Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center’s Klein Selected to Leadership Role by the Texas Pharmacy Association

• By Suzanna Cisneros
• May 26, 2026
• Education

The Texas Pharmacy Association announced (May 19) the appointment of Mary Klein, Pharm.D., as assistant vice president of Strategic Initiatives and Practice Innovation. Klein serves as an associate professor in the Department of Pharmacy Practice at the Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center (TTUHSC) Jerry H. Hodge School of Pharmacy in Abilene. 

Klein is recognized for her leadership and engagement with the Texas Legislature and pharmacy professional organizations at both the state and national levels. She serves as the current speaker of the house of the American Pharmacists Association and was president of the Texas Pharmacy Association. She is nationally recognized for her expertise in simulation-based education and innovative teaching strategies.

“Dr. Klein’s involvement with pharmacy professional organizations at this level demonstrates how our university leaders can extend their impact far beyond the classroom,” Grace M. Kuo, Pharm.D., Ph.D., Jerry H. Hodge School of Pharmacy dean said. “Having experts engaged at the state level brings evidence-based insight to policy discussions, elevates the university’s voice in shaping the future of healthcare, and helps ensure the needs of communities and patients across Texas are represented.”

In addition to her leadership and scholarly contributions, Klein has made a significant impact through her clinical practice at the Abilene Community Health Center as well as her longstanding commitment to student mentorship and community outreach initiatives.

Among her many accomplishments and honors are: 2021 Distinguished Service Award from the Texas Pharmacy Association, 2022 TTUHSC President’s Excellence in Community Engagement Award, 2024 Jerry H. Hodge School of Pharmacy Most Influential Professor Award and the 2025 TTUHSC President’s Award for Team Teaching.