UWF interested in partnership with FAMU in Crestview Florida

Crestview continues to be on the leading edge of growth and the rest of the country is taking notice.


UWF interested in partnership with FAMU
Proposed pharmacy school in Crestview could offer opportunities for the schools, college official says
By KYLE WRIGHT Florida Freedom Newspapers

CRESTVIEW — The University of West Florida sees the possibility of a Florida A&M University pharmacy school here as an opportunity for collaboration, not a threat from competition. UWF Emerald Coast Vice Provost Dr. Jack Azzaretto has contacted Florida A&M officials to explore ways the two schools can partner to serve the Crestview area if the proposed pharmacy school becomes a reality. “I wanted to introduce myself, since UWF has a presence in the area and let (FAMU) know UWF is looking to cooperate — not compete — and that it would be wonderful if there could be some ways to create some areas of coordination and cooperation,” Azzaretto said. Azzaretto said he spoke with the dean of FAMU’s College of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences about ways the schools can collaborate. He also told Crestview officials about the discussions. Crestview Mayor David Cadle confirmed he shared a message from Azzaretto with City Council members. Azzaretto emphasized the discussions are in the early stages. As an example, he said the proposed FAMU facility could help UWF students seeking upper-level pharmacy courses. UWF, in turn, could offer non-pharmacy electives to local FAMU students. The $2.5 million state budget allocation for the pharmacy school will be available Sept. 15. Earlier this week, the Crestview City Council voted to send a list of the city’s questions about the project to FAMU. The Crestview Main Street Association Board of Directors voted Thursday to endorse FAMU’s hopes to use the downtown Alatex building for the school.