Although Washington has been involved in the profession for only five years, his personal ambitions are pushing him quickly up the corporate ladder. After receiving his Pharm.D. at Florida A&M University and his M.B.A. at Rollins College in Orlando, he began working at Priority Healthcare, a biologics pharmacy that distributes protein-based therapies used to treat conditions such as hepatitis, multiple sclerosis and Parkinson's disease. The company also recently embarked on a joint venture with Aetna to create Aetna Specialty Pharmacy, a best-in-class specialty pharmacy that will leverage buying power, deliver clinical program management and focus on coordinating service with physicians.

In slightly more than a year at Priority Healthcare, Washington has been promoted three times -- from staff pharmacist to senior pharmacist to pharmacy manager to director of pharmacy. Now he oversees 70 individuals. "I'm proud of what I do for patients on an individual basis," Washington said. "Priority Healthcare has given me the opportunity to grow and excel."

Within the specialty pharmacy distribution company, Washington focuses on reimbursements and new therapies. He also built an insurance verification process from the ground up. In the future, he would like to leverage his expertise to develop cost models that will help serve insurance and pharmaceutical companies, as well as provide cost-versus-benefit analysis and examine the impact on patients who do not receive the treatments they need.

"Pharmacists provide the most value-add for patients," he said. "It is critical for us to impart knowledge and to educate our patients. The goal is to equip every patient with adequate information. Patients have to feel as if they are a part of their health care team."

Although Washington was first drawn to the pharmaceutical field because he wanted to be able to work with families, it is his own family that keeps him driven today. "I grew up without a father," he said. "In life, I am most proud of the fact that I am a good dad to my 9-year-old son, Adonte, a good husband to my wife, Ayana, and a good provider."

Habitually preparing for the future, Washington would like to continue to excel in corporate management. He knows that today, however, there is still much to learn.

"What you are taught in college is only good for about one year. There are more drugs and more complex therapies. In pharmacy you have to specialize," Washington said. "Education and training only gets you in the game. Your attitude and work ethic determines how far you will go."