Kerry Laplante

WORK HISTORY

EDUCATION

ABOUT KERRY LAPLANTE

Dr. Kerry LaPlante is an internationally recognized infectious diseases pharmacist-scientist, and clinician with nearly 25 years of experience bringing together experts across academic, public, and private sectors.She currently serves as the first female Dean of the University of Rhode Island College of Pharmacy in its 123-year history (1902 - present), where she is leading bold transformation—with a strong focus on community, innovation, and impact.A first-generation college student from South Buffalo, NY, Dr. LaPlante began her pharmacy journey at age 16 behind the counter of a local independent drugstore. Her roots continue to shape her leadership style: hands-on, authentic, and fiercely committed to helping others. Known for “not being a textbook dean,” she brings energy, creativity, and strategic vision to everything from groundbreaking research to student leadership.Her scientific expertise lies in antimicrobial resistance, pharmacotherapy, pharmacodynamics, and infectious diseases. She has published extensively, led impactful research, and helped shape national antimicrobial stewardship practices. As Vice President of the Board for MAD-ID (Making a Difference in Infectious Diseases), she leads national efforts to advance education, clinical excellence, and leadership development in infectious diseases.At URI, Dr. LaPlante is reimagining pharmacy’s role in solving healthcare’s toughest problems—also focusing on integrating neuroscience, infectious diseases, immunology, and health care access into the College’s strategic priorities; expanding workforce development and graduate programs; and forging innovative collaborations across biotech, academia, and public health. She also champions belonging, accessibility, and inclusive excellence as central to her mission.