COLUMBUS__The Ohio Pharmacists Association (OPA) has awarded Karen Kier, RPh, PhD, FACCP, BCPS, BCACP, TTS, of Ada, Ohio the 2024 Bowl of Hygeia Award. Kier is a weekly columnist with articles appear in the Ada Icon and other regional news sources.

The Bowl of Hygeia Award honors pharmacists who have contributed to the progress of their communities. The award was presented at the OPA 146th Annual Conference held April 5-7 in Columbus, Ohio and is sponsored by NASPA and the APhA Foundation,

Kier received her Bachelor of Science in Pharmacy from Ohio Northern University as well as her Master of Science in Hospital Pharmacy and Doctor of Philosophy in Pharmacy Administration and Preventive Medicine from The Ohio State University. She currently serves as a Professor of Pharmacy Practice and Director of the Drug and Health Information Center at Ohio Northern University Raabe College of Pharmacy. 

The OPA states that Kier “is an exemplary member of her community through her volunteer work with several organizations. Kier currently serves as the President of Soroptimist International Kenton/Hardin County, a global volunteer organization for women, where she leads projects in public health, community education, and financial support. She is active in the Girl Scouts of Western Ohio working with the Hardin County Service Unit. She has held offices in the local school booster clubs as well as church organizations. She is a certified trainer for Basic Life Support (CPR) and Advanced Life Support and provides training for numerous nonprofit groups.”

Kier is a past recipient of the 2022 Public Relations Award from the Ohio Pharmacists Association.

“It is an easy task to recognize Karen Kier’s contributions to pharmacy. Her dedication to the profession is evident through her many years of teaching and mentoring, and her contributions to pharmacy organizations. Karen’s outstanding community service is an excellent example of working for a change,” said David Burke, OPA Executive Director.