Taylor Alum Pursues Doctor of Pharmacy at Howard University

Taylor University’s Chemistry & Biochemistry Department equips students for success through access to state-of-the-art laboratories, numerous research opportunities, and guidance from faculty who both challenge and encourage. Taylor's Chemistry program is one of sixteen within the Council for Christian Colleges and Universities (CCCU) approved by the American Chemical Society. 

With a phenomenal success rate—a 95% placement rate into medical and pre-healthcare schools, a near-100% placement rate into graduate schools, and a 99% placement rate for direct entry into a chemistry career—the Chemistry & Biochemistry Department prepares students for a variety of career paths after graduation.  

Biochemistry graduate David Ferguson ‘19, is currently pursuing his third degree, a PharmD at Howard University College of Pharmacy in Washington, DC. He is actively involved in clinical practice, pharmaceutical research, and leadership initiatives. In addition to his studies, Ferguson is employed as a Pharmacy Intern at CVS.  

This summer, Ferguson will engage in pharmaceutical research and development as a summer fellow at Novartis, an innovative medicines company. His past research experience includes institutions such as Indiana University, Georgia Tech, and Heritage Pediatric Clinic. 

As a student representative for the Research Professional Development Committee at Howard University, Ferguson has coordinated academic seminars and met prominent voices in the chemist community. He is also actively involved in the Hematology/Oncology Pharmacy Association, a community dedicated to supporting oncology pharmacists and optimizing patient care. 

A Passion for Chemistry 

In addition to research, Ferguson is passionate about chemistry education. While pursuing his doctorate, Ferguson has had the opportunity to serve as a Chemistry Lecturer at The University of The Bahamas and currently works part time as an adjunct faculty member at Virginia Peninsula Community College.  

He also founded The New Chemist’s Podcast Group, which produces educational content on chemistry, pharmacy, and scientific research. Through this platform and time at Howard, he has had the honor of interviewing distinguished scientists and other voices within the chemist community. 

Dr. Robert Langer, a recognized biotechnology researcher, was one notable guest on Ferguson's podcast. Ferguson met Langer while in graduate school and is proud to name him as a mentor. 

Their connection began in 2019, when a devastating storm hit Ferguson's hometown. To help support his local high school, Ferguson wrote a high school-level chemistry textbook. Langer agreed to write the foreword, and the proceeds of the textbook sales went to the school, allowing them to purchase lab supplies and other academic resources. 

  

Taylor as a Foundation 

Ferguson’s time at Taylor University prepared him for these accomplishments. Ferguson shared how grateful he is to have been surrounded by peers with a unique love for others and Christ. To this day, he keeps in touch with the friends he made at Taylor. 

“Taylor taught me to have a really strong foundation in my faith,” Ferguson shared. “They taught me how to have not just a superficial faith but how to be a Christian in the professional world. Being at Taylor was invaluable.” 

The support of Chemistry professors like Dr. Patricia Stan, Dr. Daniel King, and Dr. Vincent Sichula guided Ferguson throughout his final semester. While writing his undergraduate thesis on Vitamin B synthesis, he realized the area he wanted to pursue after graduation: chemistry and its applications in the pharmaceutical industry. 

Offering advice on making the most of college, Ferguson said, “Make an effort to work hard and enjoy the journey. Enjoy the process of inquiring or developing and pursuing your degree.” He believes struggle is an important part of the journey, as it broadens your perspective on yourself and others.