CVS Health Launches $5M Scholarship Program for Louisiana Pharmacy Students

Initiative aims to support future pharmacists and expand access to care in the state.

Feb. 21, 2026 at 10:47am

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CVS Health has announced a new $5 million scholarship program to support students pursuing Doctor of Pharmacy (PharmD) degrees at Xavier University of Louisiana and the University of Louisiana at Monroe. The initiative is part of CVS Health's broader efforts to advance health equity, expand access to care, and invest in the next generation of healthcare professionals.

Why it matters

This scholarship program reflects CVS Health's commitment to strengthening the healthcare workforce in Louisiana and ensuring that young people in the state have opportunities to learn, train, and build careers as pharmacists. By reducing financial barriers for pharmacy students, particularly those from diverse backgrounds, the program aims to create clear pathways for Louisiana's best and brightest to stay, serve, and succeed in their communities.

The details

The $5 million scholarship program will provide financial assistance to students pursuing their PharmD degrees at Xavier University of Louisiana and the University of Louisiana at Monroe. CVS Health selected these institutions for their shared commitment to academic excellence and community impact in Louisiana. The scholarships are part of CVS Health's broader efforts to support the next generation of healthcare professionals and expand access to care in underserved areas.

  • The scholarship program will be available starting the 2026-27 academic year.

The players

CVS Health

A leading healthcare company that operates a nationwide network of retail pharmacies and provides a range of pharmacy services.

Xavier University of Louisiana

A historically Black university with a strong legacy of producing healthcare leaders.

University of Louisiana at Monroe

A key contributor to the state's pharmacy workforce.

Jeff Landry

The Governor of Louisiana.

Lucille Accetta

Senior Vice President and Chief Pharmacy Officer at CVS Health.

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What they’re saying

“Pharmacists play a vital role in improving health outcomes and delivering care in the communities we serve. This investment reflects our deep commitment to Louisiana and our belief in the power of education to transform lives and strengthen the healthcare workforce.”

— Lucille Accetta, Senior Vice President and Chief Pharmacy Officer

“Louisiana's future depends on the young people we invest in today. When we create opportunities for our students to learn, train, and build their careers right here at home, we're strengthening our workforce and our communities at the same time.”

— Jeff Landry, Governor of Louisiana

What’s next

The scholarship program will be available starting the 2026-27 academic year, and more information will be provided through the financial aid offices at Xavier University and the University of Louisiana at Monroe.

The takeaway

This scholarship program demonstrates CVS Health's commitment to advancing health equity and investing in the next generation of healthcare professionals in Louisiana. By reducing financial barriers for pharmacy students, particularly those from diverse backgrounds, the program aims to create clear pathways for Louisiana's best and brightest to stay, serve, and succeed in their communities, ultimately strengthening the state's healthcare workforce and expanding access to care.