Program and grad year: BSc(Pharm)’88
Career: Senior Director, Provincial Pharmacy for BC Cancer
A Lifelong Commitment to Pharmacy
Lynne Nakashima, (BSc(Pharm)’88) believes that pharmacy has always been about people, innovation, and saying yes to new opportunities.
A 2020 Alumni Agent of Change recipient from the UBC Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Lynne has spent decades helping shape oncology pharmacy practice in British Columbia while also mentoring future generations of pharmacists. Today, she serves as Senior Director, Provincial Pharmacy at BC Cancer, overseeing pharmacy services across the province’s regional cancer centres.
Her journey began at UBC, followed by earning a PharmD from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill in 1990. She then returned to British Columbia to become the first clinical pharmacist in the bone marrow transplant unit at BC Cancer.
“At that point nobody really knew what a clinical pharmacist was,” Lynne recalled with a laugh. “I walked onto the floor and introduced myself as the pharmacist, and people looked at me and asked, ‘What does a pharmacist do?’”
Helping Shape the Future of Oncology Care
Over the years, Lynne has witnessed remarkable growth in both cancer care and the pharmacy profession itself. When she first began working in oncology, treatment options were limited. Today, patients often have multiple lines of therapy available, helping transform many cancers into more manageable chronic conditions.
At the same time, the role of pharmacists has evolved dramatically.
“Now everybody wants a pharmacist on their team,” she said. “Clinical pharmacists are directly involved in patient care, helping manage cancer treatments, side effects, and other health conditions, while working closely with physicians, nurses, dietitians, and social workers.”
In her current leadership role, no two days are the same. Lynne’s work spans professional practice, clinical operations, education, policy, research, and helping negotiate access to new cancer therapies. She also continues to stay closely connected to students and trainees through teaching and mentorship.
“One of the most rewarding parts of my career is working with students and residents,” she shared. “They already come in with so much knowledge and potential. Being able to help build foundations so they can take their careers to the next level is incredibly rewarding.”
Staying Connected to UBC Pharm Sci
Lynne has remained deeply engaged with UBC since graduating. Since 1991, she has contributed to pharmacy education as an oncology section coordinator, lecturer, and preceptor for undergraduate and graduate pharmacy students. She also volunteers through alumni initiatives, attends faculty events, and supports the Faculty through philanthropy.
On May 28, 2026, Lynne returned to campus as the UBC Pharm Sci alumni representative at the Faculty’s convocation ceremony. Standing on stage alongside faculty and graduates, she congratulated the newest Pharm Sci alumni and formally welcomed them into the alumni community.
Advice for our newest alumni
For current students and new alumni, Lynne encourages embracing opportunities that may initially feel uncomfortable.
“Don’t be scared to try new things,” she advised. “Sometimes pharmacists can be a little conservative by nature, but stepping outside your comfort zone is where growth happens. Even if you’re not sure where something will lead, say yes and give it a try.”
Lynne hopes alumni remember the impact they can continue to have on the Faculty and future generations of pharmacists.
“UBC offers so many meaningful ways for alumni to stay connected,” she said. “Whether it’s mentoring students, volunteering, sharing your experiences, or giving back, even small contributions can have a lasting impact.”
For Lynne, pharmacy has been more than a career. It has been a lifelong community built on learning, collaboration, and helping others thrive.
“I’ve been so lucky to be part of this profession,” she reflected. “And it’s exciting to see where the next generation will take it.”