PULLMAN, WA – Julie Akers has been named interim dean of Washington State University’s College of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, effective July 1.
Having served the college for over 15 years, Akers was most recently in the role of executive associate dean, to which she was appointed in 2024.
“I am pleased to announce that Julie Akers has agreed to serve as interim dean of the College of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences,” said Daryll DeWald, executive vice president for WSU Health Sciences and chancellor of WSU Spokane. “Along with a strong vision for the future of the college, Julie brings a wealth of experience in both industry and academic affairs to this role, which will help continue the college on its path to a bright future.”
Akers received her PharmD from Washington State University in 2000 and has been a licensed pharmacist for 25 years. She gained significant industry experience throughout her career, including serving as director of retail pharmacies for the Everett Clinic, a district manager for Bartell Drugs, and as a consultant for the pharmaceutical industry.
As an alumna of this esteemed college, I am particularly excited to give back to the community that has shaped my professional journey.
Julie Akers, interim dean
College of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences
Washington State University
Since joining the faculty in 2013, Akers has been faculty in the Department of Pharmacotherapy and has fulfilled several administrative roles over the past decade. Her recent responsibilities include promoting the college’s Rural Health Initiative, leading the college’s new strategic plan, and overseeing development and alumni relations activities within the Office of Advancement. Akers has been promoted to professor, effective July 1.
“I am honored to step into the role of interim dean at the College of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences,” said Akers. “As an alumna of this esteemed college, I am particularly excited to give back to the community that has shaped my professional journey. I look forward to continuing our tradition of excellence in education, research, and community service, and to working closely with our dedicated faculty, staff, and students to advance the mission of our college.”
As interim dean, Akers will step into a role currently held by Mark Leid, who will be returning to the faculty at the conclusion of his five-year term in June.
“I would like to extend my heartfelt gratitude to Dean Leid for his five years of dedicated service and leadership,” Akers said. “His contributions have been instrumental in shaping the college’s success and reputation, and we are deeply appreciative of his commitment and the positive impact he has had on our community.”
Established in 1891 on the Pullman campus, the College of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences has an enduring history of educating pharmacists and pharmaceutical scientists in the state of Washington. The college relocated to the WSU Spokane campus in 2013 and is home to nearly 300 students in its undergraduate, graduate, and professional PharmD programs.
“Since its inception, the college has been a leader in pharmacy education, practice, and pharmaceutical research,” DeWald said. “As a graduate of WSU’s PharmD program, Julie exemplifies the excellence of one of WSU’s long-standing professional degree programs. I look forward to working with her as we advance the college’s legacy of impact.”