School of Pharmacy News & Media Center | The University of Mississippi

Recent News

Pharmacy School Announces Alumni of the Year
Three honored during annual alumni reunion

April 5, 2024

OXFORD, Miss. – This month, the University of Mississippi School of Pharmacy will recognize three of its alumni for their career accomplishments during the annual Pharmacy Alumni Reunion.

This year’s honorees include 2024 Distinguished Alumni Award winners Meg Pearson and Debbie Minor and 2024 Early Career Alumni Award winner Alexandre Raymond.

Pharmacy Professor Named Community Engaged Fellow
Distinction honors commitment to enhancing pharmacy services

April 3, 2024

OXFORD, Miss. – Pharmacy professor Lindsey Miller has been named a Community Engaged Fellow by the University of Mississippi’s Center for Community Engagement as a result of her commitment to keeping community engagement at the forefront of her work both in the classroom and in the pharmacy setting.

The program is an interdisciplinary, intercollegiate community of practice designed to further institutionalize and support engaged teaching and scholarship performed in mutually beneficial and equitable collaboration with communities.

University Rho Chi Chapter Named Finalist for National Award
Professor to serve as national treasurer for honor society

April 2, 2024

OXFORD, Miss. – The University of Mississippi School of Pharmacy chapter of the Rho Chi Pharmacy Honor Society continues to build upon its reputation of excellence, with the chapter being named among finalists for the society’s 2022-2023 Chapter Achievement Award.

The Chapter Achievement Award recognizes the full scope of chapter activities as documented in the Annual Chapter Report. Chapter reports are comprehensive in nature, describing the breadth of activities and accomplishments by the chapter over the preceding 12 months.

Celebrating Women’s History Month Spotlight on Dean Emeritus Barbara Wells

March 22, 2024

OXFORD, Miss. – Dr. Barbara Wells, first female dean of the School of Pharmacy

Q: When did you serve as dean?
A: I was fortunate to become dean of the School of Pharmacy in June of 2001, and I remained in that position for 10.5 years.

Celebrating Women’s History Month
Spotlight on Vice Chancellor Emerita Alice Clark

Alice Clark was awarded one of the early contracts in AIDS studies by the National Institutes of Health to search for new antifungal agents, and she continued this work throughout most of her UM career. Photo by Ole Miss Digital Imaging Services

March 19, 2024

OXFORD, Miss. – Dr. Alice M. Clark, first female director of the National Center for Natural Products Research

Q: When did you serve as director of the NCNPR?
A: From 1995 to 2001.

Q: What did it mean to you to serve as the center’s first female director? Was it something you thought about?
A: I was honored, yet humbled and more than a little anxious since it was my first official administrative position. Fortunately, I had the support of a lot of great people.

Pharmacy Professor Named To NIH-Funded Entreprenurial Cohort

March 2, 2024

OXFORD, Miss. – A University of Mississippi scientist has joined an inaugural cohort of entrepreneurs that will work to translate discoveries made at educational institutions into commercial products.

David Colby, professor of medicinal chemistry and research professor in the Research Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, has been named to the National Institutes of Health-funded, competitive IDeA Regional Entrepreneurship Development, or I-RED, program.

Pharmacy Resident Secures Grant for Diabetes Study

March 1, 2024

OXFORD, Miss. – University of Mississippi School of Pharmacy PGY-2 resident Amy Ly-Ha has secured funding through the American Pharmacists Association Foundation to study glucose monitoring in patients with type 2 diabetes.

The $1,000 grant will cover one year of research, which will specifically investigate the use of continuous glucose meters versus traditional self-monitoring of blood glucose in patients with type 2 diabetes who are newly initiated on basal insulin, not on prandial insulin, with or without oral antidiabetic agents.

Three Pharmacy Alumni Named to 40 Under 40 List

March 1, 2024

OXFORD, Miss. – Three alumni of the University of Mississippi School of Pharmacy have been named to the Ole Miss Alumni Association’s annual 40 Under 40 list.

Caroline Bobinger, Anna Touchstone and Andrew Mays are each featured on the association’s 2024 list, which celebrates the personal, professional and philanthropic achievements of successful university graduates.

Research Day Participation Continues Upward Climb
Attendance jumps more than 58 percent from 2022

February 29, 2024

OXFORD, Miss. – The University of Mississippi School of Pharmacy’s 2024 Research Day saw a significant jump in participation from just two years ago.

Hosted by the pharmacy school, the Research Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences and Rho Chi, this year’s event showcased 95 poster submissions, a 58 percent increase from 60 posters in 2022.

Pharmacy Professors Elected to National Leadership Roles
Haines, Wagner to head AACP groups

February 29, 2024

OXFORD, Miss. – University of Mississippi School of Pharmacy professors Seena Haines and Jamie Wagner will assume leadership roles within the American Association of Colleges of Pharmacy after being elected by their peers.

“It’s wonderful to see two members of our faculty elected to serve in these positions,” said Donna Strum, dean of the School of Pharmacy. “What that says to me is that their peers in AACP see the same thing we do at the School of Pharmacy – very capable, knowledgeable and hardworking members of our profession who will no doubt excel as AACP leaders.”

Celebrating Black History Month
Spotlight on father-son pharmacy duo Billy and Isaiah Brown

February 22, 2024

OXFORD, Miss. – Billy Brown, Pharm.D. 1998

Current position:

Clinical pharmacy practitioner at the G.V. (Sonny) Montgomery VA Medical Center in Jackson and adjunct faculty and preceptor for the UM School of Pharmacy. In this role, I have the privilege of caring for veterans by managing disease states such as HIV, diabetes, hypertension and hyperlipidemia.

How well do you feel the UM School of Pharmacy prepared you for your career?

The SOP helped me develop fundamental knowledge and skills that have allowed me to experience a wonderful career.

Celebrating Black History Month
Spotlight on sisters Delaney and Jessica Wilson

February 14, 2024

OXFORD, Miss. – Delaney Wilson, EE3
Jessica Wilson, P2
Hometown: Walls, Miss.

Why did you choose Ole Miss pharmacy?

DW: I live in Mississippi and I want to be a pharmacist. It was a no-brainer to choose Ole Miss pharmacy, which happens to be one of the highest ranked pharmacy schools.

JW: Being relatively close to home and still being able to pursue my career path at a highly ranked program was an opportunity I could not refuse.

Celebrating Black History Month
Spotlight on father-daughter pharmacy duo Marvin and Makaili Robinson

February 13, 2024

OXFORD, Miss. – Makaili Robinson, P1 student
Hometown: Batesville, Miss.

Why did you choose Ole Miss pharmacy?

I chose Ole Miss pharmacy because it’s home to me. I have been surrounded by Ole Miss all my life, especially since both of my parents are esteemed alumni of the university. It was also a plus that I was going to the same school as my dad did a little over 20 years ago. I was so confident in my decision about UMSOP that I didn’t apply anywhere else. Y’all are stuck with me.

American Pharmacists Association Leader to Deliver Hartman Lecture

February 1, 2024

OXFORD, Miss. – Michael D. Hogue, executive vice president and chief executive officer of the American Pharmacists Association, will present the 2024 Charles W. Hartman Memorial Lecture on March 1 at the University of Mississippi.

Hosted by the School of Pharmacy, the annual lecture will begin at noon in Room 1000 of the Thad Cochran Research Center. The event will also be live-streamed via Zoom. Hogue’s presentation, “Hope in the Face of Uncertainty,” is free and open to the public.

Pharmacy Researcher to Use $2M NIH Grant to Study How Drugs Work in the Body

Joshua Sharp. Photo by Thomas Graning/Ole Miss Digital Imaging Services

January 31, 2024

OXFORD, Miss. – The National Institutes of Health has awarded University of Mississippi School of Pharmacy Professor Josh Sharp roughly $1.9 million to develop technologies for measuring how proteins work and interact with other biomolecules.

The Research Project Grant funding covers four years of research, expiring in August 2027. The RO1 is the original and oldest grant mechanism used by NIH, and provides support for health-related research and development based on the organization’s mission.

Read More: Pharmacy Researcher to Use $2M NIH Grant to Study How Drugs Work in the Body

Pharmacy School Hosts First Open House for State’s Career Coaches

January 31, 2024

OXFORD, Miss. – Fifty of Mississippi’s public high school career coaches recently attended the University of Mississippi School of Pharmacy’s inaugural open house held just for those tasked with guiding the state’s high school students to future success in the job market.

“The School of Pharmacy’s open house was an outstanding success,” said Kristy Luse, who attended on behalf of the CREATE Foundation in Tupelo.

Pharmacy School Awarded Grant to Fight Addiction Stigma

January 31, 2024

OXFORD, Miss. – A $5 million grant secured by the University of Mississippi’s William Magee Institute for Student Wellbeing is allowing the School of Pharmacy to tackle addiction stigma in Mississippi’s healthcare system.

The Magee Institute secured the funding from the Office of National Drug Control Policy. The overall project is housed in the institute’s Jackie and Faser Triplett Center for AOD Research. Meagan Rosenthal, associate professor in the Department of Pharmacy Administration and interim director of the Magee Institute, is the project’s principal investigator.

Pharmacy School Secures NASA Grants

December 13, 2023

OXFORD, Miss. – Thanks to seed grants awarded through NASA’s Mississippi Space Grant Consortium, six first-year students in the University of Mississippi School of Pharmacy are conducting innovative research on space medicine.

Each $33,000 grant was secured through the organization’s Student Led STEM Activities Program and will be used to fund two separate projects focusing on space medicine.

Pharmacy Students Selected for National Leaders Program

December 11, 2023

OXFORD, Miss. – Four University of Mississippi School of Pharmacy students have been accepted into the ACT Pharmacy Collaborative’s Pharmacy Student Scholar Leaders program.

Students selected were Delancey Anderson, of Yazoo City, Erin Lomenick Pearson, of Potts Camp, Elizabeth Jenkins, of Grenada, and John White, of Puckett.

Only 66 students from across the country were selected to complete the program during the inaugural 2023-2024 academic year.

University of Mississippi School of Pharmacy 2023 Highlights of Achievements, Impact and Community

December 11, 2023

OXFORD, Miss. – University of Mississippi School of Pharmacy 2023 highlights of achievements, impact and community in education, research, practice and service.

Pharmacy Professor Awarded $1.2M NIH Grant

November 1, 2023

OXFORD, Miss. – For the first time, a member of the University of Mississippi School of Pharmacy faculty has received the prestigious National Institutes of Health’s Early Stage Investigator Maximizing Investigators’ Research Award.

Sudeshna Roy, assistant professor of medicinal chemistry and pharmacognosy in the Department of BioMolecular Sciences, is the recipient of the R35 MIRA award. The grant provides a total of $1.2 million over five years for the Roy Laboratory to study fluorinated alkenes and explore the untapped potential of fluorinated alkenes.

UM Pharmacy Researchers Secure STTR Grant

October 31, 2023

OXFORD, Miss. – As part of a Small Business Technology Transfer grant, University of Mississippi School of Pharmacy distinguished professor Michael Repka has received funding to study steroid-eluting dissolvable threads for treatment of rhinitis.

Pharmaceutics Professor Wins Prestigious International Award

October 24, 2023

OXFORD, Miss. – University of Mississippi pharmacy professor Michael Repka has been announced as recipient of the prestigious 2023 Ralph Shangraw Memorial Award.

This recognition by the International Pharmaceutical Excipients Council of the Americas Foundation is an acknowledgement of Repka’s efforts in the field of pharmaceutical excipients, or inactive medicinal ingredients.

School of Pharmacy’s Ashpole Wins Faculty Achievement Award

September 27, 2023

OXFORD, Miss. – The childhood version of Nicole Ashpole would be equally surprised and excited to learn where her professional life would take her. Growing up in rural North Dakota with very few opportunities linking her to the scientific world, she could not have imagined the success she would see in the field.
Read More: School of Pharmacy’s Ashpole Wins Faculty Achievement Award

UM Pharmacy Student Earns National Scholarship

August 31, 2023

OXFORD, Miss. — Cameron Buss, a third-year student in the University of Mississippi School of Pharmacy from Dyersburg, Tenn., has been awarded a Community Pharmacy Scholarship from Pharmacists Mutual.

UM Researchers Conduct First Study to Assess Naloxone Availability In State

August 28, 2023

OXFORD, Miss. – Many Mississippi pharmacies do not have the lifesaving drug naloxone available, according to a recent paper by University of Mississippi researchers.
Naloxone is a medication that can reverse the effects of an opioid overdose by restoring normal breathing and preventing possible fatal consequences.

UM Pharmacy Educator Recognized for Service to AACP, Special Interest Group

July 27, 2023

OXFORD, Miss. — University of Mississippi School of Pharmacy professor Seena Haines has been recognized with the American Association of Colleges of Pharmacy’s Outstanding Contributions to Self-Care and Nonprescription Medicines Award.
Haines was presented with the award at the AACP Annual Meeting in Aurora, Colorado, in July. The award is presented to a member of the group who has demonstrated sustained contribution in service, scholarship and teaching in the area of self-care therapeutics/nonprescription medications.

Pharmacy Faculty Earn School Awards

July 11, 2023

OXFORD, Miss. – The University of Mississippi School of Pharmacy has presented awards to six members of its faculty recognizing excellence in their respective areas.

“This year’s award winners exemplify excellence in research, teaching and service in our school,” said Donna Strum, pharmacy school dean. “I commend them for their impactful contributions and commitment to advancing knowledge, innovating in the classroom and serving others.”

University Awarded New NIDA Contract

June 12, 2023

OXFORD, Miss. – The National Institute on Drug Abuse has awarded the University of Mississippi a new five-year contract and $2 million work order for the cultivation of marijuana and related materials for research.

The five-year contract denotes the university’s eligibility to apply for task orders through NIDA. NIDA crafts task orders to provide materials which meet the expected needs of research investigators.

Four Pharmacy Students Named Taylor Medalists

June 8, 2023

OXFORD, Miss. – Four first-year students in the professional program at the University of Mississippi School of Pharmacy earned Marcus Elvis Taylor Memorial Medals, the university’s highest academic award, this spring.

Fewer than 1% of all Ole Miss students earn the award annually, and honorees must have a 3.9 GPA or higher. This year, some 3.5% of eligible pharmacy students were awarded Taylor Medals.

“Having four Taylor Medals affirms the School of Pharmacy has the best and brightest students, who are academically strong and leaders on campus,” said Donna Sue West Strum, the school’s dean.

Alumnus Tapped as New Cannabis Director

May 23, 2023

OXFORD, Miss. – The University of Mississippi School of Pharmacy has hired Robert Welch, a 2002 alumnus, as director of the school’s National Center for Cannabis Research and Education.

“I am excited about Dr. Welch’s leadership and his passion for the work,” said Donna Strum, dean of the School of Pharmacy. “His experience in both pharmacy and business will help the center develop strategic partnerships to serve the state and advance our initiatives in medical cannabis.”

The NCCRE was founded in 2022 and builds upon the work of the National Center for Natural Products Research and the pharmacy school.

Pharmacy Student Wears Miss Mississippi USA Crown

May 22, 2023

JACKSON, Miss. –Sydney Russell of Collinsville, a School of Pharmacy student on the campus of University of Mississippi Medical Center, is pursuing two dreams – earning a PharmD degree and becoming Miss USA.

“You don’t have to pick just one dream,” Russell said of the challenge of professional rotations, an essential part of a pharmacy education, and preparing for the Miss USA pageant, to be held later this year in Reno, Nevada. “You have to go for your dreams and trust that everything will work out like it’s supposed to.”

BMS Chair Wins SEC Faculty Award

May 18, 2023

OXFORD, Miss. – As the 2023 SEC Faculty Achievement Award winner for the University of Mississippi, Kristie Willett is most excited about what the honor represents.

“Maybe I’m inspiring other women,” said Willett, chair of the university’s Department of BioMolecular Sciences. “In the past, there haven’t been as many female winners from UM, so I hope that other women who see me will be encouraged to apply in the future.

“This year’s list of winners from other SEC institutions is very diverse and inspiring; I’m humbled to be a part of this cohort.”

Dispelling Myths About Natural Remedies

May 11, 2023

OXFORD, Miss. – Dietary supplements come with a disclaimer that they are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent diseases. Still, a University of Mississippi pharmacy expert advises users to know exactly what they can and cannot do.

Hayley Prescott, instructional assistant professor of pharmacy, said that she advocates for being the most informed consumer you can.

“Three key nonprofits – our own National Center for Natural Products Research, the American Botanical Council and the American Herbal Pharmacopeia – work constantly to provide scientific evidence, guidance to industry and education opportunities in this area,” she said.

Pharmacy School Honors Alumni

May 5, 2023

OXFORD, Miss. – The University of Mississippi School of Pharmacy celebrated three of its alumni during the school’s recent Alumni Weekend awards banquet.

Those recognized were Robert Marion and Jimmie Valentine, both receiving the 2023 Distinguished Alumni Award, and Mary-Haston Vest, who received the 2023 Early Career Alumni Award.

Marion earned a bachelor’s degree in pharmacy from Ole Miss in 1976. He credits retired pharmacy professor Marvin Wilson for mentorship and guidance that helped influence the direction of his future career.

School of Pharmacy Names Distinguished Teaching Scholars

April 23, 2023

OXFORD and JACKSON, Miss. – The University of Mississippi School of Pharmacy has named three faculty members as Distinguished Teaching Scholars for a term of three years.

Sally Earl, clinical assistant professor of pharmacy practice; Kayla Stover, professor of pharmacy practice; and Noa Valcarcel, instructional assistant professor of pharmacology, were honored for dedication to teaching and student development.

“It is an honor to be named and recognized as a distinguished teaching scholar within the school,” said Donna Strum, the school’s dean. “The history of those who have been awarded include the top echelon of educators.”

To be considered for a School of Pharmacy Distinguished Teaching Scholar award, an individual must teach for at least five years, demonstrate qualities of a great educator and be publishing research on the scholarship of learning and teaching. Colleagues or supervisors can nominate individuals or self-nominations may be submitted.

Dr. Carter Delivers Hartman Lecture

March 21, 2023

OXFORD, Miss. – Lemrey “Al” Carter, executive director of the National Association of Boards of Pharmacy, will present the 2023 Charles W. Hartman Memorial Lecture on Friday (March 24) at the University of Mississippi.

The AAAS council elects members each year whose “efforts on behalf of the advancement of science, or its applications, are scientifically or socially distinguished.” The 2022 class of fellows, announced today (Jan. 31), includes 505 scientists, engineers and innovators from around the world, spanning 24 scientific disciplines.

Natural Products Center Director Named AAAS, ASP Fellow

January 31, 2023

OXFORD, Miss. – Ikhlas Khan, director of the University of Mississippi‘s National Center for Natural Products Research, has been named a fellow of the American Association for the Advancement of Science.

Center’s Role Critical in Quality and Safety of Supplements, Cosmetics

December 7, 2022

OXFORD, Miss. – In today’s age of online shopping and two-day delivery, consumers have more opportunities than ever to try new health-related products. During COVID-19, for example, many individuals began taking immune-boosting supplements.

Recognizing this trend, the National Center for Natural Products Research at the University of Mississippi School of Pharmacy analyzed a sample of these products. The study produced surprising results.

Pharmacy Students Provide Health Care to Dominican Republic

September 8, 2022

OXFORD, Miss. – Six University of Mississippi pharmacy students spent part of their summer distributing medications and counseling patients in the Dominican Republic during a medical mission trip, and they say the experiences were life-changing and will make them better health care professionals.

Hannah Harvey, of Collins; Michael Kelley, from Booneville; Ann Kate Meagher, of Oxford; Carley Puckett, from Louisville; Anna Miller Rebich, of Brandon; and Madden Stockstill, from Picayune, all fourth-year students in the UM School of Pharmacy, joined a team of health professionals in the cities of Barahona and Bombita between June 10 and 17.

Pharmacy Professor Working to Bring Needed Care to LGBTQ+ Patients

August 11, 2022

JACKSON, Miss. – For many LGBTQ+ patients, finding proper health care can be difficult. A lack of expertise about issues they face, in addition to discrimination, means that many can go without treatment.

At the University of Mississippi Medical Center in Jackson, faculty are working to buck that trend and provide those needed services to patients.

Pharmacology Graduate Student Building a Legacy Through Research

August 1, 2022

OXFORD, Miss. – Cellas Hayes’ journey in science and research began as a college sophomore.

“I was simply searching for an on-campus job and research experience to strengthen my medical school application,” said Hayes, a graduate student at the University of Mississippi.

It was through this job search that he met Nicole Ashpole, associate professor of pharmacology in the School of Pharmacy. Ashpole was looking for someone to help maintain her laboratory, and even though he wasn’t hired to conduct research, Hayes began to pitch in on experiments.

Pharmacy Graduate Programs Aim to Increase Diverse Workforce

July 18, 2022

OXFORD, Miss. – To raise awareness about the field of pharmaceutical sciences and career pathways among potential students across the region, the Office of Research and Graduate Programs at the University of Mississippi School of Pharmacy is investing in increased outreach and recruitment efforts.

The school’s efforts focus on diverse undergraduate student populations throughout the state and beyond.

UM Community Remembers Pharmacy Administration Pioneer Mickey Smith

July 15, 2022

OXFORD, Miss. – Former colleagues, students and friends are mourning former University of Mississippi professor Mickey C. Smith, who died July 5.

To say that Smith was a big deal would be an understatement. He leaves a legacy at the UM School of Pharmacy and the pharmacy world at-large that is unmatched.

“It is not uncommon when meeting alumni for them to ask about him or share a story of how he impacted their life,” said Donna Strum, UM pharmacy dean. “He was an amazing person whose legacy will live on.”

‘Friend of the Student’ Offers a Helping Hand

June 30, 2022

Making the adjustment to college can be tough, especially as a pharmacy student. Between classes, rotations, social life and more, it can be a lot to handle.

Fortunately for students at the University of Mississippi School of Pharmacy, they don’t have to make that adjustment alone. Ashley Crumby, Academic Affairs Coordinator, is here to help students with study skills, time-management and more.

‘Friend of the Student’ Helps Pharmacy Students Gain Valuable Experience

June 22, 2022

For a pharmacy student, the classroom is only part of their education. Getting that real-world experience can make all the difference.

Fortunately for students at the University of Mississippi School of Pharmacy, Robert Metzger is here to help. Metzger works with the Experiential Program, which places pharmacy students in practice settings where they can learn by doing . He also works with the preceptors, making sure they have what they need to support students.

This year, the student body selected Metzger as a recipient of the annual Friend of the Student Award.

Pharmacy Administration Professor Named Distinguished Cotton Lecturer

June 16, 2022

OXFORD, Miss. – Marie Barnard, an associate professor of pharmacy administration with the University of Mississippi School of Pharmacy, has been named as the Distinguished Cotton Lecturer in Pharmacy Administration.

The lectureship is supported by the Winfield and Rachel Cotton Lectureship in Pharmacy Administration Endowment. The appointment is intended to honor and reward a faculty member who has made outstanding contributions to the Department of Pharmacy Administration in research, teaching, service and collegiality. The faculty member is selected by the dean of the School of Pharmacy, with input from the department chair.

Pharmacology Professor Named Triplett-Behrakis Endowed Professor

June 14, 2022

OXFORD, Miss. – Joshua Sharp, an associate professor of pharmacology with the University of Mississippi School of Pharmacy, has been appointed as the Triplett-Behrakis Endowed Professor in the School of Pharmacy.

Supported by the Triplett-Behrakis Endowment Fund, the professorship was created to recognize, retain or recruit outstanding faculty members. The faculty member is selected by the dean of the School of Pharmacy, in consultation with associate deans.

School of Pharmacy Honors Faculty with Teaching, Research Awards

June 9, 2022

OXFORD, Miss. – The University of Mississippi School of Pharmacy recognized four of its faculty members for their excellence in and commitment to teaching, service and research during its annual Faculty and Research Scientist Advancement.

“We have some of the finest faculty and research scientists that go above and beyond to advance the mission of our profession,” said Donna Strum, dean of the School of Pharmacy. “It’s truly a privilege to be able to celebrate the important work they do.”

Professor Retires After 11 Years with School of Pharmacy

May 25, 2022

JACKSON, Miss. – Scott Malinowski has been one of the most beloved members of the University of Mississippi School of Pharmacy faculty. Set to retire after 11 years as a full-time faculty member with the school, and 16 years before that as adjunct faculty, he said that the feeling is mutual.

“Without a doubt, the thing I will miss most are the people,” Malinowski said. “The folks I work with at the School of Pharmacy have welcomed me as family, been there for me in my times of need and helped me grow as a person.”

Lessons Learned Lead to Business Success for Pharmacy Alumna

May 24, 2022

OXFORD, Miss. – University of Mississippi School of Pharmacy alumna Mollie Spencer has been tested a few times in her life.

From taking a personality test to find the best career fit to being challenged as a business owner, Spencer is finding the rewards in hard work, as she was named to the Ole Miss Alumni Association’s inaugural 40 Under 40 class.

Pharmacology Professor Explores Curiosity with NSF Grant

May 20, 2022

OXFORD, Miss. – University of Mississippi faculty member Gregg Roman is exploring the genetic and neural mechanisms responsible for curiosity after securing a grant from the National Science Foundation.

A professor of pharmacology in the School of Pharmacy, Roman serves as principal investigator for a project that uses species of Drosophila, or fruit flies, to study the genes and neurons that drive the exploration of novel stimuli.

Boosting Patients’ Health Literacy Goal of School of Pharmacy Graduate

May 16, 2022

JACKSON, Miss. – The power pharmacists have in helping patients live healthier lives inspires School of Pharmacy senior Amy Ly-Ha to become an ambulatory care pharmacist.

“I wish to bridge gaps created from health disparities, especially for the medically underserved,” she said. “As a daughter of Vietnamese immigrants, I have seen poor health literacy in action. For example, I witnessed older family members struggling to comprehend health information because of limited English skills. Because of this, I can appreciate how patient education from pharmacists can help reduce health disparities.”

Natural Products Center Celebrates 20th Botanicals Forum

May 13, 2022

OXFORD, Miss. – For the first time since 2019, the botanicals industry descended on Oxford this spring for the International Conference on the Science of Botanicals.

The conference, hosted annually by the National Center for Natural Products Research within the University of Mississippi School of Pharmacy, brought together leading industry figures, government officials and academics for a week of discussion and idea sharing of the ancient, yet evolving, study on medicinal plants.

Two HRSA Grants Let Pharmacy Chair Bring Well-being to Forefront

May 10, 2022

OXFORD, Miss. — Seena Haines’ wellness journey has come full circle.

Her own personal struggles as an adolescent with obesity, along with the impact of chronic disease in her family, set her passion toward personal well-being and a calling to help others.

Faculty Feature: Suresh Bandari

May 10, 2022

Suresh Bandari is an accomplished pharmaceutical sciences researcher from Warangal, Telangana, India. Bandari originally joined the University of Mississippi School of Pharmacy’s Department of Pharmaceutics and Drug Delivery in 2017, where he has worked as postdoctoral research associate and research scientist.

This year, Bandari joined the faculty as research assistant professor and hopes to pass on his extensive knowledge and experience to students.

Get to know Bandari in this Q&A.

Kristie Willett Receives University’s Top Research Award

May 6, 2022

OXFORD, Miss. – Sometimes parents are the best role models to follow. Kristie Willett may be an example of that.

Lynn B. Willett, now a retired animal science and toxicology professor from Ohio State University, showed his daughter, Kristie, the world of toxicology from a young age. Kristie attended her first Society of Toxicology, or SOT, meeting in 1978, and her first publication was with him when she was in high school in 1989 on the topic of polychlorinated biphenyls metabolism by rumen microorganisms.

Discovering More in Pharmacy

May 5, 2022

OXFORD, Miss. – Katie Kreusel has discovered there is much more to the pharmacy profession than dispensing medicine.

Originally from Dacula, Georgia, Kreusel’s journey to Oxford started as she was accepted into the Early Entry Program at the University of Mississippi School of Pharmacy. With a seat in the professional program secured, Kreusel used the opportunity to network with the school’s expert faculty and found a research mentor in David Colby, associate professor of medicinal chemistry.

Match Made in Pharmacy

May 3, 2022

OXFORD, Miss. – Nason Wise knew pharmacy was the career for him, as he wanted a profession that fulfilled his interest in medication use and allowed him to help others.

For Shelby Strength Wise, she had worked in a pharmacy since high school and enjoyed the patient interaction it provided.

Attending the University of Mississippi School of Pharmacy was a no-brainer for the pair, but what they didn’t realize is all the matches pharmacy would provide. Now Nason and Shelby are married, graduating with their Doctor of Pharmacy degrees and preparing for their postgraduate residences at Moses Cone Hospital in Greensboro, North Carolina.

Leader in the Lab

April 27, 2022

OXFORD, Miss. – Maali Alshammari knew her time in school wasn’t finished just yet.

Originally from Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, Alshammari received her bachelor’s degree in pharmaceutical sciences from King Saud University. But instead of beginning her career, she sought out new educational challenges.

“I had the option to work as a pharmacist, but I knew that was not the right path for me,” Alshammari said. “Instead, I wanted to continue my education in medicinal chemistry.”

Professor Brings Interprofessional Experience to Students

April 18, 2022

OXFORD, Miss. – Sally Earl’s career has been defined by a willingness to collaborate with those in and out of the pharmacy profession.

As a clinical assistant professor of pharmacy practice at the University of Mississippi School of Pharmacy, Earl’s work extends beyond the classroom. When Earl began her position at the school in 2017, she worked with the Stern Cardiovascular Foundation in Southaven. There she assisted with the appropriate management of medications for cardiovascular diseases with an interdisciplinary team of physicians and nurse practitioners.

Student Pharmacist Awarded Zada M. Cooper Scholarship

April 12, 2022

OXFORD, Miss. – Second-year student pharmacist Leah Franks is having an impact at the School of Pharmacy. She serves as president-elect of Kappa Epsilon, as well as vice president-elect of ASHP-SSHP. She was also selected for Kappa Epsilon’s Zada M. Cooper Scholarship, which goes to student pharmacists who exemplify superior achievement.

Read on to learn more about Leah and her work.

NCNPR Scientist, Pharmacy Student Honored at University’s Celebration of Service Awards

April 11, 2022

OXFORD, Miss. – The University of Mississippi Division of Diversity and Community Engagementwill recognize outstanding accomplishments in community-engaged research, learning, service and scholarship Tuesday (April 12) during its annual Celebration of Service Awards.

The program begins at 2 p.m. in the Johnson Commons Ballroom. Honors to be presented include the Algernon Sydney Sullivan Award, the Excellence in Community Engagement Award and the new Community Engaged Partnership Fund.

Pharmacy Professor Honored with Elsie M. Hood Teaching Award

April 8, 2022

OXFORD, Miss. – With a passion for statistics and commitment to student learning, John Bentley, professor of pharmacy administration at the University of Mississippi, is the winner of the 2022 Elsie M. Hood Outstanding Teacher of the Year Award.

This award recognizes one Ole Miss professor each year who embodies teaching excellence and exceptional student engagement.

UM-Sponsored Bilingual Health Fair Benefits Pontotoc Community

April 7, 2022

OXFORD, Miss. – Pontotoc area residents received cardiovascular and diabetes screenings and other health information Saturday (April 2) as part of a bilingual health fair sponsored by the University of Mississippi and nonprofit health care provider MississippiCare.

UM faculty, staff and students worked with health care and public service providers to meet the health care needs of nearly 100 members of Pontotoc’s underserved community, including many Spanish-speaking households.

Alumna Upholds Family Pharmacy Legacy Through Service

March 31, 2022

OXFORD, Miss. – For Wilma Wilbanks, pharmacy runs in the family. Both her father and grandfather were pharmacists along with other family members. This made any family get-together a pharmacy affair.

“I think back to Thanksgiving and Christmas,” Wilbanks said. “For every part of the family that was there, there was a drug store represented.

Graduate Student Symposium Expands, Features Keynote by Noted Alumnus

March 25, 2022

OXFORD, Miss. – The University of Mississippi‘s Graduate Student Council held its 12th Annual Research and Creative Achievement Symposium, showcasing the research and creative work of students from all disciplines across graduate and professional schools, on March 8.

This year’s event also featured a keynote address by UM alumnus Sly Spencer Lee, a Forbes “30 Under 30” honoree. He shared his story of growing up in Oxford as the child of parents who immigrated from Singapore, and finding success first as a scientist, then as an entrepreneur.

Garrett Gives Back, Scholarship Established in School of Pharmacy

March 24, 2022

OXFORD, Miss. – Gladys Garrett’s gift to the University of Mississippi’s School of Pharmacy will not only change students’ lives but perhaps the future of the health and pharmaceutical industry as graduates enter the field.

Garrett’s gift of $100,000 to the university establishes the Gladys & M. Lynn Garrett Pharmacy Scholarship Endowment, honoring her late husband, a 1949 UM graduate. In appreciation of Garrett’s gift, the pharmacy school will name a conference room in the couple’s honor.

Pharmaceutics Students Excel in Receiving Internships

March 23, 2022

Five students from the Department of Pharmaceutics and Drug Delivery have received internships from leading industry companies and government agencies.

Michael Repka, chair and distinguished professor of the department and director of the Pii Center for Pharmaceutical Technology, praised the students for their efforts in attaining internships and noted this represents a significant increase for the department.

“I have been our department chair for almost 17 years and this last year has shown a four-fold increase in our students receiving internships,” Repka said. “This fact definitely demonstrates the strength of the department and the high quality of our students.”

UM Researchers Working for Safe Drinking Water in Mississippi

March 22, 2022

OXFORD, Miss. – Kristie Willett, BioMolecular Sciences department chair and professor, is part of an interdisciplinary team that is raising awareness of lead in drinking water through outreach, research and education.

This fall, Willett and Stephanie Otts of the National Sea Grant Law Center will teach an honors class about the topic and direct a lead forum in Jackson to help solve the problem.

Faculty Feature: Eman Ashour

March 21, 2022

OXFORD, Miss. – Eman Ashour has a long history with the University of Mississippi School of Pharmacy. She has worked at the school as an associate research & development chemist and received her Ph.D. in pharmaceutical sciences from the university in 2015. Ashour returned in 2017 as a research assistant professor and has made Oxford home.

In January, Ashour was promoted to the position of assistant professor for the Department of Pharmaceutics and Drug Delivery, where she hopes to continue to help pharmacy and graduate students launch their careers.

Pharmacy Administration Faculty Awarded Grant to Study Opioid Tapering

March 17, 2022

OXFORD, Miss. – Faculty members of the University of Mississippi School of Pharmacy’s Department of Pharmacy Administration have received a grantthrough the National Institute on Drug Abuse, a division of the National Institutes of Health.

Titled “Safety and Effectiveness of Opioid Tapering Among Older Adults,” the $432,303 grant will allow researchers to study older adults who are using long-term opioids to manage chronic pain.

UM Pharmacy School Hosts Browse Fair for Future Pharmacists

March 14, 2022

OXFORD, Miss. – The University of Mississippi School of Pharmacy will host pharmacy showcases across the state to educate future pharmacists about the career paths available in the field of pharmacy.

The events are designed as a meet-and-greet with the School of Pharmacy’s new dean Donna Strum, as well as faculty, staff, current students and pharmacy practitioners from different areas of practice.

National Pharmaceutical Council Executive to Give Hartman Lecture

March 8, 2022

OXFORD, Miss. – John M. O’Brien, president and chief executive officer of the National Pharmaceutical Council, will present the annual Charles W. Hartman Memorial Lecture on March 11 at the University of Mississippi.

Hosted by the School of Pharmacy, the lecture will begin at noon CT in the Gertrude C. Ford Center for the Performing Arts. O’Brien’s presentation is titled “Navigating the Health Care Ecosystem to Improve Patient Outcomes.” The event is free and open to the public while also available to watch via Zoom and the pharmacy school’s Facebook page.

dōTERRA, Pharmacy School Sign Five-Year Partnership to Advance Essential Oil Research

March 2, 2022

PLEASANT GROVE, Utah and OXFORD, Miss. – dōTERRA and the University of Mississippi National Center for Natural Products Research, based within the UM School of Pharmacy, have agreed to a five-year research partnership that will focus on establishing quality standards for the essential oil industry.

As part of the partnership, NCNPR will study the chemometrics, pharmacokinetics, pharmacodynamics and metabolomics of essential oils. Officials from both the company and the university anticipate that the research will result in multiple peer-reviewed, published studies that will serve the broader essential oils and scientific communities.

Pharmacy School, Mississippi College Partner on Admissions Pathway

February 25, 2022

OXFORD, Miss. – The University of Mississippi School of Pharmacy and Mississippi College have boosted their commitments to public health with an admissions partnership.

With the preferred admission program, qualified Mississippi College students who express an interest in pharmacy may be admitted to the School of Pharmacy after the first semester of their freshman year. Students must show high achievement in pre-pharmacy coursework and be involved in service activities.

SNPhA Panel Opens Discussion of Diversity in Pharmacy

February 25, 2022

OXFORD, Miss. – The University of Mississippi chapter of the Student National Pharmaceutical Association hosted three UM alumni for its “Practicing as a Diverse Pharmacist” event, kicking off the group’s Spring Speaker Series.

The panel took place February 10 in honor of Black History Month. For SNPhA President Isaiah Brown, a first-year student at the School of Pharmacy, Black History Month is a time to celebrate how far the Black community has advanced, after progressing through different forms and intensities of oppression.

People of the U: Alexcia Carr

February 24, 2022

JACKSON, Miss. – Alexcia Carr got some strong clues growing up that she would go to school to be a pharmacist.

“A lot of people have a ‘person,’ and my grandfather was that person,” said Carr, who will graduate in 2023 with a Pharm.D. from the University of Mississippi School of Pharmacy. “I went with my grandfather to doctor’s visits and gave him his medications,” Carr said.