Michelle Hernandez, CPhT (She/Her)

Certified Specialty Pharmacy Technician, AdventHealth

Years as an ANAC member: 10 years

Local ANAC chapter: Central Florida

What does Pharmacy Week mean to you?

Pharmacy week is a time to celebrate and recognize the vital role pharmacists and pharmacy technicians play in keeping our community healthy. To me, it’s a week that highlights the heart behind the science - the compassion, precision, and dedication it takes to ensure every patient gets safe and effective care. It’s about honoring those who go beyond filling prescriptions; they educate, advocate, and often catch small details that make a huge difference in someone’s health. 

Why did you join the fight to end HIV/AIDS?

Having a family member who was diagnosed and didn’t have anywhere to turn inspired me to help. I took a deep dive into HIV when that happened to them because I was shocked at the many stories that were just like theirs. With any other disease there is a multitude of information out and with HIV it’s hard…It shouldn’t be. When I moved to Florida, I wanted to be the voice of those people who were ashamed or embarrassed or had no one to turn to. To get them the resources needed to thrive and live out full lives.

Who/what inspires you?

My inspiration comes from my fellow peers that fight the same fight I do. That are in research, community outreach, providers, care managers. All my peers have the same goal for every patient seen. Knowing they are out there doing the work inspires me to keep doing, even when days get tough or it seems the fight is taking us down.

What does ANAC mean to you?

ANAC to me is an opportunity to gather like minded caregivers, healthcare providers, community outreach peers to speak about our ongoing work for the community. We also help inspire each other and participate in events to educate the community and fight stigma. It’s also a great space for us to learn about new medications, processes, etc to continue to help our patients.

Dr. Alsean Bryant, PharmD, AAHIVP (He/Him)

Sr. Medical Science Liaison, Gilead Sciences

Years as an ANAC member: 1 year

What does Pharmacy Week mean to you? 

National Pharmacy Week is an opportunity to celebrate the vital and evolving role of pharmacists in advancing healthcare. It is a moment to reflect on how our expertise in medication, research, and education directly shapes patient outcomes and strengthens health systems. For me, it is also a reminder of the profound responsibility we carry - to use our knowledge to promote health equity, expand access to care, and advocate for those whose voices are too often unheard. As an HIV specialty pharmacist, National Pharmacy Week reinforces my commitment to bridging science and compassion, supporting the healthcare teams who make a difference every day, and continuing the collective effort to improve the lives of people affected by HIV.

Why did you join the fight to end HIV/AIDS?

As a pharmacist, I have always been driven by the belief that access to effective, evidence-based care is a fundamental right. I joined the fight to end HIV/AIDS because I recognized the persistent disparities that prevent too many individuals and communities from achieving optimal health outcomes. Pharmacy offers a unique opportunity to bridge science and service - translating innovation into meaningful, equitable care. During National Pharmacy Week, I am especially reminded of the critical role pharmacists play in advancing public health, reducing stigma, and ensuring that every person affected by HIV has access to the care and support they need to thrive.

What words of wisdom might you pass on to those entering the field?

Embrace curiosity, compassion, and collaboration. The practice of pharmacy extends far beyond dispensing medications. It also includes education, advocacy, and leadership in improving health outcomes. For those entering the field, I encourage you to seek opportunities that align your interests with purpose-driven impact. Remember that your voice, your perspective, and your commitment can influence systems, inspire trust, and drive meaningful change in the lives of patients and communities.

Who/what inspires you?

My purpose and passion have always met at the intersection of medicine and music. As a creative clinician committed to community, health equity, and the arts', I view my work through both a scientific and an artistic lens, recognizing that empathy, storytelling, and innovation are all essential to advancing health equity. Music, in particular, reminds me of the power of rhythm, harmony, and collaboration - principles that also guide my approach to healthcare. Whether in a clinic, community space, or corporate setting, I strive to show up with authenticity and creativity, using every platform available to spark dialogue, build trust, and drive impact. National Pharmacy Week is a celebration of that blend of art and science - of pharmacists who use both heart and intellect to improve the human experience.