The Arkansas Association of Health-System Pharmacists (AAHP) was founded in June 1957, when a group of visionary pharmacists gathered for lunch at the Sam Peck Hotel to discuss the formation of a professional organization dedicated to hospital pharmacy in Arkansas. This meeting led to the establishment of the Arkansas Association of Hospital Pharmacists, a recognized chapter of the American Society of Hospital Pharmacists (ASHP).

By September 1957, the association had adopted its constitution and bylaws and elected its first officers:

• President: William D. Hagans

• Vice President: George P. Provost

• Secretary-Treasurer: Louise Pope

Charter members included:
Lattye M. Goodrum, Dayton Brewer, Carl L. Brooks, Jr., William M. Heller, Jack Leonard, Harold J. Hamilton, Flint Ward, Hulen Smith, Louis D. Hauser, and James H. Ackerman.

In its early years, AAHP held four meetings annually, each designed to enhance hospital pharmacy practices and promote professional development. A significant milestone came in 1967 when James Henderson chaired the first AAHP seminar, which was later expanded to a two-day event in 1982, marking the beginning of nationally and regionally recognized speakers being featured.

The association's first membership picnic took place on June 15, 1972, at Burns Park and featured a traditional fish fry — a reflection of AAHP’s commitment to building community among its members.

Under the leadership of President Louis D. Hauser, AAHP was instrumental in the passage of the Hospital Pharmacy Act of 1975, legislation aimed at advancing institutional pharmacy practice and encouraging innovations like unit-dose distribution and IV additive programs.

In 1970, discussions began around becoming an academy within the Arkansas Pharmacists Association (APA). A foundational agreement was reached in 1981, during the presidency of William S. Freeman.

AAHP’s continued growth and professionalism were further marked by several key developments:

• The first installation banquet was held in 1983 at the Excelsior Hotel.

• The first AAHP newsletter was published in March 1987.

• In 1991, AAHP conducted a statewide survey that contributed critical data supporting changes in hospital regulations, particularly regarding the use of pharmacy technicians.

From its modest beginnings with just 14 members in 1957, the organization grew to 140 members by 1982, and by 2000, membership had expanded to over 400 professionals.

Today, AAHP continues its mission of supporting and advancing health-system pharmacy in Arkansas through advocacy, education, and professional development.