Sharon Youmans’ career has been characterized by a series of pathways – those she has taken and those she has guided others along. An accompanying mantra has also defined it: As I climb, I lift. “I will always try to leave a path open for my students that they can connect to and take even further than I would have,” she says.
Finding Her Niche in Academia
After graduating from the School of Pharmacy, Youmans worked in San Francisco hospitals and completed her residency before joining UCSF’s faculty in 2001. While teaching was not originally on her radar, her natural ability to lead, mentor, and empower students has become a hallmark of her career. She is now serving as executive vice dean of the School of Pharmacy and a professor of clinical pharmacy. Beyond traditional academic roles, Youmans champions opportunities for students by directing the Pharm Tech to PharmD Pathway Program and mentoring students in the Interprofessional Health Post-Baccalaureate Certificate Program.
Creating Global Impact
Her commitment to equity extends well beyond the Bay Area. As a former trustee and current supporter of the Global AIDS Interfaith Alliance, Youmans has a deep connection to Malawi and has long supported the sub-Saharan African country’s fight against HIV-AIDS. During the past few decades, Youmans has watched Malawi’s battle with the disease transform, thanks to medications, testing programs, and other collaborative health care initiatives.
Opening the Door for Others
“People were generous enough to open doors for me; I was smart enough to walk through them,” she reflects. “But someone was there to provide that access. To open up the door and present the opportunity.” Her work has been creating opportunities for others, thoughtfully directing brilliant minds toward their potential and ensuring equitable access for the next generation of health professionals.
