About Us

HAPA is inspired by the life and legacy of Dr Thomas W. Patrick Sr.
Doctor Thomas W. Patrick Sr (1872-1953) migrated from Haiti to the United States as a child with his family in 1892. While in the U.S he became a pharmacist and a doctor providing healthcare education, medical services, and pharmaceutical knowledge to the Haitian community.

We, at HAPA, strive to continue Dr. Patrick’s legacy by providing the much-needed services within the Haitian American community and in other communities where our expertise is also needed

Overview:

The Haitian American Pharmacist Association (HAPA) is an esteemed non-profit entity with a steadfast devotion to the elevation of health and well-being within communities. Its focal mission revolves around three fundamental tenets, commensurate with the industry’s best practices.

In reverence to the legacy of Dr. Thomas W. Patrick Sr., a venerated figure who journeyed from Haiti to the United States as a child in 1892 and eventually carved an illustrious career as both a Pharmacist and a Doctor, HAPA persists in his mission. The organization has expanded its purview to encompass the Haitian American community and extends its services to other segments where its expertise is equally imperative.

Mission statement:

The Haitian American Pharmacist Association is deeply committed to advancing health and well-being. We focus on three key areas: Community Enrichment, where we empower individuals through education; Professional Empowerment, ensuring seamless integration of pharmaceutical care; and Unified Advancement, uniting our community for a healthier future within a holistic healthcare framework.

Vision:

To emerge as a preeminent catalyst for health education and advocacy, with an unwavering commitment to reaching marginalized communities, and forging critical alliances with healthcare providers, institutions, and policy influencers.

Core Values:

HAPA stands steadfast on the pillars of Health Enhancement, Community Education, Pharmaceutical Care Integration, and Unity.

Leadership:

HAPA is guided by a cadre of dedicated professionals distinguished in their fields of healthcare, education, and community engagement. Our members, serves as a passionate advocate for the integration of health systems within the association.

Organizational Summary:

HAPA upholds core values, focusing on health enhancement, community education, pharmaceutical care integration, and unity. Our mission is centered on comprehensive community education, empowering individuals with health knowledge, and fostering unity. Our vision is to be a dedicated advocate for health and well-being through education, empowerment, pharmaceutical care integration, and member unity for the betterment of all.

MEET THE TEAM

Ruth Anne Desauguste, PharmD

Director of Public Relations

Jenny Gervil, PharmD

Director of Media Relations

Martin Elie, PharmD
Martin Elie, PharmD

Immediate Past President

Michelange Tanis, PharmD

HAPA President 2026-2027 

Michelange “Michel” Tanis, PharmD, serves as President of the Haitian American Pharmacists Association for the 2026–2027 term. A graduate of Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University, Dr. Tanis has worked as a community and hospital pharmacist and has participated in numerous health fairs, school outreach programs, and community education initiatives. Born in Port-de-Paix, Haiti, and raised in South Florida, he brings a strong commitment to health literacy, mentorship, cultural awareness, and service to underserved communities. Dr. Tanis is passionate about using pharmacy, education, and community engagement to help improve health outcomes and empower those HAPA serves.

Gisele Dessources-Pean, RPh

Gisele Dessources Pean, RPh, is a founding member and active Board Member of the Haitian American Pharmacists Association. She earned her pharmacy degree from St. John’s University in New York in 1986 and has dedicated decades of service to the pharmacy profession and community health. Her professional experience includes service at St. Joseph Hospital, Pembroke Pines Hospital, Eckerd Drugs, Walgreens, and continued part-time pharmacy practice.

Throughout her career, Gisele has remained deeply committed to improving access to care, health education, and community service. She continues to give generously of her time, knowledge, and experience through HAPA’s outreach programs, medical relief mission trips, and community health initiatives. Her tireless dedication reflects HAPA’s mission to support underserved communities, strengthen health literacy, and promote compassionate service through pharmacy leadership.

Judith Alphonse, PharmD

Devina Richmond, CPhT

Ruth Anne Desauguste, PharmD

Jenny Gervil, PharmD

Director of Media Relations 

Dr. Jenny Gervil, PharmD, is a pharmacist, health educator, media personality, and community advocate dedicated to advancing public health and empowering underserved communities through education and service. A proud graduate of Florida A&M University, she brings years of frontline pharmacy experience to her work, including 12 years community pharmacy with Walgreens Pharmacy and her current role with the CVS Pharmacy Clinical Call Center, where she focuses on patient counseling, medication education, and accessible care.

She serves as Director of Media Relations with HAPA, helping lead health awareness campaigns, educational programs, and community engagement initiatives. As a radio host with Radio Touche Douce, Dr. Gervil uses her platform to deliver clear, practical health information on issues that matter most to her community. An international actress whose recent work includes the film Gods Will, she leverages storytelling and media to inform, inspire, and uplift those she serves.

Martin Elie, PharmD

Martin Elie, PharmD: Leading the Charge for Healthcare Equality as President of the Haitian American Pharmacist Association (HAPA)

Welcome to the profile of Martin Elie, a dynamic and dedicated individual who has been at the forefront of advocating for healthcare equality within the Haitian American community. Dr. Martin Elie currently serves as the President of the Haitian American Pharmacist Association (HAPA), where his leadership and commitment have played a pivotal role in advancing the organization’s mission and empowering pharmacists to make a positive impact on the healthcare landscape.

Background and Education

Dr. Martin Elie, a proud Haitian American, earned his Doctor of Pharmacy (PharmD) degree from a renowned institution, solidifying his foundation in pharmaceutical sciences and patient care. His educational background, combined with a passion for community service, laid the groundwork for his impactful career in the field of pharmacy.