More than half a century ago, lifelong friends Holly Ong ’77, MBA, RPh and Catherine Grady Sterk ’77, ’78, PharmD, FCSHP met at Pacific and quickly bonded over lifeguarding. Their friendship was solidified by studying together for organic chemistry. By the end of their first semester, the fun-loving pair had earned a reputation for harmless pranks and their ability to engage their classmates in social activities. Even now, the duo is greeted by fellow alumni with the phrase, “Here comes trouble.”

That high energy and gift for connecting with others carried them into successful, high-profile careers in the pharmaceutical industry, where they earned respect for their leadership, expertise and professionalism.

Dr. Sterk’s career spanned more than 15 years in health systems followed by nearly 25 years in the pharmaceutical industry, including senior leadership positions at Genentech.

One of her proudest accomplishments occurred in the mid-1990s while serving as a board member for the California Society of Health-System Pharmacists. By creatively framing the language of the legislation, the organization overcame strong external opposition and advanced the pharmacy profession in California.

“Kent Meilich and I were appointed to lead a statewide committee to rewrite pharmacy legislation,” said Dr. Sterk. “The goal was to give pharmacists legal authority to manage medications. I suggested adding the verbiage, ’For patients in a managed care plan.’ We got the act rewritten — and passed!”

Ong’s career was centered in pharmaceutical marketing and product development.

“I was the lead marketer for the launch of two innovative drugs, one in oncology and one in multiple sclerosis,” said Ong. “I interacted with medical thought leaders I never imagined I would have the opportunity to work with. Having a professional relationship with the world’s leading expert on multiple sclerosis was a highlight of my career.”

They credit their time at Pacific with giving them the courage to forge distinct career paths and step into leadership roles.

“The faculty fostered us as leaders,” Dr. Sterk said. “They gave us confidence. They held us accountable for our behavior, but they fostered what was unique about each of us.”

She added, “I wouldn’t have had the success or engaged in the roles I’ve experienced professionally if it hadn’t been for the school of pharmacy at UOP. It transformed my life.”

Today, the two classmates are investing in the next generation of leaders. Together they established the Powell-matched Holly Ong and Catherine Grady Sterk Positive Impact Leadership (PIL) Endowed Scholarship, which was awarded for the first time in July 2026.

At the heart of this scholarship is a clear purpose: to champion student leaders who actively strengthen community, foster a vibrant school culture and create memorable experiences for their peers.

“Diversity of ideas leads to better outcomes,” Ong said. “When you engage a broader group of voices, you get better ideas.” Dr. Sterk added, “The ability to engage others is very important, especially as a health care professional.”

Their enduring friendship is a testament to the power of shared laughter, mutual encouragement and a life well lived, at Pacific and far beyond.