Pete Johnson Named Recipient of the 2026 Richard A. Helms Award of Excellence in Pediatric Pharmacy Practice

Posted on January 22, 2026

The Pediatric Pharmacy Association (PPA) has named Pete Johnson, Pharm.D., BCPPS, FPPA, FCCM, FASHP, as the 2026 recipient of the Richard A. Helms Award of Excellence in Pediatric Pharmacy Practice. Johnson is a Professor of Pharmacy Practice and President’s Associate Presidential Professor at the University of Oklahoma College of Pharmacy.

Established in 2006, the Richard A. Helms Award of Excellence in Pediatric Pharmacy Practice is one of PPA’s highest honors, recognizing individuals who demonstrate exemplary pediatric patient care and sustained, meritorious contributions to pediatric pharmacy practice. The award also acknowledges significant service to PPA, excellence in education, precepting, and mentorship, and meaningful contributions to scholarship and the advancement of new knowledge.

Johnson has built a distinguished career as a clinical pharmacist, clinical researcher, and educator in pediatric critical care. His clinical practice spans both the Pediatric Intensive Care Unit (PICU) and the Cardiac Intensive Care Unit (CICU) within the Presbyterian Health Foundation Heart Center at Oklahoma Children’s Hospital at OU Health (OCH). Through his work, Johnson has made a lasting impact on patient outcomes, trainee development, and the advancement of pediatric pharmacy practice at both the institutional and national levels.

The award recognizes Johnson’s longstanding commitment to improving pediatric care, mentoring the next generation of pharmacists, and contributing to the field through leadership, scholarship, and service.