Ashlyn Elliott’s Path to Biopharma Leadership

With a passion for innovation and healthcare access, B&M Impact Foundation scholar Ashlyn Elliott is forging an exciting career in the biopharmaceutical industry 

Ashlyn grew up in Texas as an athlete, learning many lessons about teamwork and leadership through volleyball. She attended Texas A&M, where she earned her undergraduate degrees in Biomedical Sciences and Spanish.  

After deciding to pursue pharmacy school, Ashlyn was drawn to the UNC Eshelman School of Pharmacy for the quality of education and plethora of opportunities available to students. “I saw a diversity in career interests, which was nice because I knew I could dip my toe into every single field,” said Ashlyn.  

When she first arrived at UNC – the nation’s top-ranked pharmacy school – she felt imposter syndrome. “I just reminded myself that I was chosen to be here,” reflected Ashlyn. “What motivates me is knowing that such great leaders in our society and pharmacy fields are telling me that I’m ready to be here and I can be just like them one day.”  

Ashlyn received a four-year scholarship from the B&M Impact Foundation to support her pharmacy school education. Mentorship from B&M Impact Foundation co-founders John Bamforth and Sue Mahony, along with others in the UNC network, helped her overcome her initial self-doubts and take full advantage of her experience. 

“The scholarship is a tremendous opportunity for me to feel confident that I’m going to be able to get through these four years without as much financial worry,” said Ashlyn. “On top of that, having great mentors like Dr. Bamforth and Dr. Mahony, who are so invested in each of their scholars’ lives, pushes me. They are another resource for me that has been amazing.” 

At UNC, Ashlyn distinguished herself early, combining academic excellence with hands-on experience. She hopes to pursue a career in the pharmaceutical industry and has interned at Eli Lilly, Gilead Sciences, and Orange Grove Bio. She also worked with Eshelman Innovation, the pharmacy school’s healthcare innovation institute that bridges academic research and entrepreneurship to catalyze impact.  

Ashlyn has embraced an array of leadership experiences in pharmacy school. As president of the UNC chapter of the Industry Pharmacists Organization (IPhO), she opened doors for students to connect with industry experts and further their professional development. She is also an active member of the Global Engagement Organization (GEO), Spanish Rx, and the Phi Delta Chi professional fraternity. Her impact was recognized through her induction into the pharmacy leadership society Phi Lambda Sigma.  

Now enrolled in the PharmD/MBA dual degree program, Ashlyn is building the skills to lead across both clinical and business settings. Her path reflects a deep commitment to innovation, access, and impact in healthcare. 

“We’re honored to have supported Ashlyn and look forward to all she’ll accomplish in the years ahead,” said John Bamforth.