Mara Z. Carrasquillo Pharm.D

She earned her Doctor of Pharmacy degree from the University of Puerto Rico, Pharmacy School, and further honed her expertise through rigorous residency training, completing a PGY-1 Pharmacy Practice Residency at the Miami VA Healthcare System followed by a PGY-2 Critical Care Pharmacy Residency at Jackson Memorial Hospital.

Dr. Carrasquillo's career is marked by her commitment to excellence and innovation in pharmacy practice. She initially served as Clinical Coordinator and Medication Safety Officer at Mount Sinai Medical Center, where she played a pivotal role in improving medication management and safety protocols. In 2013, she rejoined the Miami VA Healthcare System as the Associate Chief of Pharmacy Services, leading significant advancements in pharmacy operations and patient care initiatives.

In June 2020, Dr. Carrasquillo was appointed Chief of Pharmacy at the Tampa VA, where she has consistently demonstrated her leadership by driving quality improvements and fostering a culture of patient-centered care. In the summer of 2023, she returned to the Miami VA Healthcare System as the Interim Associate Director, overseeing the operational dynamics of the pharmacy department and ensuring the delivery of high-quality services to veterans.

Beyond her administrative responsibilities, Dr. Carrasquillo is also committed to education and mentorship as a Clinical Assistant Professor at several esteemed institutions, including Florida A&M University, the University of Florida, Palm Beach Atlantic University, the University of Puerto Rico, and Nova Southeastern University. Her dedication to developing future pharmacy leaders is reflected in her involvement with various educational programs.

Dr. Carrasquillo's commitment to leadership development is further underscored by her completion of multiple prestigious training programs, including the Competency Development for Leaders in the 21st Century (CDL) and the Health Care Leadership Development Program (HCLDP) at the Miami VA Healthcare System. She has also graduated from the Leadership for a Democratic Society program at the Federal Executive Institute (FEI) under the U.S. Office of Personnel Management, enhancing her capacity to lead in complex healthcare environments.

With a foundational academic background that includes a BS in Microbiology from the University of Puerto Rico, Mayagüez Campus, Dr. Carrasquillo is not only an accomplished pharmacist but also a source of inspiration for those aspiring to make a difference in the healthcare field. Her journey reflects a profound dedication to service, leadership, and the continuous pursuit of excellence, embodying the values essential for success in today's healthcare landscape.