Shantel Upshaw Houston, PHARMD
BHC 40 Under 40 | Class of 2026 | For the Culture
Interim Executive Vice President | National Pharmaceutical Association (NPhA) | Charlotte, NC
Shantel Upshaw Houston is a pharmacist, executive, and builder operating at the intersection of leadership, innovation, and health equity.
As Interim Executive Vice President of the National Pharmaceutical Association, she leads work that connects people, organizations, and ideas across the healthcare ecosystem. Her focus is on building partnerships and systems that expand access, strengthen communities, and drive impact at scale.
The Journey
Houston’s path into pharmacy began with mentorship.
"Someone took the time to show me what was possible in pharmacy..."
That early exposure revealed the range of what was possible within the field. Once in pharmacy school, she found her footing in patient education and counseling, where access to information became just as important as access to care.
That combination of education and access continues to shape how she approaches her work.
What This Recognition Means
For Houston, this recognition is collective by design.
"We are a group of multi-passionate, creative, and driven individuals."
She sees the honor not as an individual milestone, but as an entry point into a network of leaders who are all contributing to something larger.
It also serves as a moment of reflection. A reminder to acknowledge progress while staying focused on what still needs to be built.
What’s Next
Her current focus is on scale.
She is building systems, teams, and infrastructure that allow impact to extend beyond any one person or organization. This includes operational excellence, the use of AI and automation to increase efficiency, and the development of partnerships and programs that reach communities with the greatest need.
Equally important is pipeline development. She is intentionally investing in students and emerging leaders who will carry the work forward.
"Know yourself, stay true to yourself, and choose yourself."
Houston’s work reflects a clear understanding of leadership. Impact grows when systems are built to outlast individuals, and when people are developed alongside the work itself.
Connect
Instagram: @houstatlanta
LinkedIn: Shantel Upshaw Houston
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The BHC 40 Under 40 Class of 2026 honors the next generation of healthcare leaders reshaping how care is built, delivered, and experienced. Honorees will be celebrated at the Black Health Ball on June 27, 2026.