Today we’d like to introduce you to Kimberly Diei.
Hi Kimberly, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today.
My battle against the University of Tennessee Health Science Center (UTHSC) College of Pharmacy was not just for me but for every student who believes in freedom of speech. It began when my personal social media posts, where I expressed my thoughts on topics relevant to young, black audiences, including sexuality, were deemed “crude,” “vulgar,” and “sexual” by the College’s Professional Conduct Committee. Despite never associating these posts with my status as a pharmacy student, I faced two investigations and an unjust expulsion from the program. This ordeal challenged my fundamental rights, compelling me to take a stand not only for my freedom of expression but also for the principles that underpin our democracy. With the support of the Foundation for Individual Rights and Expression (FIRE), I filed a lawsuit against the university officials, challenging the vague professionalism policies that stifled my voice and threatened my educational journey.
The journey through the legal system was arduous, yet it strengthened my resolve to ensure that no other student would have to censor their personal expression out of fear of institutional retribution. The lawsuit sought to affirm that students’ personal social media activity, when unconnected to their academic or professional duties, should not endanger their education. Although the district court initially dismissed our case, the appeal to the United States Court of Appeals for the Sixth Circuit was a pivotal moment, symbolizing the ongoing fight for our constitutional rights. This legal battle underscored the critical need for clear, just policies that respect students’ rights to free speech while navigating the complexities of professional conduct in higher education.
Amidst this legal battle, I remained dedicated to my studies, graduating in May 2023 from UTHSC College of Pharmacy with the unwavering support of my community, mentors, and peers. My success on the board examinations on my first attempt was a testament to my commitment and passion for pharmacy, paving the way for my current role as a beloved community pharmacist in the Memphis area. My journey from a pharmacy student embroiled in a fight for free speech to a healthcare professional serving my community embodies my belief that resilience, integrity, and the pursuit of justice are indispensable qualities in both personal and professional realms.
We all face challenges, but looking back, would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
Embarking on my journey to earn a Doctor of Pharmacy degree at the University of Tennessee Health Science Center’s College of Pharmacy, I found myself entangled in a battle that tested not just my academic resolve but also my right to freedom of expression. My aspirations were shadowed by a series of investigations into my personal social media activity, leading to an ordeal that placed me at the edge of expulsion and in the heart of a legal struggle for my First Amendment rights.
In September 2019, just a month after I had started my program, an administrator informed me that an anonymous complaint had been lodged against my Instagram and Twitter accounts. This marked the beginning of what would be a harrowing experience with the college’s Professional Conduct Committee. Despite the personal and non-academic nature of my posts, which often touched on themes of sexuality and empowerment, the committee deemed them “crude” and “sexual,” claiming they violated unspecified university policies. I was coerced into writing a letter of reflection, a process that felt both invasive and dismissive of my rights to personal expression and autonomy.
Less than a year later, the specter of censorship returned with a second investigation. This time, specific tweets of mine were scrutinized, including playful engagement with the song “WAP” by Cardi B and Megan Thee Stallion and a humorous reference to a Beyoncé song. My participation in these cultural discussions, conducted under a pseudonym and without any identification of my student status, was nonetheless seen as a breach of professionalism by the committee. In September 2020, just days into the academic year, I was confronted with the unanimous decision to expel me from the program.
The decision was overturned a month later, following intervention from the Foundation for Individual Rights in Education (FIRE), yet the damage to my academic journey and personal well-being had been done. Faced with the chilling effect of potential further investigations and punitive actions for simply engaging in online discourse, I took a stand not just for myself but for all students whose personal expression becomes unfairly entangled with their academic and professional pursuits. I filed a First Amendment lawsuit against the university, challenging the constitutional validity of their actions and seeking to prevent future infringements on student expression.
This ordeal was not just about my right to suggest lyrics for a Cardi B remix on social media; it was a testament to the broader struggle for personal freedom against institutional overreach. As I navigated this challenging period, the support from FIRE and the broader community was instrumental in reaffirming the principle that one’s professional aspirations and personal expressions are not mutually exclusive realms but facets of a whole individual deserving of respect and protection.
My journey through the pharmacy program became more than a pursuit of academic and professional excellence; it evolved into a pivotal fight for the rights of students to freely express themselves without fear of unjust reprisal. It underscored the importance of standing firm in one’s convictions and the enduring value of free speech in the fabric of our society.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
As a community pharmacist in Memphis, my work revolves around providing essential healthcare services to the local community. I specialize in medication management, patient education, and ensuring that individuals receive the right medications tailored to their needs.
One aspect I’m particularly proud of is my commitment to personalized patient care. I strive to build strong relationships with my patients, taking the time to listen to their concerns and providing them with comprehensive medication counseling. This personalized approach helps ensure that each individual understands their medications and can manage their health effectively.
In addition to my focus on patient care, I am known for my involvement in community health initiatives. Whether it’s participating in health fairs, conducting medication reviews for underserved populations, or collaborating with local healthcare providers, I am dedicated to improving the overall health and well-being of the community.
What sets me apart from others is my dedication to staying updated with the latest advancements in pharmacy practice and technology. I continuously seek out opportunities for professional development and strive to incorporate evidence-based practices into my work.
Overall, I take pride in being a trusted healthcare resource for the community, providing compassionate care, and making a positive impact on the lives of those I serve.
Are there any books, apps, podcasts, or blogs that help you do your best?
TikTok is my favorite app because it genuinely helps me do my best in life. It’s not just about mindlessly scrolling through endless videos; it’s about finding inspiration, motivation, and valuable insights that push me forward. Whether I’m learning new cooking techniques, discovering workout routines, or getting tips on productivity and self-improvement, TikTok is like a treasure trove of knowledge and creativity.
What sets TikTok apart for me is its ability to deliver bite-sized content that’s both entertaining and educational. I can easily consume valuable information in just a few seconds, making it perfect for my busy lifestyle. Plus, the diverse community of creators on TikTok means there’s always something new and exciting to explore.
But it’s not just about consuming content; TikTok also encourages me to be more creative and expressive. Whether I’m sharing my own cooking experiments, showcasing my artistic talents, or simply sharing my thoughts and experiences, TikTok gives me a platform to connect with others and share my passions.
Overall, TikTok helps me be my best self by keeping me motivated, inspired, and connected. It’s more than just a social media app; it’s a valuable tool for personal growth and self-expression.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kimmykasi
- Other: https://www.tiktok.com/@kimmykasi
Image Credits
Clyde Sims Jr.
