Pharmacy Newsletter

Summer 2016
School of Pharmacy Class of 2019
The day of Commencement is always a glorious one – even when the weather in Denver isn’t! For our 82 graduates in the Class of 2016 the rain, sleet and wind didn’t dampen
their enthusiasm for heading out into the professional world of pharmacy. Early returns show that the new pharmacists are being successful in securing positions; in the exit
survey taken in April, 97% of their jobs were in the geographic area of preference and 93% in the type of practice setting preferred.
This class also kept the Regis tradition of exceeding the national average on the residency match alive and well. With 75% of those students participating matching in the first
round, this class, like all of our previous ones, beat the national average which was 69% this year. Overall, 30% of the Class of 2016 will be participating in PGY1 residencies
not only in the Denver area, but from Washington state to Florida and from Ohio State University to the University of Kansas.
The School continues to be exceptionally proud of our graduates – every class from 2013 to today. Regis pharmacists are doing well, moving into management positions,
making a name in the clinical setting. As a School, we want to know how all our alumni are doing and where they’re practicing. We need to establish better communications
links between the School and our alumni. This coming academic year we will be building a stronger presence on social media, improving the School’s website and working hard
to get the Regis pharmacy “brand” known. One way you as an alum can help is to make sure we have your current e-mail address and to encourage your classmates, friends
and fellow alums to send us theirs. This will help assure that our expanding digital presence is available to everyone. We also want to let our Regis family know how you are
doing, maybe new jobs or new arrivals?! Pass on to us any news that we can include in our communications.
One more big CONGRATULATIONS to the Class of 2016 as they join the ranks of Regis pharmacists. Carry the banner proudly with the three classes before you and continue to
show how your Regis education translates into better care for your patients.
Rodney A. Carter, Pharm.D.
Dean, Regis University School of Pharmacy
SCHOOL OF
PHARMACY
Executive Editor: Rodney A. Carter, Pharm.D.
Dean, School of Pharmacy
Regis University
303-625-1300
Editor: Miki Goldwire, PharmD, MSc, BS, BCPS
Associate Professor, Department of Pharmacy Practice
Regis University, School of Pharmacy
[email protected]
Graduation
Members of the Class of 2016 participated in graduation ceremonies on Saturday, April 30.
RJ Yepez shakes Father Fitzgibbons’ hand after receiving his diploma.
Balar Wang beams after receiving his diploma.
Peter Nguyen dons a decorative cap.
Paul Kriegl smiles as he waits for the line to begin moving.
Dr. Robert Haight with Peter Nguyen.
Lynn Dang, Mary Lee, Lovelace Twumansi-Ankrah, and Andrea
Nguyen, celebrating the moment.
Dr. Matt Fete served as faculty marshal for the ceremony.
Lynn Dang, Belar Wang, and Abhi Dhruva smile for the camera
while waiting for the ceremony to begin.
Theresa Simpson, Tran Nguyen, Dr. Knutsen, Kelly Kreuter, and
Lynn Dang get ready for the ceremony to begin.
Enjoy a video produced by Jimmy Le, graduating pharmacy student:
https://youtu.be/ZWX645swYDw.
Graduation Banquet
Provost Dr. Janet Houser and Dr. Brain Hemstreet take time to smile
for the camera.
Members of the graduating class take time for a photo during the
graduation banquet. Left to right: Casey Pataluna, Kathleen Prince,
Marie Pankey, Mary Lee, and Breanna Sustaita.
Sara Eichner (center) smiles for the camera with her mom and
classmate, Michelle Maguire.
Mary Lee, Lovelace Twumasi-Ankrah, and Lynn Dang.
Faculty members, Dr. Megan Leeds, Dean Rod Carter, and Dr. Pete
Clapp smile for the camera.
Students Abhi Dhruva and Michelle Maguire with Dr. Jeff Lalama.
John Le poses with Dr. Shannon Knutsen.
Students Vanessa Jamison, Kathleen Prince, and Jasmine McCafferty
smile for the camera.
School of Pharmacy Valedictorian
The valedictorian is the student who achieved the highest academic rank in the graduating class and was honored at the graduation banquet.
This year’s valedictorian is Theresa Simpson.
Award Recipients
The School of Pharmacy held their annual award celebration this past April. Photographer: Annie Nguyen, pre-pharmacy student.
Excellence in Clinical Practice Award
This achievement celebrates the student who exemplifies excellence in clinical
achievement consistent with the mission of Regis University and the School of
Pharmacy; additionally, the student is one who above all other classmates has
shown exemplary clinical skills and attitude.
Award recipient Thomas Bendell with Dr. Rebecca Moote.
Excellence in Research Award
This award recognizes a student who developed, completed
and presented quality research as a pharmacy student.
Award recipient Justin Fahringer with Dr. Matt Fete.
Excellence in Leadership Award
This honor is awarded to the student who has shown considerable
involvement in student organizations as evidenced by elected leadership
roles, organization of events, and service to the school; this student also
must be well respected as a leader among classmates.
Award recipient Amelia Nelson with Dr. Chris Malarkey.
Excellence in Living the Regis Mission
This award is given to the student who demonstrates magis (Latin term
meaning to the greater extent), practices integrity and respect for others,
exemplifies service to others with compassion and caring, demonstrates
cura personalis (care for the whole person) during experiential rotations
and service learning interactions, is socially responsible and committed to
advancing social justice and community engagement.
Award recipient Kristine Luong with Dr. Robert Haight.
Award of Excellence in Clinical Communication
This award is offered through Wolter’s-Kluwer Clinical Drug Information and awarded to a
student who demonstrates high academic achievement and outstanding communication
skills. The student will receive a free one-year subscription to Facts & Comparisons
eAnswers online drug reference and Lexi-Complete mobile app from Lexicomp.
Award recipient Alfredo Guzman with Dr. Michele Hanselin.
Mylan Excellence in Pharmacy Award
This award is offered from Mylan Pharmaceutical and awarded
to a student who demonstrates excellence in drug information.
Award recipient Theresa Simpson with Wayne Sylvester, Executive
Professional Sales Representative at Mylan Specialty, LP.
Susan M. Paulsen Heart and Soul Award
The Susan M. Paulsen Heart and Soul Award is given to students who, above
all other classmates and in the eyes of faculty and peers, bring out the
best in others, demonstrate outstanding leadership, recognize the good in
all situations, practice reflection, balance responsibilities and roles, excel
as listeners, and above all else, are the heart and soul of their graduating
class. This year’s award recipient is Matt Guzmer.
Outstanding Performance on an APPE
Given to the student who has demonstrated outstanding
performance during the fourth professional year. This year’s
award recipient is Alexander Nguyen.
Excellence in Pharmacy Practice
This award is given by the members of the Department of Pharmacy Practice and is
provided to that student who demonstrates enthusiasm for pharmacy practice topics,
defined as: seeks out additional information, experiences, knowledge, engages in class
discussions and routinely asks thought-provoking, probing questions in the classroom.
Award recipient Audra Wilson with Dr. Marta Brooks, Chair Department of
Pharmacy Practice.
S. Dean Allison Department of Pharmaceutical
Sciences
This award is given by the members of the Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences
and is named after an esteemed colleague, Dr. Dean Allison, who lost his battle with
amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), also known as Lou Gehrig’s disease.
Award recipient Sara Eichner with Mrs. Donna Allison, Dean’s mother, and in
the background, Dean’s brother Doug Allison, and Dr. Michael Nelson, Chair
Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences.
Alpha Sigma Nu
Alpha Sigma Nu, a Jesuit National Honor Society, honors students
who distinguish themselves in scholarship, loyalty to the ideals
of Jesuit education and service to others while attending a Jesuit
college or university. This year’s inductees are Jeannette Bouchard,
Amelia Nelson, Cassandra Hanna, Kelly Stone, Abigail Taylor, Audra
Wilson, Nyles Fowler, and Megan Willis
American Academy of Managed Care Pharmacy
Given in recognition of outstanding leadership and service to a member of the student
chapter of the American Academy of Managed Care Pharmacy.
Award recipient Lindsay Ross with chapter faculty advisor, Dr. Karen Smith.
American Association of Pharmaceutical Sciences
Given in recognition of outstanding leadership and service to a member of the student
chapter of the American Association of Pharmaceutical Sciences.
Award recipient Derrick Waller with chapter faculty advisor, Dr. Stephanie
James.
American College of Clinical Pharmacy
Given in recognition of outstanding leadership and service to a member of the student
chapter of the American College of Clinical Pharmacy.
Award recipient Amelia Nelson with chapter faculty advisor,
Dr. Michele Hanselin.
College of Psychiatric and Neurologic
Pharmacists Award
Given in recognition of outstanding leadership and service to a member of the
student chapter of the College of Psychiatric and Neurologic Pharmacists.
Award recipient Melanie Sherlock with Dr. Megan Leeds.
National Community Pharmacists Association
Member of Excellence
Given to the student who made the greatest contribution to the Regis University School
of Pharmacy National Community Pharmacists Association Student Chapter.
Award recipient Sara Eichner with faculty advisor Dr. Charlotte Ricchetti.
National Community Pharmacists Association
Outstanding Member of the Year
Given to the student in recognition for the work to promote independent pharmacy in
the previous school year.
Award recipient Sara Mirzaei with faculty advisor Dr. Charlotte Ricchetti.
Phi Delta Chi
Given in recognition of brotherhood, service, leadership and advancing the Gamma Rho
Chapter of Phi Delta Chi.
Award recipient Tylor Heilman with faculty advisor, Dr. Pete Clapp.
Phi Lambda Sigma Delta Chi Chapter Excellence
in Leadership
Given to the student who made the greatest contribution and leadership to the
Phi Lambda Sigma Delta Chi Chapter.
Award recipient Stefanie Gann with faculty advisor Dr. Shannon Knudsen.
Student National Pharmaceutical Association
Given in recognition of outstanding leadership and service to the goals set forth by the
Student National Pharmaceutical Association.
Award recipient John Le with Dr. Pete Cogan and Dr. Erika Freitas.
Society of Health-System Pharmacist
Given in recognition of outstanding leadership and service to the goals set forth by the
Student Society of Health-System Pharmacist.
Award recipient Stefanie Gann with faculty advisor Dr. Chad Martell and Dr.
Allana Sucher.
Scholarship Recipients
JP Prescription Drug Awareness Scholarship
The recipient of this award, chosen from the School of Pharmacy at either Regis University, the University
of Colorado, or the University of Wyoming will receive a scholarship of $5000 split over one academic year
and will donate 20 hours per year to the JP Prescription Drug Awareness Foundation. This year’s recipient
from Regis University is Megan Willis.
About the JP Prescription Drug Awareness Foundation
By Karen Hill, Executive Director
On September 25th 2012, our loving son, brother and friend passed away in his sleep
because of the mixture of prescribed medications he was taking. The dosage of both
individual medications was not lethal. What was lethal was the combination of opiates
and benzodiazepines. It was an accident; but, more importantly it was pointless and very
avoidable. We are a family that has lost one of their own and now wants to do something
about it. We want to help other families avoid what we have gone through. We want to
help our community, city, state and nation become more aware and responsible about
prescription drugs. Some basic education and awareness about the mixture of certain
prescription drugs could have prevented this death. For this reason, this foundation
wants to create educational programs and awareness campaigns to help reduce and even
eliminate accidental deaths from prescription drugs. We also want to help improve the
requirements and legislation that govern the prescription drug process. We believe that
doctors should be required to disclose all possible dangers of mixing prescription drugs
before prescribing them. We believe doctors should be better educated in this matter
and be held more accountable. Our foundation will work to help influence political and
legislative decisions regarding the rigor around the prescription drug process. Lastly, we
would like to assist in the research of potentially finding safer prescription drugs that
will not interact with other drugs in such a dangerous manner. This foundation has been
established in JP’s name because he will constantly personify our cause. He is our driving
force to make the world a safer place. This foundation is exclusively for charitable and
educational purposes.
Dr. Bobbi Miller, Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, Regis University,
Megan Willis, and Karen Hill, Executive Director, JP Awareness Prescription Drug
Abuse Foundation.
CVS Scholarship
This scholarship is awarded for interest in pursuing a career in retail pharmacy, specifically to a student who can identify the opportunities and
barriers to providing patient-centered care services in community pharmacy. This year’s recipients are Linda Truong, Samantha Valdez, and Uyen Le.
Uyen Le with Dr. Christine Feltman
Samantha Valdez with Dr. Christine Feltman
Kent M. Nelson Clinical Pharmacy Scholarship
This recipient of this scholarship has demonstrated a great interest in clinical pharmacy practice and plans to pursue a career in this field.
This individual also is involved in the community and active in student and professional organizations.
Recipient Suzette Rovelsky receives his award from Dr. Sheila Botts,
Clinical Pharmacist with Kaiser.
Recipient Brady Brown receives his award from Dr. Sheila Botts,
Clinical Pharmacist with Kaiser.
P1 Excellence Scholarship
Every year, students apply to be accepted into the School of Pharmacy. Students
who stand out during the interview process are awarded a scholarship; specifically,
students received a unanimous “yes” from more than eight interviewees, or an
interviewee thought the candidate worthy of a scholarship. In addition, the candidate
received a score of > 60 on his/her PCAT (Pharmacy College Admission Test), a math
GPA of > 3.2, a passing essay score and no absolute “nos” for their interview.
Recipient(s): Susan Hegstrom, Aileen Ludesirishoti, Tyler Twardoski, Scott King, David
Hymel, Rachel Linsin, Henry Luma with Dr. Brian Hemstreet, Assistant Dean Student
Affairs. Not pictured: Lalia Kamsin, Thomas Pickens, and Kuriko Sakai.
Regis School of Pharmacy Principled Scholarship
The Principled Scholarship seeks to reward that student who exemplifies empathy and
leadership as well as social and cultural sensitivity while being willing to accept the
crucial role that pharmacists play in achieving a common good within society.
Dr. Erika Freitas with award recipient, Audra Wilson.
Rx Plus Scholarship
The Rx Scholarship goes to students who are currently members of the NCPA and has
plans to pursue a career in independent community pharmacy. This year’s award recipients
are Sydney Gaffin, Maggie Lu, Sara Mirzaei, Robert Schultz, and Derrick Waller.
RxPlus Dennis Mantas Memorial Scholarship
The Dennis Mantas Memorial Scholarship, sponsored by RxPlus Scholarship Foundation
is awarded to a student considering a career in independent community pharmacy.
This scholarship is in honor of Dennis Mantas, a long-time Colorado community
pharmacist and RxPlus board member. The Dennis Mantas Memorial Scholarship is
offered through the Regis University NCPA student chapter. This $5000 scholarship
is awarded to a student who best exemplifies leadership and service to his/her
community and is a current member of NCPA.
Recipient Megan Willis receives the Dennis Mantas Memorial Scholarship
from Mr. Grant Kinn, RPh, Executive Director RxPlus Pharmacies.
Safeway Scholarship
The Safeway Scholarship goes to those students of racial or ethnic groups underrepresented in
the field of pharmacy. This year’s recipients are Sang Lee, Rommel Fontanilla, and Eric Furuya.
Sang Lee receives the Safeway Scholarship award from Dr. Robert Willis, district manager.
Rommel Fontanilla receives the Safeway Scholarship award from Dr. Robert Willis,
district manager.
Eric Furuya receives the Safeway Scholarship award from Dr. Robert Willis, district manager.
Walgreens Diversity and Inclusion Excellence Award
The Walgreens Diversity Scholarship is awarded to a student who embraces diversity
and promotes diversity and inclusion initiatives on campus.
Hanh Wenger receives the Walgreens Diversity and Inclusion Excellence Award from Dr.
Stephanie James.
Walgreens Diversity Scholarship
As an organization committed to the education and professional development of the most accessible and trusted health care providers in
communities across America, the Walgreens Diversity Scholarship is awarded to one or more students of an underrepresented minority group
in the field of pharmacy who shows a demonstrated commitment to community pharmacy. This year’s recipients include Brandon Kondo,
Jonathon Nguyen, and Briana Stapornkul.
Recipient Jonathon Nguyen with Dr. Stephanie James.
Recipient Brandon Kondo with Dr. Stephanie James.
Student Activities
National Community Pharmacists Association (NCPA)
By Megan Willis
The Regis University NCPA student chapter used educational materials from Cardinal Health’s
Generation Rx toolkit to educate undergraduate students on the dangers of misusing and abusing
prescription medications, as well as proper medication disposal. NCPA was able to educate
over 50 undergraduate students using trivia questions as a way to strike up conversation about
these topics. The NCPA chapter provided handouts regarding frequently asked questions and
information to better inform the public about this growing epidemic. The pharmacy students who
volunteered their time to provide this valuable education to the Regis undergraduate community
included: Brooke Burns, Rachel Franklin, Sydney Gaffin, Sara Mirzaei, and Megan Willis.
Rachel Franklin and Brooke Burns
Sydney Gaffin and Sara Mirzaei
Phi Lambda Sigma
Rho Chi Induction
The Delta Chi Chapter of Phi Lambda Sigma (PLS) inducted its newest
members this past spring. PLS is a pharmaceutical leadership society
and recognizes those students and faculty at Regis University who have
a strong dedication to leadership, and who have high moral character
both in and out of the classroom.
Rho Chi is the national honor society for schools of pharmacy. Members
are in the top 20 percent of their class. New members were inducted
this past spring. New members of Rho Chi include Class of 2016: Sarah
Joseph and Alexander Nguyen; Class of 2017: Brandon Kondo and
Jordan Lo; Brooke Burns, Lily Cruickshank, Leanne Ertle, Idana Espinoza,
Rachel Franklin, Sangkuk Lee, Trung Leong, Hasna Nadifi, Viet Nguyen,
Denise Patten, Breanna Vose, Class of 2018.
By Nyles Fowler, chapter president
The ceremony was facilitated by ceremony officiates: Dr. Shannon
Knutsen, Regis PLS Delta Chi faculty advisor, Nyles Fowler, Regis PLS
President, Audra Wilson, Regis PLS Vice President, Megan Willis, Regis
PLS Treasurer, and Jeannette Bouchard, Regis PLS Secretary.
The following students and faculty were nominated by student and
faculty and were inducted:
• Class of 2016: Sara Eichner, Kristine Dang Vy Luong, Sheelia Maree Whitaker, Heidi Yu
• Class of 2017: Paul C. Cornelison, Lauren A. Nickell, Melanie
Sherlock, Briana Stapornkul, Kelly Stone, Abigail Taylor, Linda Truong,
Samantha Valdez, Derrick Waller
• Class of 2018: Gina Kim (Secretary), Rebecca Porter (President),
Suzette Rovelsky (Vice President), Meigan E. Yuen (Treasurer)
• Faculty: Dr. Rodney A. Carter, Dr. Matthew G. Fete, Dr. Erika L. Freitas,
Dr. Robert C. Haight
Members of Rho Chi pose for a picture.
This year’s inductees were the latest to become members of the Delta
Chi Chapter of PLS. There is no greater honor that can be bestowed upon
an individual than to be recognized as a leader by one’s peers.
Faculty members Drs. Jeff Lalama, Megan Leeds, and Dan Berlau
with former faculty member Dr. Lauren Burt, guest speaker.
Colorado Pharmacists Society
.
Paul Cornelison received the Colorado
Pharmacists Society Student of the Year
Award at the CPS Annual meeting from Dr.
Michelle Hillaire (Ft. Collins)
Dr. Rebecca Moote received the CPS Pharmacist
of the Year Award.
The Regis SOP team won the 2016 CPS Jeopardy against CU this year. From left to right: Lance
Nelson, Kelly Stone, Jill Allison, Nyles Fowler, Cassandra Hanna, and Jeannette Bouchard.
Student Government
Members of student government hosted an international food night.
College of Psychiatric and Neurologic
Pharmacists (CPNP)
Members of CPNP attended the annual meeting held at
the Broadmoor in Colorado Springs this past April. Left to
right: Risa Ramirez, Andrea Reinig, Melanie Sherlock, Nate
Schoenauer, Dr. Wackernah, Jordan Lo, and Jiwon (Genie) Lee.
Drs. Dan and Elise Berlau, Scott King and Kristen Rowe.
Nyles Fowler, Megan Willis, and Lisa Calliham
Shane and Jill Lilley with their son John Ross, Audra Wilson and Johnny
Sandoval (Audra’s boyfriend), and Jeannette Bouchard
9 News Health Fair
The 9Health Fair – Colorado’s largest nonprofit, volunteer-driven health fair – was held at Regis
University this past April. Several pharmacy students participated in events.
Bobby Truong reviews information with patients
while working in the foot health station.
Jeanette Bouchard wearing her white coat talks
with patients.
Rebecca Swayngim, Bojana Sprajcer, and Luke
Theis assisted with the bone health station by
providing information on supplements used to
promote bone health.
Lindsay Ryan helps with the check-out
procedure.
Leo Vuong and Ji Won Lee help with the
check-in station.
Lauren Nickell (far right) prepares for the day
with other students.
First year students, CamLinh Vu and Leo Vuong
smile for a photo during the health fair.
Dr. Jeff Lalama, Brittanii Prahl, and Meigan Yuen
smile for the camera while working a 9 Health
Fair in Denver at the Ask a Pharmacist booth.
Habitat for Humanity
Several School of Pharmacy faculty members helped build a house with Habitat for Humanity.
Habitat for Humanity is a non-profit organization whose members help to build or repair homes
for affordable housing worldwide. In its 33-year history, members of Habitat for Humanity of Metro
Denver have built 500 homes through community engagement. The homes are energy-efficient and
made affordable to low-income families with zero-interest loans and low mortgage payments.
Faculty member, Dr. Michael Nelson uses his carpentry skills.
Faculty Accomplishments and Recognitions
Hanselin MR, Martell CW, Knutsen S, Haight RC, Moote R. Development of a capstone course to improve student confidence and pharmacotherapy
knowledge prior to advanced pharmacy practice experiences. Curr Pharm Teach Learn. 2016;8(3):323-331.
Nelson M. Team-based learning in the UK: the faculty experience. Poster presentation. Regis University Celebration of Research, Scholarship, and
Creative Excellence, Denver, CO; April 2016.
Sucher A. Update on sexually transmitted diseases treatment guidelines. Colorado Pharmacists Society Meeting; Aurora, CO: June 2016.
Sullivan PW, Skup M, Mittal M, Terasawa E, Macaulay D, Chao J. The impact of pharmaceutical manufacturer copay cards on patient access to
biologics. Poster presented at the AMCP Annual Meeting, San Francisco, CA; April 2016.
Sullivan PW, Skup M, Mittal M, Terasawa E, Macaulay D, Chao J. The impact of pharmaceutical manufacturer copay cards on patient access to
biologics. Poster presented at the AMCP Annual Meeting, San Francisco, CA; April 2016.
Sullivan PW, Ghushchyan V, Campbell J, Globe G, Bender B, Magid D. Measuring the cost of poor asthma control and exacerbations. J Asthma.
2016; Jun 10;PubMed PMID: 27286240.
Taylor A*, Shea L. Examining health claims provided on dietary supplement packaging. Poster presentation. Regis University Celebration of
Research, Scholarship, and Creative Excellence, Denver, CO; April 2016.
Wachernach R, Smith K, Lo J*, Milhorn L. Effectiveness of tobacco cessation classes in adult psychiatric patients. Poster presented at the CPNP
Annual Meeting, Colorado Springs, CO; April 2016.
*school of pharmacy student
Jordon Lo presents at the CPNP Annual Meeting.
Dr. Leticia Shae with Abigail Taylor at the Regis University
Celebration of Research and Scholarship.
APhA members Peter J. Rice, PharmD, PhD, BCPS, FAPhA, of the University of Colorado Skaggs School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical
Sciences and Brandon Sucher, PharmD, BCACP, CDE, AE-C of the Regis University Rueckert-Hartman College for Health Professions
attended a reception in Denver, CO, recently for U.S. Representative Diana DeGette (D-CO) on behalf of the APhA Political Action
Committee (APhA-PAC).
Colorado Law Expands Opportunities for Pharmacists and Patients
Colorado Governor John Hickenlooper (D-CO) signed into law a bill that amends both the Pharmacy Practice Act and the Colorado Insurance
Code to expand practice opportunities for pharmacists, and provides a pathway for reimbursement of pharmacy services. Key items
under Senate Bill 16-135 include reimbursement opportunities for pharmacists who provide health care services otherwise provided by a
physician or advanced practice nurse, a provision that allows insurance plans to include pharmacists in their network of providers, and
an expansion of collaborative practice agreements. The bill will go into effect on August 10, 2016. Reproduced from APhA. Pharmacists
Provide Care. July 2016 Campaign Update.
Gov. Hickenlooper flanked by bill sponsors from Colorado Pharmacists Society, University of Colorado Skaggs School of Pharmacy and
Pharmaceutical Sciences, and Regis University School of Pharmacy (Dr. Rod Carter, Dean Regis University School of Pharmacy standing
behind Gov. Hickenlooper) as he signs bill into law.
Opioid Misuse Panel Discussion
By Dr. Marta Brooks
Several members of RHCHP collaborated to host an inter-professional panel discussion on the topic of opioid misuse and abuse to increase
awareness of this epidemic for Regis’s faculty and students on April 28, 2016. An inter-professional steering committee of 5 individuals
from RHCHP: Marta Brooks (SOP), Christine Feltman (SOP), Suzanne Holm (OT), Amy Rich (PT), and Shelene Thomas (PT) conceived and
developed the panel discussion topic, recruited the panelists, and arranged this highly successful event. The interprofessional discussion
was entitled Understanding Opioid Misuse, Abuse, and Our Patients. The panel included two external participants, Suzi Stolte and Rob
Valuck. Suzi is the Director of Marketing and Communications for the JP Prescription Drug Awareness Foundation and lost a daughter
to multidrug toxicity. Rob is the Coordinating Center Director from the Colorado Consortium for Prescription Drug Abuse Prevention. The
anchors of the program included several RHCHP Faculty: Roxanne England (Nursing), Christine Feltman (Pharmacy), Ira Gorman (PT),
Suzanne Holm (OT), and Joanna Stratton (Counseling). The panel presentation audience included ~ 70 individuals (mix of students
[majority] and faculty). The desired student learning outcomes included: 1) Recognize the magnitude of prescription medication misuse/
abuse, 2) Identify opportunities for inter-professional collaboration to manage the epidemic, and 3) Describe the potential role and
responsibility of each attendee in the prevention of prescription drug misuse/abuse. The program evaluations were overwhelmingly positive
and were completed by 44 (~63%) of participants. The comments indicate that the content delivered in the program met expectations and
created a great environment for learning about the magnitude of the opioid issues and how they touch practitioners on a daily basis. The
goal is to conduct a similar panel in the 2016 Fall Semester to capitalize on stated student interest from the initial panel.
Faculty of the Year
Students voted on their favorite faculty member. Congratulations to all faculty members!
P1 Class – Dr. Chris Malarkey with Scott King
P2 Class – Dr. Latoya Braun with Brady Brown and Cheng Chang
P3 Class – Dr. Shannon Knutsen with Audra Wilson and Derrick Waller
Staff Recognition
Two members of the School of Pharmacy were recognized
for their service to the school of pharmacy: Ms. Alyssa
Pettera, Administrative Assistant, and Mrs. Shonda Story,
Lab Assistant. Thank you for all your work and dedication
to the School of Pharmacy!
Faculty Promotions
The School of Pharmacy is pleased to announce that the
following faculty will be promoted in rank this August
following their successful rank committee review.
Promoted to Professor:
Dr. Brian Hemstreet, Department of Pharmacy Practice
Dr. Allana Sucher, Department of Pharmacy Practice
Promoted to Associate Professor:
Dr. Pete Cogan, Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences
Dr. Shannon Knutsen, Department of Pharmacy Practice
Dr. Megan Leeds, Department of Pharmacy Practice
School of Pharmacy Welcomes New
Members
Dr. Dan Berlau and his wife, Elise, welcomed Hendrik (Hank)
James Berlau this past May. Congratulations!
Alumni News
Residencies
Several School of Pharmacy graduating students matched to pharmacy practice residencies through the American Society
of Health-System Pharmacists (ASHP) Residency Match program and others participated in the scramble to secure a PGY1
Pharmacy Practice residency. Some Alumni were accepted into PGY2 residencies. Congratulations to everyone!
•
Thomas Bendell (PGY1) - TMC Healthcare, Tucson, AZ
•
Lynn Dang (PGY1) - Memorial Hermann Hospital System, Houston, TX
•
Sara Eichner (PGY1) - Banner Estrella Medical Center, Phoenix, AZ
•
Justin Fahringer (PGY1) - John C. Lincoln Medical Center, Phoenix, AZ
•
Megan Feeney (PGY2) - The Ohio State University Medical Center, Columbus, OH
•
Stefanie Gann (PGY1) - Renown Regional Medical Center, Reno, NV
•
Matthew Gutzmer (PGY1) - Stormont-Vail Healthcare, Topeka, KS
•
Alfredo Guzman (PGY1) - VA Eastern Colorado Healthcare System, Denver, CO
•
Tylor Heilman (PGY1) - Providence Centralia Hospital, Centralia, WA
•
Vanessa Jamison (PGY1) - MUSC Medical Center/South Carolina College of Pharm, Charleston, SC
•
Sarah Joseph (PGY1) - Greenville Health System, Greenville, SC
•
Leila Khurshid (PGY1) - St. Mark’s Hospital, Salt Lake City, UT
•
Kelly Kreuter (PGY1) - Presbyterian/St. Luke’s Med/Rocky Mountain Hospital, Denver, CO
•
Kristine Luong (PGY1) - Dignity Health St. Rose Dominican - Siena Campus, Henderson, NV
•
Michelle Maguire (PGY1) - Swedish Medical Center, Englewood, CO
•
Amelia Nelson (PGY1) - Denver Health Medical Center, Denver, CO
•
Andrea Nguyen (PGY1) - VA Medical Center - San Francisco, San Francisco, CA
•
Leticia Ritz (PGY1) - Parkview Medical Center, Pueblo, CO
•
Noemi Schranz (PGY1) - Exempla Good Samaritan Medical Center, Lafayette, CO
•
Ashley Schuler (PGY1) - Denver Health Medical Center, Denver, CO
•
Theresa Simpson (PGY1) - Saint Joseph Hospital, Denver, CO
•
Adam Tormoehlen (PGY1) - University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, KS
•
Phu Trinh (PGY1) - Providence Sacred Heart, Spokane, WA
•
Lovelace Twumasi-Ankrah (PGY1) - Palm Beach Atlantic University, West Palm Beach, FL
•
Sheelia Whitaker (PGY1) - Kaiser Foundation Health Plan of Colorado, Aurora, CO
•
Heidi Yu (PGY1) - Swedish Medical Center, Seattle, WA
My APPE in Alaska
By Sara Mizarei, Class of 2017
For my first APPE block, I was able to spend six amazing weeks working at Soldotna Professional Pharmacy. With a beautiful backdrop
of snowcapped peaks, flowing rivers, and endless ocean, Soldotna Professional Pharmacy is set in the growing town of Soldotna,
Alaska. When the pharmacy’s founders, Tom and Lynn Holden, left their city lives in Minnesota for Soldotna 32 years ago, it was not
the burgeoning town it is today. Throughout the years, the Holden family’s involvement and dedication to not only their patients and
employees, but their entire community, has allowed Soldotna Professional Pharmacy to grow exponentially with the town. Despite selling
the business to the Kapuna Pharmacy Group in 2014, a unique sense of community remains strong. The people of Soldotna Professional
Pharmacy continue to foster the relationships and trust that make it the destination of choice for prescription and healthcare needs
for much of the Kenai Peninsula. As someone who would like to eventually own and operate a small-town, independent community
pharmacy, I could not imagine a better place for a rotation.
The size and volume served by this pharmacy allowed me to gain experience working with a wide variety of products and services
while interacting with a diverse population from all parts of the peninsula. Additionally, I was able to work within a large group of
individuals who sincerely cared for one another and worked exceptionally well as a team. From day one of my experience, everyone at
Soldotna Professional Pharmacy treated me as if I was a competent member of their team. Because of this dynamic, I was able to
directly contribute to many aspects of pharmacy operations. For example, during my first week I was able to practice and apply literature
evaluation and research skills to contribute to a pharmacy initiative aiming at developing a “Transitions of Care” collaborative program
with the local hospital. This was one of many progressive topics that I was able to research and share with the team.
The thing that truly set this rotation apart from others was getting to work with my preceptor, Dr. Justin Ruffridge (photo below). His
dedication to the practice and attitude towards advancing the profession of pharmacy in the independent setting was inspirational and
infectious. When asked why he takes APPE students, Dr. Ruffridge replied:
“Independent pharmacy has become a rare breed and I feel protective over keeping places like [Soldotna Professional Pharmacy] around.
I get to show [APPE students] the impact a place like this can have on its patients and they get to show me what is currently on the
forefront of pharmacy.”
During my time working with Dr. Ruffridge, I was able to see the extent of this impact firsthand; however, I quickly learned that it did not
come without resistance and challenges. Despite these challenges, Dr. Ruffridge was persistent in forging the relationships necessary
to ensure a healthy continuum of care for his patients. I was able to witness and participate in this process several times throughout
my rotation. One particular memorable experience was a meeting with a physician, nurse practitioner, and two medical assistants to
discuss some unconventional treatment protocols for which the pharmacy had been receiving prescriptions. Upon entering their office,
relations were tense, and I could feel that our presence was unwanted. Despite this, Dr. Ruffridge was able to focus the conversation
on best serving their patients’ needs, and by the end of the meeting a true collaborative triad of care had been established. Because
of this initially uncomfortable conversation, not only were we able to take back to the pharmacy a thorough understanding of the
treatment rationale that would allow us to properly counsel patients, but we were also able to contribute our pharmacy and compounding
expertise to adapt the regimens in a way that would improve adherence. This led to my favorite project of the experience. I was tasked
with developing a palatable dosage form for these therapies. I was able to research, develop, and optimize a formulation which I later
compounded and distributed to local prescribers for evaluation. It was exciting to see prescriptions sent in and filled for something that I
had directly contributed to the pharmacy.
My time at Soldotna Professional Pharmacy was truly a unique experience. This rotation allowed me to see the bigger picture of
independent pharmacy by bringing together the knowledge I learned in pharmacy school with the application of that knowledge to all
realms of patient care. I am so grateful to the team at Soldotna Professional Pharmacy, and especially to my preceptor, for making this
APPE one that I will never forget.
My APPE in Alaska (continued)
Preceptor Awards
By Dr. Christine Feltman
The Office of Experiential hosted a preceptor appreciation event. We had a great time networking with all of our wonderful preceptors.
We are grateful for everything that you all do for our students and it was a lot of fun to celebrate and recognize all your hard work and
dedication for the Regis University experiential program.
Our students share with us who they would like to recognize as the top preceptors of the year and winners are:
Community IPPE: Dr. Jennifer Larson- CVS Pharmacy inside Target
Institutional IPPE: Dr. Sandra Sanchez- Colorado Acute Long Term Care Hospital
Advanced Specialty IPPE: Dr. Lynn Nguyen- Denver Health
Acute Care APPE: Dr. Alyssa Franklin at Aspen Valley Hospital
Community APPE: Dr. Alexis Scherr at Walgreens
Institutional APPE: Dr. Inna Voinich at Indian Health Service in Pine Ridge, SD
Ambulatory APPE: Dr. Heather Hazeldine at Kaiser
Elective APPE of the Year: Dr. Julia Prince- Centura Administrative/Leadership
Faculty Preceptor of the Year: Dr. Jeff Lalama, Cardiology
Dr. Lynn Nguyen with members of the Denver Health team celebrate Lynn’s accomplishment of Advanced Specialty IPPE
preceptor of the year.
Experiential Update
Our 2016-2017 APPE year is quickly gaining momentum. After just two APPEs completed, we have been hearing about some amazing experiences had by
our students. They enjoy working with you and are excited about the hands-on experience and mentoring they are gaining. Thank you for all you do and
the time you devote to their learning.
As the fall semester begins we welcome you to come to campus and speak in our classroom about your site, your practice, and your APPE expectations. In
addition, if you are interested in learning more about our academic experiential program or would like to be more involved in providing your insights on
practice to our experiential office, we invite you to join the EAC (Experiential Advisory Committee). We meet quarterly in the evenings with dinner provided.
Our 2017-2018 APPE calendar is available on E*Value and we will be reaching out soon to see what rotations, (both IPPEs/APPEs) might work for you and
your teams. Thank you in advance for your willingness to take our students and share your practice expertise.
As always, if you know of a great pharmacist that is interested in becoming a preceptor, please have them reach out to us. Feedback about our program
and our students is always welcome. Please contact us by email at [email protected] or phone at (303) 625-1326.
Calendar of Events
August 17-19
New Student Orientation – Wednesday-Friday
August 22
Classes Begin – Monday
September 5
Labor Day (no classes) – Monday
September 15
Mass of the Holy Spirit (11 am – 1 pm) – Wednesday
September 24
Pharmacy Career Fair – Thursday