The delivery of health care continues to undergo constant change. For a number of years, many leaders in medicine have been promoting a paradigm shift from treatment to prevention. As this redirection takes place, it has becomes more imperative that each individual be educated and participate in his or her health care.

Through a gift from Dr. Joseph Baggett, the Campbell University School of Pharmacy has taken a giant step in addressing health awareness in our region of North Carolina by the establishment of the Campbell University School of Pharmacy Wellness Institute. The primary goal of the Wellness Institute is to better educate consumers regarding health issues and inspire health care providers to encourage patients to be more proactive in their health care. The Institute seeks to serve three distinct populations: students in our middle schools, the general population of health consumers, and health care professionals in close proximity to Campbell University. Because of the University's commitment toward diabetes awareness, the Institute includes a diabetes program designed to educate Campbell employees and their dependents about self-management issues and we are enthusiastic participants in the annual North Carolina Tour de Cure.

In making a substantial donation to the University, the late Dr. Joseph Baggett established the Professor John Robert Baggett and Dr. Joseph W. Baggett Fund. The earnings from this fund will assist in the perpetuation of the Campbell University School of Pharmacy Wellness Institute. It is fitting that Dr. Baggett established this fund at Campbell University as his father Professor John Robert Baggett taught at Buies Creek Academy.

The Campbell University School of Pharmacy Wellness Institute has the potential to have a tremendous impact on Campbell University, its School of Pharmacy, and the healthcare providers and consumers in our region. Dr. Baggett was acclaimed for his treatment and healing of patients as a physician in Fayetteville. Now we recognize him for his commitment to a new calling: the prevention of disease. On behalf of the faculty and students of Campbell University and the School of Pharmacy, I thank Dr. Joseph Baggett for his insight regarding the need for this Wellness Institute and his commitment to its success.

For more information on the Campbell University Wellness Institute please contact: