Ole Miss Pharmacy Student Earns University James Meredith Award

A fourth-year student from Brandon, Truong is pursuing a Doctor of Pharmacy/Master of Public Health dual degree. The award review committee commended her academic achievements, active involvement in co-curricular activities and proposal that demonstrated her dedication to community and social change.

“When I learned I had received the award, I was truly surprised and deeply grateful,” Truong said. “James Meredith’s legacy continues to move me. His bravery in integrating the university and his lifelong dedication to justice remind me that progress comes from perseverance and purpose.

“His story inspires me to approach my work with empathy and determination, knowing that small actions can create lasting impact.”

The James Meredith award provides students with experiential learning opportunities designed to develop their capacity for community-based leadership.

Recipients receive access to leadership and engagement resources, a one-time grant of up to $4,000 to support their community project and a $1,000 scholarship distributed over two semesters. They also participate in professional development events, connect with university and community leaders, and are formally recognized for their accomplishments.

Truong’s community project, titled “GlucoQuest: Bridging Gaps in Diabetes Care for Rural and Low-Income Populations,” seeks to expand access to essential diabetes supplies for uninsured and low-income patients.

“It is a pleasure to work with Stacy on this project, which has the potential to support Mississippians with diabetes who are in need of testing supplies that are so important for patient safety and as tools to empower patients to control their condition,” said Katie McClendon, UM clinical associate professor on the Jackson campus and Truong’s mentor.

Donna Strum, dean of the School of Pharmacy, said Truong’s project is a strong example of the passion of UM student pharmacists.

“Stacy’s commitment to improving diabetes care for rural and low-income patients reflects the very best of what our student pharmacists continue to work together to improve health outcomes and strengthen communities across Mississippi,” Strum said.

Through partnerships with the Jackson Free Clinic, with which Truong is heavily involved, and Oxford Medical Ministries, her program provides free care kits and gathers patient feedback to better understand barriers to care.

“Through this initiative, I hope to build a stronger connection between public health and pharmacy while creating sustainable ways to support those in need,” she said. “My mentors and my family’s journey as Vietnamese immigrants in Mississippi have taught me that meaningful change begins with kindness and the courage to care – values I will carry forward through this award and beyond.”

McClendon expressed her appreciation for seeing her mentee’s caring heart and hard work pay off.

“I am so proud of Stacy for receiving this award,” McClendon said. “She has worked so hard already as one of our community service co-chairs in Jackson and in her capacity on the Jackson Free Clinic leadership. She is dependable and cares deeply about the patients she serves.

“She also brings her experience as a student in a dual degree program to see how to blend pharmacy and public health.”