The GI/Liver/Nutrition (GILN) PRN was founded on October 25, 1999 in Kansas City, Missouri in order to establish a network of clinical pharmacists interested in promoting and advancing practice, research, and education in the areas of gastrointestinal (GI) disease, liver disease, and nutrition. The founding officers, Rosemary R. Berardi (Chair), William R. Garnett (Secretary/Treasurer), Rex O. Brown (Nominations Committee Chair), and Susan Sorrells (Communication/Newsletter Committee Chair), along with 25 participants helped to lay the foundation for the GILN PRN, which was officially recognized 84 days later, on January 17, 2000.
The first official meeting of the GILN PRN reported 56 members. The GILN PRN membership has grown 400% since 2000. We have over 250 members, including practitioners, fellows, residents, and students. Members of the GILN PRN have made significant contributions to the profession: 140+ papers authored or co-authored by a PRN member, 40+ book chapters authored or co-authored by a PRN member, 120+ posters presented at meetings, and 300+ presentations at meetings. Additionally, many of our members hold certifications including BCPS, BCNSP, BCACP, BCCCP, CNSC, BCPPS, and CGP. We have members that are elected Fellows of ACCP, SCCM, ASPEN, and ASCP. Several of our members have also received various honors, awards, and grants for GILN-related research. The GILN PRN offers many opportunities for practitioners, residents, fellows, and students. These opportunities include travel awards for residents, fellows, and/or students, networking with experienced practitioners, and involvement in the leadership of the PRN, especially with the current push to expand the PRN onto social media.