In a world where representation matters more than ever, every barrier broken is a beacon of hope for generations to come. For African women in academia, the story of Professor Toyin Tofade is one of courage, tenacity, and transformation. She has etched her name in the annals of history as the first Black female president of the Albany College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences in the United States, a role that is both powerful and symbolic.
Toyin Tofade, born and raised in Nigeria, had an early fascination with healthcare and science. Her foundational education began in Nigeria, where she earned a Bachelor of Pharmacy from Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU) in Ile-Ife, one of Nigeria’s most prestigious institutions. Even at this stage, her curiosity and commitment to human health set her apart.
Driven by a desire to deepen her knowledge and expand her horizons, she moved to the United States for graduate studies. She earned her Master of Science in Pharmacy Practice and Doctor of Pharmacy (PharmD) from the University of North Carolina (UNC) at Chapel Hill, one of the top pharmacy schools in the U.S. Her career would soon evolve beyond clinical expertise, branching into leadership, policy, and education.
Professor Tofade’s academic career has spanned multiple universities and leadership positions. Before her appointment at Albany College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences (ACPHS), she served as Dean and Professor at the Howard University College of Pharmacy in Washington, D.C., an institution with a rich legacy in educating African Americans. During her tenure at Howard, Tofade led numerous initiatives aimed at improving student outcomes, boosting faculty development, and enhancing the college’s national profile. Under her leadership, the college saw improved accreditation ratings, expansion in international partnerships, and increased student diversity and retention rates.
Tofade also worked with international bodies on public health projects and pharmaceutical education, highlighting her global mindset and commitment to inclusive academic excellence. Her vision consistently revolves around building strong healthcare systems, starting with the education of skilled and empathetic professionals.
In June 2021, Professor Toyin Tofade was officially appointed as the 10th President of the Albany College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences, becoming not only the first Black woman to lead the institution but also the first Black woman president of any pharmacy school in the United States. Her appointment came at a time when institutions across America were reckoning with issues of racial equity and inclusion. Her leadership symbolises progress — not as a token, but as a testament to excellence and hard-earned merit.
In her own words, Tofade said she hoped to “inspire others who may look like me” and “build a strong academic environment where everyone feels a sense of belonging.” Since her appointment, she has prioritised mentorship, expanded the school’s diversity pipeline programmes, and emphasised community engagement. She believes that pharmacy education must evolve to meet the complex health challenges of our times — including health disparities, mental health crises, and global pandemics.
Tofade’s leadership is defined by vision, inclusiveness, and results. She believes in transformational leadership, a style that empowers others, fosters innovation, and promotes long-term success. She is known for her open-door policy, collaborative mindset, and data-driven decision-making. Her work is rooted in the belief that education is a transformative tool not only for individuals but for societies. She has used her platform to challenge institutional biases, uplift underrepresented voices, and ensure that academic spaces are reflective of the world they serve.
Tofade’s tenure is not just about changing numbers, it is about changing cultures. Tofade’s excellence has been widely recognised. She is a Fellow of the American College of Clinical Pharmacy (FCCP) and the American Pharmacists Association (FAPhA). She has served on various national boards, including the Accreditation Council for Pharmacy Education (ACPE) and the Board of Pharmacy Specialties (BPS). In 2022, she was named among the Top 25 Women Leaders in Healthcare Education by Women We Admire, an achievement that highlighted her status as a trailblazer in the field. She is also a mentor and speaker, often featured in educational panels and leadership conferences focused on women, minorities, and healthcare transformation.
Beyond academia and policy, Toyin Tofade is a mother, wife, and a passionate advocate for personal development. She is known to be deeply grounded in her faith and values mentorship as a lifelong responsibility. She is not just a leader in title, but one in action, often guiding young professionals with authenticity and warmth.
