HANCEVILLE, Ala. – Paula Garmon Harris’ story is a testament to the transformative power of community colleges. As a proud alumna of Wallace State Community College, Harris’ journey from a student with limited resources to a leader in the pharmacy world is truly inspiring.
Harris attended Wallace State from 1981 to 1983, earning an associate degree in Medical Technology. Coming from a family of five siblings, her path was not easy, but she and two of her siblings all persevered and earned degrees from Wallace State. Her sister, Kim Garmon Massey, graduated with an associate degree in nursing and continues working today. Her brother, Tommy Garmon, became a machinist and recently retired from a management position.
While at Wallace State, Harris worked at Cullman Medical Center every weekend, balancing her job with her studies. This demanding schedule left little time for extracurricular activities, but it did not deter her from excelling academically. Harris credits her success to the supportive environment and exceptional instructors at Wallace State.
“All the education I received at Wallace State was critical and directly correlated with my next step into pharmacy school,” she said.
Two instructors left a lasting impact on Harris. Marion Slatsky created a rich learning environment that allowed Harris to apply her laboratory experience in a clinical setting during pharmacy school. Gail Freeman, a chemistry instructor, instilled confidence in Harris and helped her build a strong foundation in analytical chemistry. Freeman’s inorganic chemistry class was the final course Harris needed to enter pharmacy school, and she said she will never forget the support and encouragement she received.
After graduating from Wallace State, Harris continued her education at Samford University School of Pharmacy, earning a bachelor’s degree in pharmacy and a geriatric certification from Purdue University. Over the past 34 years, Harris has worked in various areas of pharmacy, including retail, pharmacy benefit management, Alabama Medicaid and pharmacy sales. She recently retired as the director of pharmacy at VIVA Health, a premier health care plan in Birmingham.
Harris’ career has come full circle, and she cherishes the incredible relationships she has built along the way. Harris’ daughter recently moved to Mobile after purchasing a florist with her husband and their beautiful son and daughter. Her son is married and will graduate from Duke University Divinity School in May.
As Harris approaches the end of her career, her dream is to return to Wallace State and teach. She hopes to inspire future students and help them see the value of community colleges, just as Wallace State was the foundation for her enriched life.
Harris’ journey is a shining example of how community colleges can provide the education and support needed to achieve one’s dreams. Her story is a celebration of perseverance, dedication and the lasting impact of a quality education.
