Why does the Western States Conference exist? Western States Conference (WSC) was started in 1980 to provide a professional conference for pharmacy residents and fellows to formally present their major projects in a relaxed atmosphere. With over 600 attendees and being one of the largest residency conferences it is a great opportunity for residents, fellows, and preceptors to learn from others about the innovative practices happening in our region and network with fellow attendees. The conference also provides continuing education programming for pharmacists to maintain knowledge and skills to provide excellent care.

The conference is represented by Alaska, Arizona, California, Colorado, Hawaii, Idaho, Montana, Nevada, New Mexico, Oregon, Utah, Washington and Wyoming.  

Why are Moderators important? As a volunteer Board we do not have the members to moderate all presentations for a 2-day conference. We rely on our attendees to volunteer as moderators to continue to foster a supportive environment for all residents who share their hard work and results of a year-long residency project. As a moderator, you assist by opening the stage for our presenters by introduction, facilitate discussion and questions from our attendees, and transition between speakers. Your contribution as a moderator is what makes the conference successful.

Why are Evaluators important? Residents spend a good portion of their residency year on their project. Attending the presentation in-person and providing feedback recognizes the residents for their hard work and commitment to the project. It is important for the resident to receive feedback on their project and presentation skills. Your feedback can provide different perspectives on their project, as well as insight as they wrap-up their projects and develop a transition plan. Future resident projects may transpire from your feedback.

Additionally, we ask attendees to stay through the end of the conference so residents presenting during the last sessions of the final day do not miss out on the full experience of presenting at Western States.

In turn, this can be used to satisfy ASHP Standards 4.3.d (for residency program directors) or 4.6.c (for residency program preceptors).

Our Mission

To provide an excellent professional conference where pharmacy residents and fellows come together to formally present their major projects, learn about the work of their peers, and grow their professional network.

Our Vision

The Western States Conference shapes the clinical pharmacy practitioners and educators of tomorrow by orchestrating idea sharing between new and experienced pharmacists in an innovative, supportive, and professional environment.