Dr. Jay Phipps Named Tennessee Pharmacist of the Year

NASHVILLE (July 10) — Dr. Jay Phipps is the 2026 Tom C. Sharp Pharmacist of the Year, the Tennessee Pharmacists Association (TPA) recently announced. The Tom C. Sharp Pharmacist of the Year Award is one of TPA’s highest honors recognizing a pharmacist who has distinguished the profession of pharmacy.

Dr. Phipps graduated from the University of Tennessee Health Science Center College of Pharmacy (UTHSC). While at the UTHSC, he served as an Ensign in the United States Public Health Service and worked in the office of US Surgeon General. He is founder and CEO of Phipps Pharmacy with five locations in Tennessee and serves as President and the CEO of PhippsCARE.

Dr. Phipps has earned fellowship in the American College of Apothecaries, the American College of Veterinary Pharmacists and the Tennessee Pharmacist Association. He has served TPA as President, chaired the Tennessee Pharmacist Research and Education Foundation Board of Directors and Nominations Committee. He held leadership roles in the American Pharmacists Association, American College of Veterinary Pharmacists and the National Community Pharmacy Association.

Dr. Phipps is a respected leader in the pharmacy profession whose influence extends beyond Tennessee. A tireless advocate for pharmacy, he works regularly with government leaders to advance the profession while setting the standard for community pharmacy practice. Known across the world as the “Pharmacy Gladiator”, Dr. Phipps works to enable pharmacists to provide the highest level of Pharmacy Doctor-provided care to the patients they serve.

Established in 1958, the Pharmacist of the Year Award recognizes a TPA member who has distinguished the profession. In 1965, it was renamed in honor of Tom C. Sharp, Sr., who served as TPA Executive Director for 30 years, and in 2001, expanded to also honor Tom C. Sharp, Jr., who also provided 30 years of leadership as TPA Executive Director.

Established in 1886, TPA is the leading organization representing pharmacists and pharmacy technicians across Tennessee. Committed to advancing pharmacy practice, TPA supports its members through advocacy, education and professional development initiatives that enhance patient care statewide. For more information, please visit tnpharm.org.