Event underscores NACDS Foundation's ongoing commitment to driving forward innovative solutions in research and pharmacy education.

The National Association of Chain Drug Stores (NACDS) Foundation celebrated its 28^th Annual Dinner on August 15 at the Omni Boston Hotel at the Seaport during the 2026 NACDS Total Store Expo.

The event bolsters the Foundation's research portfolio and supports pharmacy education programs that improve the health of communities nationwide. Total fundraising for the 2026 cycle exceeds $1.615 million.

Celebrating strides in healthcare innovation, over 550 industry leaders and academic partners came together in support of the Foundation's commitment to building the future of pharmacy and advancing public health. Proceeds from the Dinner directly fund the Foundation's research and education initiatives - shaping the next generation of pharmacists and delivering a meaningful impact for the communities that need it most.

During the evening, the NACDS Foundation presented its Pharmacy Leadership Award to Steven C. Anderson, FASAE, CAE, IOM, NACDS Foundation Chair and President and CEO of NACDS, in recognition of his extraordinary leadership and enduring commitment to advancing pharmacy and public health.

"I'm grateful to the NACDS Foundation for this recognition, though the credit truly belongs to this organization and everyone who powers its mission," said NACDS Foundation Chair Steven C. Anderson. "The Foundation invests in the people and the science that make pharmacy stronger, awarding a record total of scholarships this year and supporting research that improves health outcomes nationwide. It has been an honor to help advance work that matters this much."

"This is my first year as President of the Foundation, and it has made one thing clear: the Foundation succeeds because of the people who believe in it," said NACDS Foundation President Dr. Christie Boutte. "When we invest in a student today, we are also investing in the patients whose lives they will touch in the years ahead. Thanks to our supporters, we are shaping the future of pharmacy - empowering the next generation of pharmacists who will carry this profession forward and strengthen the health of communities for years to come."

The 29^th Annual NACDS Foundation Dinner will be held on Saturday, August 14, 2027, in San Diego during the 2027 NACDS Total Store Expo.

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