Walgreens promotes pharmacy, gov’t execs

DEERFIELD, Ill. —Walgreen Co. has named Donald Huonker senior vice president of pharmacy services, and Debra Garza divisional vice president of government and community relations.

“Don’s challenges are considerable as we strive to solidify our leading edge in the fast-changing health care field,” said Jeff Rein, Walgreens chairman and chief executive officer. “Prescriptions now account for two-thirds of our sales volume. At the same time, we’re focused on evolving from a prescription filler to a health care provider, with such initiatives as our Take Care clinics, in-store immunizations and specialty pharmacy offerings. Don understands this evolution and the role pharmacy can play in it, including our opportunities to control overall health care costs.”

Huonker joined Walgreens in 1995 as a management trainee in St. Louis after 16 years with United Parcel Service.

Prior to her promotion, Garza was director of government and community relations. She joined the company in 1984 and worked as a pharmacy technician, pharmacist and pharmacy manager before being promoted to pharmacy supervisor in 1995. She serves on the University of Texas College of Pharmacy Pharmaceutical Foundation Advisory Council and is the chairwoman of the National Association of Chain Drug Stores policy council.

“Debbie’s impact on Walgreens and how we are perceived by the government leaders who impact our operations is powerful,” Rein said. “Her grasp of both issues and people has opened important doors for our company.”