Distinguished Alumnus, School of Pharmacy & Pharmaceutical Sciences
Paul Huynh ’93 is more than a pharmacist, healthcare leader and mentor; he also creates opportunities for future pharmacy professionals. He is this year’s recipient of the School of Pharmacy & Pharmaceutical Sciences Distinguished Alumni Award.
Paul’s connection to UC Irvine began as an undergraduate. He received his bachelor’s degree in economics in 1993. He later earned his Pharm.D. from Creighton University and built a nearly three-decade career in pharmacy, advancing from frontline practice and store management to leadership roles with Walgreens. Today, he serves as a district pharmacy supervisor for Walgreens. He also serves on the Board of Directors for both the Orange County Pharmacists Association (OCPhA) and for the San Gabriel Valley Society of Health-System Pharmacists (SGVSHP).
Some of Paul’s most enduring contributions are his commitments to helping and mentoring the next generation of pharmacy leaders.
Since the founding of UC Irvine’s School of Pharmacy & Pharmaceutical Sciences in 2020, Paul has become one of its most steadfast partners. Through Walgreens, he has helped create experiences that support students at nearly every stage of their education – from welcome lunches for incoming Pharm.D. students and bowling events that build community to Advanced Pharmacy Practice Experience (APPE) rotation send-offs and residency panels that prepare students for what comes next.
His involvement goes well beyond events. Paul participates in career panels, hosts students on leadership-focused rotations and provides one-on-one guidance through the Susan & Henry Samueli College of Health Sciences Alumni Mentorship Program. He has also welcomed students to Pharm to Table dinners, creating informal opportunities for aspiring pharmacists to build relationships with practicing professionals.
Paul has repeatedly used his position to open doors. He helped strengthen Walgreens’ investment in UC Irvine students through the Walgreens Champions Scholarship, providing financial support and giving students greater freedom to focus on their academic and professional goals.
That commitment reflects a philosophy that has shaped Paul’s career: Professional success carries with it a responsibility to help others succeed.
“Paul Huynh is not merely a supporter of the UC Irvine School of Pharmacy & Pharmaceutical Sciences – he is a builder of it. Over nearly three decades in the pharmacy profession, he has risen through the ranks with integrity and purpose and then turned back to invest in those coming up behind him.”
Join us as we honor this year’s distinguished recipients and celebrate the remarkable achievements of the Anteater community.
