Kalpesh Desai appointed Director of Diversity Initiatives

By Kara Sweet

Published June 16, 2020

BUFFALO, N.Y.—The University at Buffalo School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences is committed to the establishment of a learning environment that embraces diversity, inclusiveness, equity and respect for all persons. 

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“When we all act better, humanity benefits. ”
Kalpesh Desai
Kalpesh Desai.

Kalpesh Desai, senior research scientist, pharmacy practice, has been appointed the school’s new Director for Diversity Initiatives. He will lead the school’s efforts to increase diversity and foster inclusiveness among our students, staff, and faculty.

Desai will develop mentoring and cultural sensitivity programs for the school and enhance opportunities for diversity scholarships. He will also serve as a liaison between the school and the UB Office for Inclusive Excellence and Office of Equity, Diversity and Inclusion.

The position holds special meaning to Desai. “When I was growing up, I was one of very few minorities in school and early on, I didn’t feel included,” he says. “I felt I was an outsider because of my skin color and having been born in a different country.”

“I would like to foster an environment at the school where everyone feels that they are welcome to share their ideas and feelings. All of us can learn from each other’s varied experiences and become more equitable and inclusive. When we all act better, humanity benefits.”

For over 130 years, the University at Buffalo School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences has continually been a leader in the education of pharmacists and pharmaceutical scientists, renowned for innovation in clinical practice and research. The school is accredited by the American Council of Pharmaceutical Education (ACPE) and is the No. 1 ranked school of pharmacy in New York State and No. 14 in the United States by U.S. News & World Report.