variety of styles (coaching, visionary, servant) to provide direction and implementation of plans while motivating others.

Who were the people that influenced you most in your leadership journey?

JK: Bob Door, Bill Evans, Phil Johnson, Dan Von Hoff, MD, Charles Coltman, MD who said, “come to me with answers, not questions.”

Name three traits that are critical to being a successful leader.

JK: Goal-oriented, persistence, ability to alter one’s course, communication skills, enthusiasm.

What would you suggest that newer practitioners do if they aspire to be a leader?

JK: Be able to multitask (clinical practice, research, service), establish collaborations (local, regional, state, national, international), be a good listener and develop communication/presentation skills.

What can HOPA do to develop future leaders both in our profession and in the organization?

JK: “You know one when you see one.” In addition to what HOPA is currently doing, would hire a full-time HOPA clinical Hem/Onc pharmacist (BCOP, FHOPA) organizational manager who has interprofessional relationships with other organizations (ASHP, ACCP, etc). One of their primary responsibilities would be to cultivate leaders.

What are you most proud of as a leader and why?

JK: That I was chosen to develop and lead HOPA by my peers and colleagues. That I’ve been able to be a legacy as a teacher seeing all the residents and fellows who have gone on to be leaders and train others.

What do you wish someone would have told you as an aspiring leader?

JK: Don’t be afraid to fail – the experience brings wisdom. There is no such word as Can’t.

What advice would you give to your younger self?

JK: Maintain a balance between professional career and family.

What is a setback you have encountered and how did you get past it?

JK: One of my professional setbacks was not being promoted from assistant professor to associate professor on my first attempt (being overshadowed by my colleagues was a lesson). How did I get past it? By defining the areas of ambiguities, developing & implementing solutions, and accelerated my efforts. By doing so I went up for promotion 3 years later.

What is something you hope people remember about you?

JK: As a clinical oncology pharmacist who made a difference in cancer patients lives. Also as a teacher – you are not a teacher until your students call you one; until then you are an instructor.

What book would you recommend for aspiring leaders?

JK: I am probably illiterate in this area. I am not aware of a single book I’d recommend, except for the Bible.

Who is one person you wish you could interview and what would you ask them?

JK: Charles Walton, PhD, Associate Dean, UT College of Pharmacy. He developed the UT clinical pharmacy program. He was inspirational! I am proud to be one of the Walton boys. I would a