Pharmacy Residency Programs Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Task Force | NYU School of Medicine | NYU Langone Health

Pharmacy Residency Programs Pharmacy Residency Programs Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Task Force

Pharmacy Residency Programs Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Task Force

The Department of Pharmacy at NYU Grossman School of Medicine is committed to fostering a learning and working environment for its members that embraces diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) and sustains a sense of belonging, safety, and respect.

As part of the strategic plan for our pharmacy residency programs, we have formed a DEI Task Force to support NYU Langone’s diversity and inclusion initiatives and goals.

Our Department of Pharmacy cultivates diversity and inclusion among residents, staff, and leadership.
Our Department of Pharmacy cultivates diversity and inclusion among residents, staff, and leadership.

In 2022, NYU Langone was recognized by Forbes magazine as a Best Employer for Diversity. Located in the heart of Manhattan, one of the largest urban agglomerations in the world, our Department of Pharmacy serves communities of diverse people with a variety of health concerns. Learn more about our commitment to diversity.

Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Task Force Preceptor Experiences

Our DEI Task Force preceptors celebrate the contribution of the diverse identities, communities, and roles that make us a world-class institution in patient care, education, and research. We strive to be a place where our exceptionally talented faculty, staff, and students of all identities can declare with pride, “I am NYU Langone.”

Serena Arnouk, PharmD, BCCCP

While I have been at NYU Langone for several years, each day I am still in awe to be working in New York City. It truly is the melting pot of America, where no two people you meet are the same. There is so much for us to learn from different cultures and perspectives. My parents are first-generation immigrants from the Middle East, and the hardships that they had to overcome instilled in me at a young age the importance of working hard to succeed. My Middle Eastern culture has shaped who I am in many ways, and I do believe that because of our diverse backgrounds, we all bring something unique to the table.

Amisha Arya, PharmD, BCSCP, CJCP

As a female minority, I identify with the challenges faced by members of a diverse population. We are fortunate to live in a diverse city, and my own experiences as a minority in healthcare have given me the opportunity to appreciate not only the necessity, but also the advantages, for diversity within an institution. I am honored to contribute to our NYU Langone mission to promote inclusivity and respect among all members of our community.

Jessica Bylyku, PharmD

Growing up in an immigrant family, I was constantly exposed to new parts of American society, but I also strongly embraced my Albanian heritage. I believe it's important to welcome diversity and foster a culture of inclusion, particularly in healthcare settings. I also am a first generation college student, and I believe I can bring a unique perspective to many situations. Diversity and inclusion are fundamental principles in any community, and to embrace diversity means celebrating individuals from different backgrounds. I am happy to have a role in fostering strong relationships, better decision-making, and a more equitable society for everyone.

Calvin T. Chan, BS (Psy), PharmD, BCPS

As a first-generation Asian American, I appreciate the profound impact of embracing diverse perspectives. Throughout my upbringing, I navigated the delicate balance of living in two cultures, and recognizing the pivotal role it played in shaping my journey to this point. I hold a steadfast belief in the importance of fostering diverse thoughts within the workplace, avoiding the constraints of echo chambers, and embracing the unique life experiences brought by each team member. I am dedicated to ensuring that my colleagues feel genuinely valued and included, understanding that our collective strength thrives within the mosaic of our diversity.

Quy Huynh, PharmD, BCIDP

Having immigrated to the United States at two years of age, I was one of only two Vietnamese American students in my entire elementary school grade. I was thrust into a new language, a new culture, and a new way of thinking. However, it is in embracing these differences that I was able to truly appreciate the similarities. Acknowledging and normalizing diverging viewpoints reduce harmful biases and lingering stereotypes.

Nina Inayan, PharmD

My parents immigrated from the Philippines and pursued careers in nursing, which inspired my own passion for healthcare and helping others. Growing up as the child of immigrants in a predominantly Caucasian community, I often felt distanced from my cultural roots. College was a turning point where I began to truly embrace my Filipino heritage, and it has since become a fundamental part of my identity. This journey has strengthened my dedication to diversity and inclusion in healthcare, and I am committed to creating an environment where everyone feels valued, respected, and empowered.

Vassilia Plakas, PharmD

As a native New Yorker attending public school, I was exposed to many different cultures throughout my academic career. Interacting with the multitude of ethnicities expanded my horizons. My Greek heritage played an integral part in my upbringing, and interactions with various cultural groups increased my appreciation for the diversity of our city. In addition, volunteering in the healthcare setting in NYC allowed me to appreciate the importance of equitable access to education, services, and care. I am proud to be part of an organization whose dedication to equitable care and provision of resources is evident for patients and families.

Francis Andrew De Los Reyes, PharmD, BCOP, BCPPS

My parents immigrated to the United States from the Philippines to pursue the American dream. Throughout my childhood, I watched them work multiple jobs to ensure that my sister and I lived a comfortable life and could pursue our education without the same barriers they faced growing up. They also instilled in me the importance of my Filipino heritage and Catholic faith, both of which continue to shape my life. More recently, they provided me the love and support I needed when coming out as a member of the LGBTQ+ community. I have come to realize how having a community and support system that accepts you for who you are and celebrates what makes you different allows you to become the best, most authentic version of yourself in every facet of life. I seek to promote this same philosophy and am lucky to work at an institution that fosters this same belief.

Marina Samuel, PharmD

Growing up in a first-generation immigrant family taught me the value of resilience, hard work, and gratitude. In coming from Egypt with two young daughters, my parents sacrificed so much for my sister and I, often facing language barriers and cultural challenges. Despite these hardships, they instilled in me a deep appreciation for the opportunities we have in this country and the kindness we should offer to other individuals facing disparities. I am grateful to be a part of such a diverse institution, one that recognizes the importance of serving equitable healthcare to communities in need!

Contact Us

You may contact members of our DEI Task Force via email at NYURxDEI@NYULangone.org or the Office of Diversity Affairs via email at Diversity@NYULangone.org for more information.