Meet Kim Hancock
Chapter: Alpha Iota Chapter
LKS Award
Advisor Award (2001)
About Kim
I joined the Alpha Iota Chapter at Ferris State University College of Pharmacy my freshman year (1984). As a new member, I was surrounded by sisters that showed me the value of hard work, professionalism and leadership. They were wonderful role models whose support guided me to become the pharmacist/faculty member that I am today.
After graduation, I took a nontraditional career path and accepted a position as a pharmaceutical manufacturing management trainee at The Upjohn Company. I was responsible for overseeing the manufacture of fluid and ointment products like Cortaid and Kaopectate. After two years at Upjohn, I decided I needed to challenge myself more and applied for graduate school. In 1994, I graduated from Purdue University with a Ph.D. in Industrial and Physical Pharmacy and became an Assistant Professor at Ferris State teaching pharmaceutics and pharmacokinetics courses.
After 21 years, I am still at Ferris doing what I love. My current position is Professor of Pharmaceutics and Department Chair of Pharmaceutical Science. The best part of being a faculty member at my alma mater is being able to advise the chapter that I was a member of as a student. This chapter means the world to me, and there is nothing more rewarding than watching the young women I advise become leaders in the profession of pharmacy. I have advised the Alpha Iota Chapter for over 20 years. I served as the Grand Secretary from 2014–2016 and currently chair the Advisor Committee.
Most memorable LKS experience?
My favorite memories of LKS are the good times spent at social sisterhood events like winter formal, homecoming and Greek Week.
Advice to other members?
Stay involved and engaged with your collegiate/alumni chapter and the national organization after graduation. In your career, follow your passion and don’t be afraid to take the path less followed. Sometimes the most rewarding opportunities come from unexpected places.
Why are you a lamb for life?
Because of the sisterhood. LKS had a huge impact on my success at Ferris. Without the support of my LKS sisters, I’m not sure that I would have stayed at Ferris and become a pharmacist.
What job would you do if you weren’t a pharmacist?
If I were not a pharmacist I would be a master brewer. Brewing uses a mix of chemistry, biochemistry, biology and formulation science…all my favorite subjects. I enjoy using science to make something I can share with others.