D’Youville University Secures Federal Funding to Expand Advanced Pharmacy Training and Care

Congressman Tim Kennedy visited D’Youville University today to announce he has secured $338,000 in federal funding to modernize the University’s School of Pharmacy drug compounding facilities, an investment that will expand access to critical medications while advancing research, innovation, and workforce development in Western New York.

The project will transform existing space into a secure, regulated environment supporting sterile and non-sterile compounding services, helping address a significant gap in access to specialized medications across the region.

“This investment strengthens pharmacy education while directly expanding access to critical healthcare services in our community,” said D’Youville President Lorrie Clemo, PhD. “By modernizing our compounding facilities, we are better preparing students for high-demand careers and addressing a significant gap in access to complex medications for patients across Buffalo and Western New York.”

The federal funding, secured through the Commerce, Justice, Science, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act, is part of a $533,000 total project, with D’Youville contributing $195,000 toward construction and renovation.

For Congressman Kennedy, the investment reflects both workforce development and community impact.

“Modern healthcare professionals need access to modern medicine,” said Congressman Tim Kennedy. “D’Youville University’s School of Pharmacy plays a key role in filling the need for highly-trained pharmacists. With this funding, we’re ensuring students have real hands-on experience with the latest cutting-edge technologies, while simultaneously providing access to lifesaving drugs for Western New Yorkers who are facing shortages. As a D’Youville alumnus, I’m incredibly proud to see my alma mater continue to lead the way in innovation and public service.”

Expanding Access to Critical Care

The project directly addresses a regional gap in access to specialized medications. Currently, the nearest provider of sterile and advanced compounding services is approximately 15 miles away, creating barriers for patients requiring complex therapies, including oncology and other specialized treatments.

By expanding these capabilities on campus, D’Youville and its Vital Pharmacy, which already serves more than 7,500 patients annually, will become an even more critical access point for care in Buffalo and across Western New York.

“This appropriation is not simply funding, it is a catalyst for expanding both education and care in the community,” said Michael MacEvoy, PharmD, MBA, Chief Health Services Officer of D’Youville’s Health Professions Hub. “Sterile compounding is essential to modern healthcare delivery, and this investment allows our students to train at the highest level while directly supporting the growing needs of our region.”

Preparing the Next Generation of Pharmacists

The upgraded facilities will give students hands-on experience in a real-world healthcare environment, preparing them for specialized, in-demand roles while expanding the University’s ability to serve patients through its Health Professions Hub.

Image

Together, this investment strengthens D’Youville’s role in advancing healthcare access, developing workforce-ready graduates, and improving patient outcomes across Western New York.