Pickart selected for national Kappa Epsilon scholarship

Kelsey Pickart, a second-year pharmacy student at South Dakota State University, has been selected as one of only five students nationally to receive the Zada M. Cooper Scholarship by Kappa Epsilon, a national pharmacy fraternal organization.

Established in 1955 in honor of Kappa Epsilon’s founder, the scholarship recognizes Kappa Epsilon collegiate members who exemplify academic achievement, leadership and commitment to the profession.

A Sioux Falls native, Pickart’s interest in pharmacy grew out of her family connections. Her grandfather owned a pharmacy in Winner, and a conversation with him during her high school years helped shape her career focus. “He said to me, ‘You like science, chemistry and math. You love helping people. Maybe you should look into pharmacy,’” she said.

Pickart is deeply involved in student leadership, currently serving as president of Chi Chapter, SDSU’s branch of the Kappa Epsilon. Under her leadership, Pickart works to help make the chapter a supportive space for connection and mutual encouragement. She is also vice president of the Alpha Kappa chapter of Phi Lambda Sigma, an international pharmacy leadership society, and a peer mentor for the Wintrode Student Success Center.

“Kelsey’s two years as president of Chi Chapter is a true testament to her commitment and dedication to her peers and to Kappa Epsilon National,” said Scout Forbes-Hurd, assistant professor of pharmacy practice and co-adviser for Chi Chapter. “Her ability to lead and create opportunities within the areas of fundraising and student chapter engagement events has been instrumental, as we've had a significant increase in member enrollment, starting with prepharmacy students who continue on and become full pledges as P1 students if accepted into the Pharm.D. program.”

While Pickart is still exploring where her pharmacy career may lead, she remains open to the many possibilities the profession offers. There is little doubt, however, that she will continue to be a leader in the field.