(Lawrenceville, Ga., Dec. 11, 2024) – Gwinnett County District 3 Commissioner Jasper Watkins III has been awarded the prestigious 2024 American Society of Health-System Pharmacists and Association of Black Health System Pharmacists Joint Leadership Award. The award recognizes exceptional leadership and commitment to advancing health-system pharmacy practice and improving public health, particularly within underrepresented communities.

Commissioner Watkins, a highly respected leader with more than three decades of experience as a licensed pharmacist, was honored for his dedication to health equity, diversity in the health care workforce, and his advocacy for policies that enhance access to high-quality health care for all.

“Receiving the 2024 ASHP and ABHP Joint Leadership Award is both a humbling and motivating experience,” said Watkins. “It reaffirms my commitment to ensuring that all communities — especially those that have historically been underserved — have access to the health care resources they need to thrive. As both a pharmacist and a public servant, I will continue to advocate for health policies that support equity, inclusion and wellness for all.”

Commissioner Watkins’ leadership on the Board of Commissioners has been shaped by a commitment to public service and health equity. Early on in his first term, he became a staunch advocate for increased access to COVID-19 vaccinations — helping to stand up mass vaccination sites in south Gwinnett. He has championed innovative mental health services, including expanding the County’s OneStop 4 Help centers in the Centerville community and an upcoming center in Lawrenceville and he’s been a prominent voice for improved health care services to Gwinnett’s veterans.

The ASHP/ABHP Joint Leadership Award is presented annually to individuals who demonstrate exceptional leadership in advancing pharmacy practice and improving patient outcomes. Commissioner Watkins’ focus on health care access, preventive care and his efforts to address social determinants of health have made him a leader in both the public and health care sectors.

The award was formally presented to Watkins at the ASHP Awards Luncheon event held on Dec. 10 in New Orleans, Louisiana.