SOP NEWSLETTER SPRING 2025
THE W HITE COAT CEREMONY
Members of the first-year class received their White Coats during a ceremony that marks the start of the pharmacy school journey, symbolizing their commitment to the pharmacy profession This special event includes taking an oath to maintain ethical standards, prioritize patient care, respect all individuals, and engage in lifelong learning It highlights the significance of professionalism, empathy, and ethical conduct in pharmacy practice. Receiving their white coats, students pledge to uphold the profession's ethical and professional standards, signifying the ceremony's importance as a milestone in their professional development and the start of their path as future pharmacists
MESSAGE FROM THE DEAN
Dear students, alumni, friends and colleagues,
Spring is always a special time at the School as we come together to celebrate academic excellence, professional milestones, and the vibrant spirit of our community. In this issue, we highlight some of the moments that make this time so meaningful ? from the White Coat Ceremony to student inductions into honor societies, the annual awards celebrations, some joyful student-led events and the recognition of our Teacher of the Year recipients These stories are a reminder of the passion, dedication, and camaraderie that define our School.
Enrollment is stabilizing and we now have six completed articulation agreements with Colleges and Universities including Colorado Mountain College, Community College of Aurora, CSU Pueblo, Front Range, MSU Denver and University of Denver These agreements create clear, accessible pathways for students applying to our PharmD program
The new Masters in Drug Development (MSDD) program will launch in Fall 2025 and will provide a great opportunity for our PharmD students interested in getting exposure to, or preparing for, careers in the biopharmaceutical industry
Our School outcomes continue to be outstanding Congratulations to our students and faculty! Our most recent NAPLEX pass rate is 80%, with a 3-year average also at 80%, both above the national average Similarly, our most recent residency match rate is 88%, with a 3-year average of 87%? again, well above the national average
Together, these moments and milestones reflect the strength and dedication of our students, staff and faculty, and the shared commitment that continue to shape the bright future of our School Wishing everyone a happy summer!
Samit Shah, PhD, MBA, RPh Dean, Regis University School of Pharmacy
AWARDS AND SCHOLARSHIP CEREMONY
Regis University School of Pharmacy celebrated students who demonstrated excellence in academia, leadership, clinical practice, service, and/or research
Dean Shah kicked off the ceremony congratulating the students who receive awards, scholarships and recognitions, and all of our extraordinary students and nominees Dean Shah also thanked scholarship sponsors: Dr. Melissa Rodgers from Albertsons Companies, Dr. Kim Ward, Dr. Anthony Lipparelli, and Dr. Jason Perry from Kings Sooper and City Market, Dr Kristi Mihok from Walgreens, Kaiser Permanente for the Kent Nelson scholarship, CVS pharmacy for the Spanish Pharmacy Scholarship, and Tolmar, Inc for the Industry Pharmacy Scholarship for their continued support of our program and extraordinary scholarships
SOP Ambassadors
Members of the school of pharmacy served as ambassadors to represent the school at events and included Abdoul Madjid Abdoulmoumine, Grecia Anaya, Carla Anders, Denise Avila, Mercedees Benavidez, Stephanie Calliste, Ross Colburn, Jana Compesi, Wesley Elford, Alyssa Herrod, Juliet Milione, Emily Nelson, Miranda Olivares, Tariq Pulskamp, Kaz Stone-Myers, Vincent Tavalez, Kenny Tran, and Justin Yi.
OUTSIDE SCHOLARSHIPS AND AWARDS
Daniel's Fund Boundless Opport unit y Scholarship
Congratulations to Justin Yi!
Kappa Psi Pharmaceut ical Fraternit y Sout hwest Province Regent of t he Year
Congratulations, Vincent Tavalez!
NCPA Foundat ion President ial Scholarship
Congratulations to Hailey Murphy!
SCHOLARSHIPS
Albert son's Companies Scholarship
Albertson Companies provide scholarships for students passionate about community pharmacy and serving their patients. The students selected this year provided applications that highlighted demonstrated passion for community pharmacy practice evidenced by their experiences, volunteering, strong work ethic, and impressive extracurricular engagement This year?s awards go to Avenir Gorkovchenko and Fabiha Ikram, pictured with Dr. Melissa Rodgers of Albertson Companies
Justin Yi
Vincent Tavalez
CVS Spanish Scholarship
The CVS Foundation provides a scholarship for dual language Spanish speakers. This scholarship requires that the student speaks Spanish and has evidence of using this bilingual skill to support Spanish-speaking patients in the community setting Congratulations to Madelyn Gloe, shown with Dr Katie Carnett
Kings Sooper and Cit y Market Communit y Pharmacy Advancement Scholarship
The King Soopers City Market Community Pharmacy Advancement Scholarship supports students dedicated to advancing pharmacy practice in Colorado? especially in rural areas Preference is given to current or former pharmacy technicians who plan to practice in a community pharmacy setting in rural Colorado after graduation Congratulations to Carla Anders and Caden Robertson. Shown here with Dr. Kim Ward, Dr Anthony Lipparelli and Dr Jason Perry of Kings Sooper
Walgreens Mult ilingual Scholarship and Walgreens Inclusion Scholarship
The Walgreens multilingual scholarship is awarded to the applicant that provides the strongest evidence of their efforts towards community outreach and their role in serving patients that do not speak English The Walgreens Inclusion Scholarship is presented to the applicant that provides the most evidence in efforts towards community outreach in the field of pharmacy. Award winners Simon Tesfaselassie and Haemin Park with Dr Dori Duncan of Walgreens
The Tolmar Industry Scholarship is provided to a student who shows a strong interest in industry pharmacy, possesses excellent communication skills, and plans to pursue an industry fellowship or related career path. Applicants should also demonstrate involvement in community service and/or professional organizations like Industry Pharmaceutical Organization (IPhO) This year?s scholarship is awarded to Justin Yi, pictured with Dr. Stephanie James
Tolmar Indust ry Scholarship
STUDENT ORGANIZATION AWARDS
American Pharmacist s Associat ion Leadership Award
Winner Daniella Salawu with Dr Behrmann
Indust ry Pharmacy Organizat ion Award
Winner Amelia May with Dr James
Kappa Psi Pharmaceut ical Fraternit y Brot her of t he Year Award
Winner Marc Catbagan with Dr. Malarkey
Phi Delt a Chi Dist inguished Brot her of t he Year
Winner Alyssa Fukunaga with Dr. Clapp.
Phi Lambda Sigma, Excellence in Leadership Award
Winner Stephanie Calliste with Dr Hanna
Phi Delt a Chi Servant Leader Award
Winner Alyssa Herrod with Dr Clapp
Susan M. Paulsen Heart and Soul Award
The nominated student is one who above all other classmates brings out the best in others, demonstrates outstanding leadership, recognizes the good in all situations, practices reflection, balances responsibilities and roles well, is a good listener and above all else, is the heart and soul of the graduating class This year?s Susan M Paulsen Heart and Soul Award goes to Madjid Abdoulmoumine (not pictured)
Viat ris Excellence in Pharmacy Award
Criteria for this award include a current P4 student, in the top 25% of the class, demonstrates high personal motivation with the intent to enter practice upon graduation and possess a unique ability to communicate drug information. The winner receives a personalized lithograph. This year?s award goes to Andrea Robles (not pictured).
Excellence in Clinical Communicat ions
This award is presented to a graduating student in the top 25% of their class who has demonstrates superior verbal and written clinical communication skills This year?s award goes to Lucy Johnson (not pictured)
DEPARTMENTAL AWARDS
Depart ment of Pharmacy Pract ice
This student is in the top 25% of the class, received a 4 0 in all integrated lab courses, and demonstrated enthusiasm for pharmacy practice topics by engaging in class discussions, seeking out additional information, experiences, knowledge), and routinely asking thought-provoking, probing questions in the classroom Congratulations Carla Anders, pictured with Dr Claiborne
S Dean Allison Depart ment of Pharmaceut ical Sciences Award
The nominated student is one who performed the highest of all classmates on quiz and exam questions about the pharmaceutical sciences This year?s award goes to Tariq Pulskamp, pictured with Dr Clapp
FACULTY AND STAFF COLLEAGUE OF THE YEAR
Faculty and staff voted for their colleague of the year Congratulations to Dr Shea (left), and to Mr Denny Boyd (right), both pictured with Dr Carnett
St udent College of Clinical Pharmacy Award
St udent Nat ional Pharmaceut ical Associat ion Award
St udent Societ y of Healt h-System Pharmacy Leadership Award
TEACHER OF THE YEAR AWARDS
Dr Carnett with Ayesha Darnell and Frankie Caballero
Dr Hanna with Sydney Howley and Kenny Tran
Winner Venessa Keo, not pictured
Rho Chi Leadership Award
Winner Stephanie Calliste with Dr Malarkey
Winner Caden Robertson with Dr Hanna
Dr Martell with winner Caden Robertson
P1 Teacher of t he Year
P2 Teacher of t he Year
Dr Sucher with Julisa Mireles-Caraveo and Kaz Stone-Myers.
P3 Teacher of t he Year
Dr Martel with Haemin Park and Justin Yi
AP2 Teacher of t he Year
STUDENT ACTIVITIES
Colorado Pharmacist s Societ y Day at t he Capit al
Students from the Regis University School of Pharmacy recently participated in the 2025 CPS Day at the Capitol, an annual advocacy event hosted by the Colorado Pharmacists Society (CPS) Held at the Colorado State Capitol, this event offered students a valuable opportunity to engage directly with state legislators and advocate for healthcare policies that affect the pharmacy profession Alongside peers from the University of Colorado, our students observed legislative sessions, listened to bills being presented, and participated in discussions about pharmacy- issues. The day also included a guided tour of the Capitol, providing students with a firsthand look at the legislative process and the chance to strengthen their role as future healthcare advocates Regis University faculty and students pictured below left to right, back row: Madi Watts, Vincent Tavalez, Dr Jeff Lalama, Julisa-Mireles Caraveo Front row: Dr Emily Zadvorny (Executive Director, CPS), Dr Dana McDonald, Hailey Murphy, Stephanie Calliste, and Alyssa Herrod
CPS Pint s for Policy
Each spring, the CPS Academy of Student Pharmacists hosts ?Pints for Policy,?an informal yet impactful evening dedicated to legislative advocacy During this event, students have the opportunity to hear directly from Dr Emily Zadvorny, Executive Director of CPS, about current bills and policy proposals that may influence the future of pharmacy practice in Colorado? both positively and negatively Dr Zadvorny emphasizes the importance of pharmacist advocacy and reminds students of the prescriptive authority pharmacists currently hold in Colorado, thanks to CPS's longstanding efforts. This event continues to be a meaningful reminder of our collective responsibility to advance and protect the profession t, it is always important to mention that need to advocate towards our profession and being reminded of the prescriptive authority we do hold in the state of Colorado thanks to the work CPS has done Pictured below back row: Madi Watts, Vincent Tavalez, Dr Jeff Lalama, Julisa-Mireles Caraveo; front row: Dr Emily Zadvorny, Dr Dana McDonald, Hailey Murphy, Stephanie Calliste, and Alyssa Herrod.
STUDENT ACTIVITIES
Phi Lam bda Sigm a Represent s at Capit ol Research Show case
Phi Lambda Sigma (PLS) had the unique opportunity to host a sponsored luncheon at the Colorado State Capitol, bringing together state senators, university students, and high school students. The event coincided with a research and policy showcase, where students presented their projects and legislative proposals
PLS representatives shared the mission and purpose of the society with attendees, highlighting the organization?s commitment to leadership development within the pharmacy profession The event provided a valuable platform to engage with policymakers and peers, and PLS extends its sincere gratitude to Dr James for facilitating this meaningful experience Pictured are Vincent Tavalez, Kaz Stone-Myers, Stephanie Green and Julisa-Mireles Caraveo.
St udent Leaders Host Pharmacy School Survival Guide for First Year St udent s
Earlier this year, members of Rho Chi and Phi Lambda Sigma collaborated to present a ?Pharmacy School Survival Guide?for first-year pharmacy (P1) students The session offered practical advice and shared experiences to help students succeed in both the classroom and on their Introductory Pharmacy Practice Experiences (IPPEs) Topics included professionalism, study habits, time management, and effective learning tools. The event reflected the organizations? shared commitment to leadership development, academic support, and fostering student success within the school of pharmacy Students from Phi Lambda Sigma pause for a quick selfie after hosting their Pharmacy School Survival Guide event for first-year students: Vincent Tavalez, Karly Sandoval, Leyken Wilson, Abigail Yoo and Jeremiah Cleveland.
Zet a Et a Chapt er Shines at Kappa Psi Spring Assem bly
Members of the Zeta Eta chapter of Kappa Psi at Regis University traveled to Fort Worth, Texas to attend the Spring Assembly hosted by the Zeta Lambda chapter at the University of North Texas Health Science Center Zeta Eta was proudly represented by Regent Vincent Tavalez, who was honored with the prestigious Regent of the Year award, standing out among leaders from nine collegiate chapters across the province
In addition to this recognition, Vincent Tavalez was elected Satrap of the province? the highest leadership position on the provincial executive board? for the upcoming academic year These achievements reflect the strength and dedication of Zeta Eta, which was founded in September 2014. The chapter continues to demonstrate growth, leadership, and resilience within the Kappa Psi community Pictured are in the backrow: Kenny Tran, Vincent Tavalez, Dr Michelle Hackett (Grand-Council Deputy from Denver Grad), Maddie Dankocski (University of New Mexico), Kyle Powell, Justin Yi; front row: Sydney Howley, Britney Vo, Marc Derick Catbagan, and Mitch LeRoy
STUDENT ACTIVITIES
Regis School of Pharmacy Launches on TikTok!
Thanks to the efforts of our Student Affairs Committee, Regis University School of Pharmacy has officially launched its TikTok account! Our debut video features accelerated second-year student Juliet Milione interviewing members of the Admissions Committee about what they look for in prospective students. Pictured here is her interview with Dr. Chris Malarkey With over 1,500 views and counting, the response has been enthusiastic!
Follow us on TikTok @regis sop to catch future content and behind-the-scenes glimpses of life at Regis SOP
Hands-On Learning in t he Sim Lab
Regis University School of Pharmacy students gain valuable clinical experience through immersive simulation lab sessions Working with high-fidelity manikins, students sharpen their communication, teamwork, and clinical decision-making skills in a safe, supportive environment These labs help bridge classroom learning with real-world application? one patient scenario at a time! Pictured from left to right are Lucas Kucera, Michael Onyeali, Aisha Atmar, Sheridan Reed, and Molly Mathewson
St udent s Break Out of t he Classroom in Clinical Escape Room Challenge
Second-year students recently participated in an innovative, multi-disease state escape room designed to reinforce key clinical concepts The challenge incorporated real-world scenarios involving diabetes mellitus, dyslipidemia, hypertension, atrial fibrillation, anticoagulation, and stroke.
Five teams competed to solve complex patient cases and "escape the room" first. Congratulations to Team 3 for finishing first! Pictured from left to right are Join us in celebrating the clinical problem-solving skills of Obinna Iwuji, Melody Rodgers, Madi Reiman, and Alex Billings; not pictured, Cat Colon
STUDENT ACTIVITIES
APhA Annual Gala
The Student Chapter of the American Pharmacists Association (APhA) held their annual Gala fund raiser at the Butterfly Pavilion Funds raised will be invested in patient care projects, support student professional development , and facilitate the creation of innovative programs These initiatives are designed to actively engage our student pharmacists in the broader pharmacy profession, enriching their educational experience and professional growth
Left to right: Carla Anders, Baileigh Baker, Liz Schaner, Marina McDonald, and Noor Abuajineh
Left to right: Mikaela Chandanais, Dr Leah Behrmann, Tina Perez, Vincent Tavalez and Jacob Feldker
Left to right: Cassandra Willis, Molly Mathewson (Keith), Faye Laforteza, and Lucas Kucera
Left to right: Molly Mathewson (Keith) and friends, Elizabeth Le (alumni)
Pink dresses: Dr Leah Behrmann (right) with her daughter; Center, Dr Katie Tuck and daughter
Rho Chi Induct ion
Rho Chi is the academic honor society for pharmacy, recognizing students who have demonstrated exceptional scholastic achievement, intellectual leadership, and a strong commitment to the advancement of pharmaceutical sciences Membership is by invitation and is limited to the top academic performers within pharmacy programs, emphasizing not only academic excellence but also a dedication to service, leadership, and professional development. The 2025 inductees included seven outstanding students whose academic distinction and commitment to the profession earned them this prestigious honor Congratulations to all! Alumni Dr Lance Nelson (see below) delivered the keynote address during the induction dinner and ceremony
Alumni Spot light - Dr. Lance Nelson
A proud 2017 graduate of the Regis University School of Pharmacy, I began my career with a PGY1residency at Memorial Central Hospital in Colorado Springs It was during this residency that I discovered my passion for pediatrics? particularly pediatric oncology
At the time, Children?s Hospital Colorado had no presence in southern Colorado That changed in July 2018, when I was offered a position in the Center for Cancer & Blood Disorders (CCBD) by my pediatric preceptor, Dr David Nash Initially based in the Children?s Specialty Clinic, the CCBD team transitioned to the newly constructed hospital in May 2019. I?ve been honored to serve there ever since.
Today, I remain deeply committed to advancing pediatric care and mentoring the next generation of pharmacists I currently serve as a mentor at Kaiser Permanente, the PGY1 primary preceptor for Oncology, and the PGY1/ PGY2 Pharmacogenomics primary preceptor I?m grateful every day to be working in a field I love, supporting patients and learners alike
Left to right: Faculty advisor, Dr Dan Berlau, Madi Reiman, Catherine Colon, Aisha Atmar, Axel Abundez-Abundez, Sabin Ghimire, Abigail Coufal, and Faculty advisor, Dr Allana Sucher
Dr Lance Nelson, keynote speaker, Rho Chi induction
APPE SPOTLIGHT
Centers
for Disease Cont rol and Prevent ion (CDC) Office of Ant ibiot ic Stewardship
by Daniella Salawu
During a recent clinical rotation at the CDC Office of Antibiotic Stewardship, I had the unique opportunity to contribute to national efforts aimed at improving antibiotic prescribing and combating antimicrobial resistance (AMR). This experience deepened my understanding of antimicrobial stewardship, public health policy, and the integral role pharmacists play in enhancing health outcomes
A major focus of my rotation involved conducting a comprehensive literature review on clinical decision support (CDS) strategies designed to improve antibiotic prescribing in outpatient settings. Leveraging my dual training in pharmacy and health informatics (PharmD/ MSHI), I evaluated a range of CDS tools aimed at curbing antibiotic overuse and promoting evidence-based practices in health technology
In addition, I completed the CDC?s Antibiotic Stewardship Training Course and the Society for Healthcare Epidemiology of America (SHEA) Penicillin Allergy Management Course These programs enhanced my expertise in stewardship principles and informed my understanding of antibiotic allergy assessment and de-labeling strategies for optimizing therapy
A key highlight of the rotation was shadowing CDC and Infectious Diseases Society of America (IDSA) experts during the development of a new clinical pathway I participated in CDC/ IDSA Quality Improvement meetings focused on revising guidance for conditions such as community-acquired pneumonia (CAP) and urinary tract infections (UTIs), gaining insight into the process of creating standardized, evidence-based clinical recommendations
I also contributed to updating the therapeutic agent section of an interactive infographic on adult CAP, a collaborative initiative between the CDC and the American College of Chest Physicians (CHEST) Supported by a grant from the Department of Health and Human Services, this resource aims to provide clinicians with concise, evidence-informed treatment guidance My role involved revising the drug tables using trusted sources such as DailyMed, Lexicomp, PubMed, and the 2019 ATS/ IDSA Guidelines, focusing on refining information related to drug classes, adverse effects, and clinical considerations.
Throughout the rotation, I collaborated with pharmacists across CDC divisions, coordinated informational meetings, and reviewed educational materials, including public-facing infographics on viral infections such as the common cold and acute bronchitis These efforts supported public health messaging aimed at reducing inappropriate antibiotic use
This rotation was an incredibly rewarding experience that strengthened my skills in antimicrobial stewardship, literature evaluation, and medical writing I am grateful for the opportunity to work alongside experts committed to improving public health and look forward to applying these insights in my future practice as a pharmacist and medical writer
Presenting research "Closing Vaccine Gaps: Analysis of Adult Vaccination Rates and Predictors of Poor Uptake" at STEM Poster Day at the Capitol, sponsored by Project Bridge? an initiative originally founded at Johns Hopkins and now active at the University of Colorado Anschutz
Alyssa Herrod and Daniella Salawu at the Capitol
STUDENT SCHOLARSHIP
Pharmacy students Katie Gribble and Tyler Petrini represented Regis University at the 2024 ASHP Midyear Clinical Meeting in New Orleans with their research presentation titled ?Flushing Out the Cause: Anticholinergic Toxicity from Atropine Eye Drugs ? Their work highlighted the often-overlooked risks associated with anticholinergic medications and emphasized the importance of recognizing signs and symptoms of toxicity
The ASHP Midyear Meeting provided a valuable opportunity for students to engage with pharmacy professionals from across the country, gain new insights, and contribute to the ongoing conversation around patient safety and clinical awareness
FACULTY ACTIVITIES
Dr Stephanie James on CNN
In a recent CNN Health segment, Dr Stephanie James, Associate Professor at Regis University, delves into the crucial role mucus plays in our immune system She explains how this often-overlooked substance acts as a frontline defender, trapping pathogens and preventing them from entering our bodies
Dr. Stephanie James Reelected Chair of Immunize Colorado
Congratulations to Dr Stephanie James on her re-election as Chair of Immunize Colorado! Her continued leadership supports statewide efforts to promote vaccine education, equity, and access across all communities
FACULTY PRESENTATIONS
CPS Annual Winter Meeting
Berlau D Thank you and I'm sorry: The twin powers of gratitude and apology Presented at: Colorado Pharmacists Society Meeting; January 26, 2025; Beaver Creek, CO
FACULTY PUBLICATIONS
Avila D^, Stone- Myers K^, Sucher A Doxycycline guidelines for STI postexposure prophylaxis US Pharm 2024;49(10):32-34.
Behrmann L, Jung A, Goldw ire MA Optimizing Sedation and Analgesia in Neurocritical Care US Pharm 2025;50(1):HS8- HS12. https://www.uspharmacist.com/article/optimizing- sedation- and- analgesia- inneurocritical-care
Calliste S^, Herrod A^, Cogan PS, Sucher A. Updated recommendations for pneumococcal vaccination. US Pharm. April 2025;HS1-HS5.
Cogan PS A cautionary tale of paradox and false positives in cannabidiol research Expert Opin Drug Discov. 2025;20(1):5-15. doi:10.1080/ 17460441.2024.2441359
Hanna C, Carnet t K, Goldw ire MA Transition of Care Strategies for Hospitalized Patients with Pain US Pharm. 2025;50(3):HS7- HS12. https://www.uspharmacist.com/article/ transitions- of- care- strategies- forhospitalized-patients-with-pain
Johnson LM^, Pulskamp TG^, Berlau DJ. The latest developments in synthetic approaches to Duchenne muscular dystrophy Expert Rev Neurother Published online February 4, 2025
Pulskamp TG^, Johnson LM^, Berlau DJ. Novel non- opioid analgesics in pain management. Pain Manag. 2024;14(12):641-651
^pharmacy student