CougaRx News

Message From the Dean

Dear Friends and Colleagues,

Just like that, in a blink of an eye, the 2023-24 academic year is now over. I share with you great news and gratitude for the successful completion of another academic year.

Congratulations to the last Covid Class

This year, we celebrated the graduation of 108 outstanding students. Among them, 99 earned their Doctor of Pharmacy degrees, 8 completed their PhD, and 1 completed her MS. These students hold a special place in my heart. Our PharmD students started their first year of pharmacy school on Zoom, while I started my first year as dean of the college. We took a leap of faith together. I call them our last Covid class, and I am so proud to see so many of them go on to outstanding careers. These students started pharmacy school with so much uncertainty, and yet they thrived. Witnessing these bright, dedicated individuals don their hoods and embark on their professional journeys was a moment of immense pride and joy for us all. They are the future of our profession, and I am confident they will uphold and enhance the legacy of excellence that defines our alumni.

Futureproofing our Curriculum

We recently conducted a fruitful retreat focused on reviewing and enhancing our Doctor of Pharmacy curriculum. Our aim is to futureproof our program by integrating more interprofessional and real-world learning experiences. The retreat fostered dynamic discussions and innovative ideas, and we are now exploring ways to adapt our curriculum to better prepare our students for the evolving demands of the health care field. I thank the Medical College of Wisconsin, University of North Carolina, and University of Florida schools of pharmacy for sharing their experiences with curricular revision. Their insights and reflection about their curriculum have been invaluable in helping us thinking about ways to move our curriculum forward. These efforts are crucial in ensuring that our graduates remain at the forefront of the profession, equipped with the skills and knowledge needed to excel in a rapidly changing environment.

Executive Associate Dean Julie Akers

I am also delighted to announce the promotion of Julie Akers to Executive Associate Dean. In her new role, Julie will be leading the advancement of the college and making key decisions. Julie epitomizes what it means to be a Coug pharmacist. She is deeply committed to advancing the profession, is a fierce advocate for our students, and consistently works to build bridges that further our shared interests. Her dedication and vision will undoubtedly drive our college to new heights, and I am excited to see the impact of her leadership.

Dean’s Advisory Council Spring Session

A heartfelt thank you goes out to the members of our Dean’s Advisory Council for an excellent spring meeting. Your insights and guidance regarding the future of the pharmacy profession and research developments are invaluable. Your support helps us navigate the challenges ahead and seize new opportunities for growth and innovation.

September 6 Crimson Gala

As we head into the summer, we remain committed to connecting with our alumni and advancing our mission. We look forward to seeing many of you at the Crimson Gala on September 6. Please mark your calendars!

Thank you for your unwavering support and dedication to our college. Wishing you all a fantastic summer filled with joy and relaxation.

Sincerely,

Mark Leid (’83), Professor and Dean
WSU College of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences