National Hospital and Health System Pharmacy Week is Oct. 17-23. To highlight the vital role pharmacists play at Penn State Health, we feature Tadesse Bogale, a senior pharmacy technician at Penn State Health Milton S. Hershey Medical Center.

October 18, 2021Penn State Health Daily Brief

Many years and accomplishments separate Ethiopian-born Bogale from his days in a refugee camp. He is proud to have started a family tradition - his son, Kaleb, who was born the year Bogale started working in the pharmacy, is a fourth-year medical student at Penn State College of Medicine.

How I Got Here

I graduated from Addis Ababa University, in the capital city of Ethiopia, and worked as a high school teacher for several years. After the 1974 Ethiopian revolution, the military took power and declared socialism. The country was immersed in turmoil, and thousands were killed and imprisoned. The lucky ones, including me, escaped.

I spent a few years in a refugee camp in Sudan before applying for asylum and being accepted to come to America. I joined the Hershey Medical Center Pharmacy Department for the great benefits, but I've stayed here for 26 years because of the wonderful people and working environment.

What I Do in a Day

I work as a night shift pharmacy technician in the operating room/surgical intensive care unit pharmacy. My job responsibilities include refilling the anesthesia machines to ensure the operating room is prepared for surgery. I also perform quality assurance for narcotic waste. I enjoy the peaceful and quiet working environment of the night shift.

Why I'm Proud to Work for Penn State Health

I witnessed Hershey Medical Center's excellent patient care as a staff member and also through my wife's experience as a patient. I'm very proud to be part of this caring team.

How I Spend My Free Time

Reading and writing are my main hobbies. I'm very excited to have published my first book in June 2021! It's historical fiction on what happened in Ethiopia. On my days off, I enjoy spending time with my family, reading and writing.

On My Bucket List

In May 2022, our son will graduate from Penn State College of Medicine. Security permitting, we are planning a family vacation to Ethiopia next summer to spend time with our extended family and friends.

What Others Say About Tadesse

"Tadesse has an excellent work ethic and an easygoing personality. He is an inspiration to his co-workers for his dedication to his work." ~ Kerma Reiss, manager, Inpatient Pharmacy Services

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