Issuu

November 2023

UGA SCRIPT | NOVEMBER 2023

Dean Kelly M. Smith Associate Dean, Science Education, Research and Technology Michael Bartlett Assistant Dean, Student Affairs Duc Do Assistant Dean, Experience Programs Lori Duke Assistant Dean, Institutional Effectiveness & Strategic Initiatives, Director of Faculty Affairs Mike Fulford Assistant Dean, Extended Campuses Rusty May Department Head, Pharmaceutical and Biomedical Sciences Yaguang Xi Department Head, Clinical and Administrative Pharmacy Henry N. Young Director, Professional Education Andrew Darley Director, Finance and Administration John Varghese Senior Director, Development Kate O’Reilly Other administrative leaders listed at https://rx.uga.edu/about/administration/ Marketing and Communications Magazine Production Editor Mickey Yongue, Senior Director Design and Production Catherine Lazenby, Digital Media Specialist Story Production Bryan Gomez, Student Research Writer Photos Jason Thrasher Photo CoP Marketing & Communications Staff Find UGA Script online at https://rx.uga.edu/news-events/ publications/. Submit story ideas to Mickey Yongue at mickeyy@uga.edu or 706-542-5303. Submit Alumni Accolades to Kim Hamby at kihamby@uga.edu or 706-542-4536. Change or update mailing address(es) by contacting Mickey Yongue at mickeyy@uga.edu or 706-542-5303. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to: UGA College of Pharmacy, 250 S. Green Street, Athens, Ga. 30606. The UGA College of Pharmacy is committed to creating a dynamic, diverse, and welcoming learning environment for all students, staff, and faculty, and UGA’s Non-Discrimination and Anti-Harassment Policies reflects this philosophy. The College respects all students, staff, and faculty regardless of race, color, sex, pregnancy status, sexual orientation, gender identity, ethnicity or national origin, religion, age, genetic information, disability, or veteran status.

UGA SCRIPT | NOVEMBER 2023

5 14

CONTENTS

06 08 10 12

A Summit in the Fight Against Cancer

Research Retrospect

RX Round-Up

Upcoming Events Tucker Lesperance Epitomizes a Stellar BSPS Student UGA Pharmacy-CVS Health® Externship Program New Timeline Features Historic Milestones of UGA Pharmacy

15 16 17 18

College of Pharmacy Receives 2023 INSIGHT Into Diversity STEM Award From Drug Discovery and Toxicology to Alumni Leadership: Tanzir Mortuza Returns to Serve His Alma Mater Alumna Sets Philanthropy Example for Students, Fellow Graduates Mentor Program Beat Week Chomps the Gators Reflections of Alumni Activities

Alumni Accolades

UGA SCRIPT | NOVEMBER 2023

A LETTER FROM THE DEAN Student Success is Key to College Success Dear Colleagues, Alumni, and Friends: In the last issue of UGA Script, we offered our readers a special Annual Report edition, filled with numbers, statistics, infographics, and analytics - gauges of how we are working collaboratively to achieve positive outcomes. A specific set of five key indicators within the College’s Strategic Plan were spotlighted; these indicators are: Teaching and Learning, Research, Collaboration, People, and Diversity. Reread this issue, titled “Prescriptions for Success’’ for more insight. While the Annual Report issue expanded upon these gauges, this issue explains why we are committed to excellence in all that we do. Simply put, we do it for our students. All 1000+ of them. Students are the heart of our College – and our mission statement explains why: “To transform pharmacy practice, drive scientific discovery, and elevate the health and well-being of Georgians and the global community through innovative, collaborative, and distinctive academic programs, research, and service.” Through our efforts to “transform,” “drive,” and “elevate,” our students flourish in an arena of milestones and achievements so that they can be the best possible pharmacists and pharmaceutical scientists to those whom they will serve. Superior teaching and mentorship from faculty, staff, preceptors, alumni, and others invested in their training assures this happens. This symbiotic relationship allows everyone to prosper. In this issue, you will read brief stories about various achievements, accomplishments, and future strategies of faculty, staff, and alumni who have made the difference in the lives of our students. As an example, you will read about Dr. Eileen Kennedy, who is on the cover of this issue. Her commitment to cancer and Parkinson’s disease is superseded only by her engagement with students in her research portfolio. You’ll also learn about Dr. Tanzir Mortuza, ’18, who is setting an example for students about the value of giving back to the College after you leave. You’ll meet Felton Todd, our new staff member, who is overseeing recruitment efforts and assuring future students enroll in the College. And you’ll engage with Tucker Lesperance, a senior in our 10-year-old Bachelor of Science in Pharmaceutical Sciences program, who exemplifies achievement. Students such as Tucker are why we exist. When students are successful, we are holistically successful. As we approach the end of 2023, we wish you and yours happy holidays…and a future filled with opportunities and success! Happy reading,

Kelly M. Smith, PharmD, FASHP, FCCP, ‘92, ‘93 Dean UGA College of Pharmacy

ON THE COVER Dr. Eileen Kennedy with students Taylor Dill, Tiancheng Chen, Matt Whittaker, and Krista Alexander.

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From left to right: Nicole Lopanik, the summit’s keynote speaker and research program manager of extramural discovery science at the American Cancer Society; Chrystal Paulos, Winship’s director of translational research for cutaneous malignancies; Adam Marcus; Kim Stamper; Richard Stamper; Kelly M. Smith, dean of the UGA College of Pharmacy; Eileen Kennedy; Gregory B. Lesinski, Winship’s associate director for basic research and shared resources. Photo: Justin Evans

A Summit in the Fight Against Cancer Sponsored by a Survivor

By: Charles McNair, freelance writer, UGA Office of Development and Alumni Relations

rom a summit, a person can see a long, long way in all directions. That’s the idea behind the 2023 University of Georgia-Winship Cancer Research Summit, hosted by UGA in Athens this summer. The event brought together top cancer researchers from the UGA Cancer Center and Winship Cancer Institute of Emory University. “The summit highlights the research strengths of two great cancer programs,” said Eileen Kennedy, Georgia Athletic Association Professor of Pharmacy and director of the UGA Cancer Center. “Having a comprehensive view of research at both programs opens new vistas for collaboration in cancer prevention, diagnosis, and treatment.” Kennedy’s fellow at Winship, Adam Marcus, deputy director of Winship Cancer Institute, says the summit brings ideas out of labs and into a shared environment that can spark collaboration in completely new ways. “The spirit of the conference,” Marcus said, “is to put people together in a room who wouldn’t normally have a chance to interact. That drives new ideas and innovation that can someday make cancer a less threatening disease.” At the summit, almost 100 participants—

equally split among UGA and Winship doctoral candidates and post-doctoral researchers— exchanged ideas, heard talks from various cancer investigators, and learned about ongoing work through 40 poster presentations. Keynote speaker Nicole Lopanik, program manager at the American Cancer Society, outlined research funding programs and opportunities for researchers seeking grants. The summit also gathered researchers from far-flung campus research hotspots. For example, the UGA Cancer Center, which is virtual, comprises 16 different departments with 35 separate labs spread all over Athens. By involving researchers from a multitude of fields, the center can progress against cancer on many fronts: pharmacological, biochemical, genetic, and beyond. “With our spatial orientation,” Kennedy said, “face-to-face meetings where people can discuss projects and innovations are really valuable.” To read more about the collaboration, why Richard ’84 and Kim ’89 Stamper funded the summit, and how one CoP pharmacological doctoral candidate, Phillip Dean, engaged with the program, see here. UGA SCRIPT | NOVEMBER 2023

GRANT$

David Crich, DèsSc, Georgia

Research Alliance and David Chu Eminent Scholar in Drug Design in Pharmaceutical and Biomedical Sciences, was awarded a new $2,000,000 R01 grant to research and develop more effective and safer next generation aminoglycoside antibiotics (AGAs). “Permanent hearing loss and balance disruptions are shockingly common side effects of aminoglycoside antibiotics that effect up to 20% of all patients who receive them,” explained Dr. Crich, who was recently named the American Chemical Society’s 2024 James Flack Norris Award Recipient in Physical Organic Chemistry. Current AGAs also can cause kidney damage and are increasingly susceptible to bacterial resistance, limiting their use against complex, virulent pathogens that demonstrate multi-drug resistance. With this new grant, Dr. Crich’s lab will design, synthesize and evaluate two series of next generation AGA derivatives building on previous structure-activity relationships established in his laboratory. Dr. Crich and his team also recently published a paper in the Journal of Medicinal Chemistry reporting on research that resulted in the discovery of a small molecule drug candidate for metastatic non-small-cell lung cancer. The title of the paper is “Discovery of a HydroxylamineBase Brain-Penetrant EGFR Inhibitor for Metastatic NonSmall-Cell Lung Cancer.” Read more here.

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Eileen Kennedy, Ph.D.,

Georgia Athletic Professor of Pharmacy in Pharmaceutical and Biomedical Sciences, was the recent recipient of an 18-month, $400,000 grant from the Michael J. Fox Foundation for her work on constrained peptide therapeutics. Composed of short-chain protein building blocks with engineered “staples’’ and “bridges” that hold their structure in place, constrained peptides are promising targets for drug discovery because of their ability to interface significantly with proteins in the body, such as LRRK2. A complex protein with diverse cell signaling functions, LRRK2 plays a role in normal motor function, and its dysfunction is implicated in Parkinson’s disease. Dr. Kennedy’s newest grant will complement and expand on her previous work synthesizing a constrained peptide with two “staples” capable of permeating cells, targeting LRKK2, and decreasing cell death processes in the brain.

Duo Zhang, Ph.D., Assistant

Professor in Clinical and Administrative Pharmacy at the extended campus in Augusta, has been awarded a one-year NIH R56 Bridge Grant exceeding $500,000 to explore a novel therapy for the treatment of hospital-acquired pneumonia (HAP). Dr. Zhang received support for the grant from co-investigators Drs. Somananth Shenoy and Xiaoyun Wang. Characterized by runaway inflammation that leads to fluid build up in the lungs and poor oxygen exchange, HAP accounts for half of all antibiotics used in the ICU and extends hospital stays by more than a week on average. Preliminary research by Dr. Zhang demonstrated that Clara Cell Protein 16 (CC16), a protein normally secreted by certain lung cells, has protective and significant anti-inflammatory effects. When encapsulated in a special membrane, the protein is stable and can be delivered in therapeutic doses to protect against lung damage, such as that brought about by HAP-causing bacteria. This new grant will allow continued exploration of the mechanism of CC16 and support novel research into whether membrane-enclosed CC16 can be administered via nebulization for the treatment of HAP.

RESEARCH NEWS New research by Dexi Liu, Ph.D., Professor in Pharmaceutical and Biomedical Sciences, published in Scientific Reports, describes the development of a novel COVID-19 vector that is less virulent and easier to work with in research settings. Due to the infectious nature of the true SARS-CoV-2 virus, research involving it requires Biosafety Level 3 (BSL-3) labs, which are highly regulated, expensive, and not available in all institutions—thus posing a barrier to conducting research on the virus. Historically, less restricted BSL-2 labs have been able to conduct COVID-19 research by using models of the virus that have substituted its characteristic spike protein with a harmless fluorescent protein. However, this lack of a critical structural portion of the virus limits the research that can be performed on the disease. Dr. Liu’s novel vector circumvents both of these issues by using a specially designed, self-amplifying sequence of RNA to drive replication of the vector, which allows for the retention of all essential structural components of the SARS-CoV-2 virus. Because the vector lacks the ability to integrate into a host’s genome, its safety profile is enhanced, enabling usage in BSL-2 labs and accelerating COVID-19-related research.

Dr. Chris Bland, the Albert W. Jowdy Professor in Pharmacy Care at the College of

Pharmacy’s extended campus in Savannah, recently provided expert commentary for an article in Scientific American titled, “95 Percent of Penicillin Allergy Diagnosis Are Wrong. A Simple Test Could Help.” Written by Andrew Chapman, freelancer for the popular science publication, the article quoted several academic and health experts from across the country on the subject, including Bland, who had the lead commentary. The article starts, “If you’ve been told your whole life that you have a penicillin allergy, you’d be forgiven for not giving it a second thought. About one in 10 people in the U.S. report having this condition, making it the most common drug allergy in the country—and seemingly ordinary. In reality, 95 percent of those diagnosed with a penicillin allergy aren’t actually allergic. The impact of the sheer number of misdiagnoses is worthy of attention. When treating patients who have an allergy to the antibiotic on their medical record, doctors must turn to other antibiotics that are less effective and more expensive and can lead to serious health complications.” Bland is cited several times throughout the article including the closing sentence. “Many people will encounter a bacterial infection in their lives,” says Christopher Bland, a professor in the College of Pharmacy at the University of Georgia. “You’re going to need an antibiotic. It’s very, very likely. And it could be the one that saves your life.” To read the Scientific American article with Bland’s expert commentary, see here. Dr. Bland and Dr. Bruce Jones, adjunct faculty member in Savannah, were published on the same subject in Infectious Diseases Today’s Contagion Live. Read their article here.

 Alumni and friends! The PharmDawg Holiday Catalog, your one-stop shop for all your favorite UGA Pharmacy gear, is back, with items sold by and directly supporting our wonderful student organizations at the College of Pharmacy. Order deadlines are looming - don’t miss your chance to grab some UGA Pharmacy goodies just in time for the holidays! Click here to view the catalog.

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RX ROUNDUP

Beyond Dispensing: 21st Annual Pharmtoberfest Highlights Pharmacy Services

ver 2,000 educational interactions, 400+ attendees, 264 completed punch cards, 175 chicken sandwiches, 88 flu shots, 51 health screenings, 35 organizations, 25 new bone marrow donor registrants, four pumpkins, two proclamations, and one mayoral visit later, APhA-ASP’s 21st annual Pharmtoberfest was an overwhelming success! Sponsored by Kroger Health and supported by the College of Pharmacy, Pharmtoberfest, held October 19th, celebrated American Pharmacists Month by showcasing the wide skillset and knowledgebase of pharmacists and student pharmacists, who actively immunize patients and perform blood pressure and blood sugar screenings during the Dee Dee McEwen, Kroger Pharmacy Practice Coordinator; Russell Segraves, event. Kroger District Manager; Dean Kelly Smith; Chuck Page, Kroger Health and Wellness Leader; Gordon Thomas, Major Gifts Officer. Remarked Chuck Page, BSPH ‘86, Kroger Health & Wellness Leader, Atlanta Division, “It’s an honor to be associated with such a wonderful event as Pharmtoberfest. The students involved certainly have a passion for patient care and it’s great to see them share their knowledge and skill set with the community. This event fits perfectly with Kroger’s theme of “Helping Patients Live Healthier Lives.” This year, Pharmtoberfest was kicked off by a visit from Athens-Clarke County Mayor Kelly Girtz, who issued a proclamation recognizing October 2023 as American Pharmacists Month “...to increase awareness of the importance of pharmacists to healthcare in our community and to urge all citizens to acknowledge the valuable services of pharmacists.” Girtz’s proclamation Mayor Kellly Girtz alongside Hairy Dawg, and the Pharmtoberfest Committee. complemented the proclamation issued by Georgia Governor Brian Kemp to the College earlier in October. During the event, attendees were encouraged to visit interactive booths hosted by the College’s numerous student organizations and community partners—such as the Georgia Department of Public Health, who provided free HIV screenings, and Cancer Pathways—to learn more about everything from newly FDAapproved over-the-counter birth control and naloxone to kidney health and healthy nutrition habits. With Kroger’s support, the event continues to grow annually, and for P3 and current APhA-ASP President Edith Gonzalez, the growth is a promising sign of the student desire to “...serve and educate the greater UGA and Athens community,” while also “...celebrating our profession.”

Dr. Caballero and Colleagues Demystify the Pharmacy Residency Process with His Newest Book

he lead editor on the American Society of Health-System Pharmacists’ newest edition of Get the Residency: A Modern Guide to a Successful Match, Dr. Joshua Caballero, Associate Professor in Clinical and Administrative Pharmacy, is dedicated to helping finalyear pharmacy students at UGA and beyond navigate and master the residency search and match process. The new publication, which has served as a leading authority on pharmacy residencies for more than 10 years, features revised chapters authored by UGA’s Drs. Blake Johnson and Devin Lavender, Clinical Assistant Professors, alongside new content on diversity, interview questions, and other new preparation resources for virtual and on-site interview formats. Built on first-hand advice, cautionary tales, and personal techniques, the text answers the sorts of questions—such as what should be in a competitive applicant’s portfolio and what happens if you don’t make a match—that Dr. Caballero most frequently hears from his students. “It’s truly the most comprehensive residency prep book out there.” said Dr. Caballero. He encourages residency-interested students to attend the upcoming ASHP Mid-Year Meeting, where authors will discuss his book in more detail at a special display table.

UGA SCRIPT | NOVEMBER 2023

Dr. Jordan Khail Provides Naloxone Certification Across the State

his fall, Dr. Jordan Khail, Clinical Instructor, marked the completion of a yearlong project to provide naloxone administration certification to future pharmacists in Georgia. Beginning with the UGA College of Pharmacy’s own second-year students this past spring and continuing this fall with visits to the programs at P-COM School of Pharmacy in Suwanee, Mercer University College of Pharmacy in Atlanta, and South University in Savannah, Dr. Khail successfully trained all 2025 PharmD candidates graduating from Georgia’s four colleges of pharmacy. To date, this effort has produced more than 650 practitioners-intraining who are capable of administering naloxone to reverse opioid overdoses and save lives. The program’s early success has already established it as an annual event within all four curriculums. Dr. Khail hopes to expand the program GHRC’s Tewana Marshall and Dr. Khail posing further, including practicing pharmacists and other healthcare practitioners in with the 300 dose-kits of donated Narcan the state, while also capturing the impact of these efforts. During the process of the program, Georgia Harm Reduction Coalition (GHRC) donated more than $13,000 worth of Narcan doses, which were provided to trainees of Dr. Khail’s certification program. Dr. Khail said, “I am very grateful to GHRC for their donation, and I am looking forward to many more future collaborations.”

Felton Todd Provides Recruitment Oversight for College

r. Felton Todd has joined the College of Pharmacy as the Student Outreach and Engagement Coordinator. In his new role, Todd will be responsible for facilitating comprehensive student recruitment and outreach efforts for internal and external constituencies as well as feeder institutions to strengthen the College’s PharmD, graduate, and undergraduate applicant pools. Todd earned a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice and a master’s degree in public administration from Georgia College and State University, and a master’s degree in business administration from Kennesaw State University. He possesses more than 15 years of experience in full-cycle student recruitment, enrollment management, and student services. Todd has worked for Clayton State University, Fort Valley State University, Georgia College and State University, and Georgia State University. Most recently, Todd served as Admissions Counselor at the University of Mississippi. A more in-depth feature on the College’s recruitment efforts is forthcoming in a future edition of UGA Script.

ASHP Foundation Video Features Dean Kelly Smith

ean Kelly Smith, Chair of the Board of Directors of the American Society of Health-System Pharmacists (ASHP) Foundation, recently was featured in a special video for the Foundation’s Pharmacy Cares campaign. Co-sponsored by Fresenius Kabi and the Foundation and in recognition of National Pharmacists Week (October 15-23), the Pharmacy Cares campaign seeks to “Recognize the Countless Ways Pharmacy Cares.” In the video, Dean Smith, who is the Past President of ASHP (2018-2019), along with Scott Meacham, President of Fresenius Kabi USA, and Lindsey Thomas, Senior Vice President of Fresenius Kabi USA and a member of the ASHP Foundation Board of Directors, encouraged viewers to record and submit a story on “...Ways Pharmacy Cares.” To view the video, along with more details about the Pharmacy Cares campaign, see here. Stories submitted by pharmacy professionals will be shared at the upcoming ASHP Midyear Clinical Meeting & Exhibition, scheduled for December 3-7 in Anaheim, California. See conference details here. During the meeting, the College of Pharmacy will co-host a Georgia Reception with the Georgia Society of Health-System Pharmacists on Sunday, December 3rd, from 6-7:30 pm at the Anaheim Marriott. Questions can be directed to Kim Hamby, Director of Alumni Relations. Further information is available here.

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Calendar of Events Sunday, December 3rd Georgia Reception at ASHP Midyear Meeting

6:00-7:30pm | Anaheim Marriott, Anaheim CA RSVP info to follow Contact: Kim Hamby

Friday, December 15th UGA Fall 2023 Undergraduate Commencement 10 am | Stegeman Coliseum

UGA Fall 2023 Graduate Commencement 2 pm | Stegeman Coliseum

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Tucker Lesperance Epitomizes A Stellar BSPS Student

In recognition of the 10-year anniversary of the Bachelor of Science in Pharmaceutical Sciences degree at the UGA College of Pharmacy, we spotlight one of our outstanding students in the program. More details about the BSPS program and the anniversary celebration are forthcoming in a subsequent issue of the UGA Script. Enjoy this story and the enthusiasm of Tucker Lesperance. He will exceed your expectations!

imply put, Tucker Lesperance is the real deal. A senior in the Bachelor of Science in Pharmaceutical Sciences (BSPS) program at the College of Pharmacy, the undergraduate student, who hails from Cumming, Ga., says he came to UGA because his high school teachers were alumni and encouraged him to do so. Perhaps even greater motivators were the Zell Miller state scholarship, financial support from his parents, various part time jobs available at UGA, and cheap rent available in Athens, which allowed his education to be affordable. With all these factors, he will graduate debt free in May 2024. “Graduating debt-

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free was a big goal for me and a major reason I went to UGA,” said Lesperance proudly. He didn’t start out at UGA Pharmacy, however. Originally, Lesperance was a Chemical Engineering major at Georgia, but he didn’t like the engineering curriculum. “The idea of creating new drugs became a fascinating concept to me as it is a way to use chemistry to help people directly.” Lesperance ran into a high school friend, Sarah Gruschow, also a senior, on campus one day, and she told him about her degree program, which was in Pharmaceutical Sciences. Thanks to Sarah’s convincing, Lesperance investigated BSPS, and the rest, as they say, is history. His passion for drug discovery…admiration for mentors…and the bonding of classmates has allowed Lesperance to evolve into a true enthusiast for BSPS – and has led him on a career path to be a physician. In a recent Q&A interview, the affable Lesperance shared his story and why he encourages incoming students with like interests to “...really consider…” the College of Pharmacy’s BSPS degree. Read his story here.

ISO: Experience – CVS Pharm Tech Program Benefits PharmDawg Students CVS Health Externship Program “Future PharmD students in search of a meaningful learning opportunity and valuable experience will benefit from a collaboration between UGA Pharmacy and CVS Health, a subsidiary of CVS Pharmacy,” announced Kelly Smith, Dean of the College of Pharmacy. The graphic below provides the pathway to gaining experience as a pharmacy technician at CVS Health. After 40 hours of experiential training in the Athens area, a UGA pre-pharmacy student can apply for a pharmacy technician position at CVS. The experience will benefit the undergraduate as they apply for pharmacy school. Once the student is accepted into the professional program at UGA’s College of Pharmacy,

they are elevated to an intern. The student can be promoted to a graduate intern and then eventually a pharmacist. Remarked Dean Smith, “This experiential opportunity will allow our PharmD students to accelerate in their field of study. We are grateful to CVS for this novel training program that will benefit our future students and beyond.” The inaugural cohort of externs, to be selected for the upcoming spring semester, will be five-to-10 in number. Training will get underway in mid-January. For information on the CVS Health Externship Program, contact Dr. Duc Do, Assistant Dean for Student Affairs.

Unleashing the Future of Pharmacy UGA Pharmacy – CVS Health ® Externship Program Are you interested in a career in pharmacy? Do you want to obtain direct pharmacy experience to apply to pharmacy school (PharmD Program)?

Complete Pharmacy Technician Externship (Undergrad)

Apply for Pharmacy Technician Position (Undergrad)

Promote to Intern During Professional Years

Promote to Grad Intern at CVS Health

Promote to PHARMACIST at CVS Health

EXTERNSHIP PROGRAM Experience 40 hours of direct pharmacy experience in Spring 2024 at CVS Pharmacy (Athens/surrounding areas) Guided mentorship from practicing CVS pharmacist(s)

Requirements Submit an INTEREST FORM by November 30th; 5-10 students will be selected for the inaugural Spring 2024 cohort. To begin externship, students must complete or provide: Georgia pharmacy technician license, background and drug screens, malpractice/liability insurance, CVS Health onboarding forms, in-person orientation in mid/late-January and LearningHUB training. UGA SCRIPT | NOVEMBER 2023 UGA Pharmacy and CVS Health will work closely with selected students to ensure all requirements are completed.

New Timeline Features Historic Milestones of UGA Pharmacy

he history of the University of Georgia College of Pharmacy is as rich as the education taught within the classrooms of the institution. From its founding in 1903, to leadership appointments, to the growth of degree programs, and research discoveries – the scope of history is worthy of note and recognition. These and other milestones are receiving their due spotlight in a visual timeline which has been erected along one major hallway in the R.C. Wilson Building, just adjacent

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to the Dean’s Office on the first floor. A joint project between the College’s Office of the Dean and Office of Marketing & Communications, the timeline spans more than 25 feet with 29 factual historic copy points, along with photographs and even displays of molecules discovered by College researchers throughout the years. A picture of the timeline is seen along the bottom edges of these pages of the UGA Script; to learn about the molecules featured, see here.

UGA College of Pharmacy Receives 2023 INSIGHT Into Diversity STEM Award

GA Pharmacy received a 2023 Inspiring Programs in STEM Award from INSIGHT Into Diversity magazine, the largest and oldest diversity and inclusion publication in higher education. The Inspiring Programs in STEM Award honors colleges and universities that encourage and assist students from underrepresented groups to enter the fields of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM). UGA Pharmacy is featured, along with 78 other recipients, on page 74 of the issue of INSIGHT Into Diversity.

Inspiring Programs in STEM Award winners were selected by INSIGHT Into Diversity based on efforts to inspire and encourage a new generation of young people to consider careers in STEM through mentoring, teaching, research, and successful programs and initiatives. UGA’s College of Pharmacy was cited for articulation agreements signed with seven other University System of Georgia colleges and universities to provide underserved student populations with a guided pathway into UGA’s four-year pharmacy curriculum. The agreement will allow participants an earlier start to a career in this critical healthcare field. Remarked College of Pharmacy Dean Kelly Smith, “We are diligent in our efforts to create an environment of inclusivity and acceptance. Receiving this recognition affirms that we are meeting a critical objective in

our strategic plan. I commend members of our College faculty and staff, along with UGA’s Office of Undergraduate Admissions, Office of Curriculum Systems, Office of the Vice President for Instruction, and the participating USG institutions for having the vision to support and participate in this important endeavor.” Added Lenore Pearlstein, owner and publisher of INSIGHT Into Diversity magazine. “We know that many STEM programs are not always recognized for their success, dedication, and mentorship for underrepresented students. We honor the schools and organizations that have created programs that inspire and encourage young people who may currently be in or are interested in a future career in STEM. We are proud to recognize these programs as role models for other institutions of higher education and beyond.” This CoP Award preceded a UGA recognition by the same publication. This fall, UGA earned national recognition for its commitment to diversity and inclusive excellence for the 10th consecutive year by INSIGHT Into Diversity. Their Higher Education Excellence in Diversity Award is the only national recognition honoring colleges and universities that demonstrate outstanding efforts and success in promoting diversity and inclusion. UGA is one of 109 institutions nationwide to receive a 2023 HEED Award. The HEED Award process consists of a rigorous review of universities’ recruitment and retention of students and employees, leadership support for diversity, and campus culture and climate, among other criteria. In the past year, UGA has launched several new initiatives designed to enhance its efforts in inclusive excellence. Access INSIGHT Into Diversity magazine for more information about the 2023 Inspiring Programs in STEM Awards and UGA’s HEED Award.

UGA SCRIPT | NOVEMBER 2023

From Drug Discovery and Toxicology to Alumni Leadership: Tanzir Mortuza Returns to Serve His Alma Mater

n the dynamic world of pharmaceutical sciences and the ever-changing global regulatory space, professional journeys often are as winding as the landscape in which they’re situated. For Tanzir Mortuza, PhD (Pharmaceutical Sciences) ’18, who has worked at Merck, Takeda, and most recently Gilead Sciences, his journey has led him back home to the University of Georgia’s College of Pharmacy, where he now serves as the newest member of the College’s Alumni Board. “After I graduated, I knew I eventually wanted to be involved in the College’s Development and Alumni Relations activities, because I only have good stories to share. From the mentors I met here… to the national and international opportunities that were provided to me when I was a student, I’ve always felt supported and rewarded by the College,” said Dr. Mortuza. “I am eager now to give back and help current students any way I can.” As a member of the Alumni Board, Dr. Mortuza will support the group in their efforts to provide counsel, reach out to fellow alumni to encourage their participation, and support the College’s various initiatives, including fundraising. Originally drawn to the College because of his interest in drug discovery, Dr. Mortuza sees industry as a promising career pathway for new pharmacy students. “Medications are a huge pillar in the healthcare system. You can have the best doctors and pharmacists in the world, but if you are trying to treat a disease that doesn’t have any medications for it, that expertise doesn’t go very far.” Indeed, in his current role with Gilead as Senior Manager of Regulatory Affairs, Dr. Mortuza has seen firsthand the profound promise and reward in contributing to breakthrough medication development through a regulatory lens. “We’re responsible for an oncology product targeting triple-negative breast cancer. Just approved in 2020, TRODELVY is brand new, but already I’ve seen how appreciative patients are of the medication and of the work we do—it actually changes a lot of people’s lives for the better, and I feel blessed to be in a role where I get to serve humanity.” In his daily work, Dr. Mortuza focuses specifically on the chemistry, manufacturing, and control regulations behind products such as TRODELVY, assuring that patients receive medications that are consistently safe and high quality. Fast-paced and high-impact, it’s a job that Dr. Mortuza says he wouldn’t have discovered if it weren’t for the mentorship he received at the College as a student. “I was looking at different career options during my second or third year of my PhD,” Dr. Mortuza explained. “I saw job listings in regulatory affairs, and I started browsing the College’s related departmental website for International and Biomedical Regulatory Sciences. It was Dr. Michael Bartlett, Associate Dean

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for Science Education, Research, and Technology, who encouraged me to take relevant classes, leading to certificates that paved my path into regulatory affairs.” Dr. Bartlett, who says he’s “...not surprised that a former student as passionate and involved as Dr. Mortuza is now helping accelerate the College’s mission and evolving as a leader as a member of the Alumni Board…” was just one of many faculty members who shaped Dr. Mortuza’s journey. As a lead teaching assistant for Dr. Deborah Elder, Interim Assistant Department Head, Undergraduate and Professional Education, Dr. Mortuza received mentorship on teaching and the value of service. He would later embrace this skill set as a volunteer instructor for the College’s Dean Stuart Feldman Summer Science Institute alongside Drs. Elder and Vivia Hill-Scott, Director, Diversity Programs and Academic Support. “And, it was only with the support and open-door policies of professors, such as Dr. James V. Bruckner, Professor Emeritus, Dr. Cathy White, Associate Professor, and Dr. Phillip Greenspan, Associate Professor, that I was able to so readily get support throughout my PhD program,” he added.

Dr. Mortuza (far left) and his family

As Dr. Mortuza reflects on what he hopes to bring to the College in his new role on the Alumni Board, he offers current students some advice: “It’s never too early to start networking! Your professional journey will be shaped by the relationships you build over multiple years, so it’s important to start building connections now. Don’t get lost in the ‘how’ of it all. You can just grab coffee with somebody at a conference or engage in small talk with a professor you think would be a good mentor.” For Mortuza, it’s those small interactions compounded over multiple years and multiple interactions that made all the difference—and it’s those small interactions that he now looks forward to fostering among current students and colleagues alike.

Alumna Sets Philanthropy Example for Students, Fellow Graduates “Donations by fellow alumni impact students in so many ways. Along with benefitting from the financial gifts that contribute towards their education, students witness alumni supporting the College of Pharmacy. This offers an invaluable life lesson on the importance of giving back – a lesson that can last a lifetime.” - Martha Cato, PharmD ‘70

artha Cato epitomizes the spirit of philanthropy. Raised in Louisville, Ga. and a current long-time resident of Athens, Ga., Martha Cato is committed to supporting her beloved alma mater, because of the 40+ year career she enjoyed as a result of her education. She consistently donates to the College of Pharmacy’s various programs and scholarships “...so that current students can have access to funds to ease financial burdens,” she said in a recent interview. “I also give in appreciation of the work of faculty who provided me with superior training that allowed me to enjoy financial security.” She added, “My education in pharmacy provided me with a satisfying career, the ability to be financially secure, and enjoy a comfortable lifestyle,” she added. “I genuinely want that for others. My hope is that through philanthropic endeavors, students will be adequately prepared not just for a job, but a career in a field for which they are passionate. I encourage my fellow alumni to follow suit to honor our College and set an example to students on the importance of support for the sake of others.”

model of how a female could achieve success in the field of science. I realized that pharmacy provided women opportunities for advancement without major prejudices typical of many male dominated fields. The number of women in pharmacy today is proof of these opportunities.” Cato never considered any other pharmacy school, and she arrived at UGA to earn her BSPH in 1966. While at the College of Pharmacy, Cato was a member of Lambda Kappa Sigma sorority, serving as recording secretary. She was a clerk during season breaks and summers at Eckerd’s Drug store and Horton’s Drug Store in Athens. She also worked at the college in a secretarial role. While in school, she received a Health Care Profession scholarship and two Georgia Pharmacy Association scholarships, allowing Cato to graduate without financial debt.

Charles and Faye Cato, Beverley Millians, Martha Cato

A desire to pursue a pharmacy education surfaced when Cato was young – and came about as the result of an older sibling and a famed female scientist. She explained, “My brother is 10 years older than me, and he pursued pharmacy as a career. He was my mentor; he brought home booklets regarding the field. The study of the human body and treating illnesses with pharmaceuticals was a learning experience that appealed to me. In addition, a book on the life of Madame Curie intrigued me as a child. She was a role

Cato was fortunate to have inspiring mentors who were uplifting in her pursuit of education – Professor Ford C. Millikan, who taught her how to manage employees; Dean Howard Ansel, who encouraged her to take a graduate level class on hospital pharmacy; and Dr. James Cooper, who worked at Athens General Hospital, now Piedmont Athens Regional as a pharmacist when she was an intern. “His knowledge and inquisitive mind provided me with an example on how to approach my career,” she said. Read more.

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Mentor Program

evin Hatcher, PharmD ‘11, is a Market Health & Wellness Director for Walmart, based in East Tennessee. As a current mentor for the UGA Mentor Program, Hatcher shared his experience and advice for students and mentors alike. Hatcher said that originally he was inspired to become a UGA Mentor because critical mentorship is a part of the culture at Walmart. From pharmacy interns to managers as mentees, he learned to guide young adults, and then utilized the UGA Mentorship Program to “...broaden that outreach to include undergraduate students who have much more open career paths.” During his connections, Hatcher said that his most significant takeaway from being a mentor was how talent identification can occur even in a mentee’s freshman year. “My mentee is punctual, communicative, appreciative, and incredibly bright, and it gives me great pride to see such amazing people graduating from UGA and excelling.” Through their mentorship, Hatcher’s mentee has explored career options and prepared for job interviews while building a personal, professional relationship. Hatcher encourages both mentors and mentees to join the program, as he believes there are impactful benefits on both sides. “No one got where they are without mentorship,” he added. “We have to take every opportunity to give back and guide others. Mentorship costs nothing and is an incredible way to support our future alumni.” You can become a mentor and make an impact on the success of students at the University of Georgia College of Pharmacy. The College is collaborating with the UGA Mentor Program to form connections between alumni and students in a 16-week program. Throughout this time, you meet with your mentee for one-to-two hours per month, either online or in-person. By guiding and inspiring the academic and professional goals of current students, you can give back to the PharmDawg community. Click here to sign up. Connect with a PharmDawg today!

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Beat Week Chomps the Gators!

n October, the Dawgs took a BITE out of the Florida Gators both on and off the field. UGA and UF went head-to-head during Beat Week, a one-week giving challenge to see which university could raise the most gifts leading up to the big game, played in Jacksonville on October 28th. Thousands of Bulldogs rallied together to stomp the Gators in a whole new way, and when the dust settled, the final score of gifts stood:

UGA: 4,156 UF: 3,339

PharmDawgs—alumni, students, parents, faculty, staff and friends—showed up to the World’s Largest

Fundraising Party in full-force, raising nearly $5,000 to support scholarships, research, academic programming and more at the College. We all knew the orange-and-blue didn’t stand a chance against the red-and-black, and your generosity proved just that! If you missed Beat Week, it’s not too late to make your annual gift to the College of Pharmacy. Annual gifts are critical to the College of Pharmacy’s success and sustainability and help assure we have the resources to meet timely and relevant priorities of the College. Please visit here to make your annual gift. And the score on the field? Georgia 43, Florida 20. GO DAWGS!

We Appreciate Our Donors! Thank you to the following donors who recently contributed to the University of Georgia Presidents Club with a gift of more than $1,500* to the College of Pharmacy: Mr. and Mrs. James P. Andrews Mr. Hugh M. Chancy and Mrs. Tina Whitaker Chancy Georgia Pharmacy Foundation, Inc. Mr. Joseph E. Holt and Mrs. Erin S. Holt Dr. William T. Huang and Mr. Carlton Bain National Christian Foundation Publix Super Markets Charities, Inc. Dr. Yeshwant D. Sanzgiri and Dr. Uma Y. Sanzgiri Mr. Robert J. Sikes and Mrs. Jennifer F. Sikes Mr. Flynn W. Warren, Jr. and Dr. Monica M. Warren

 Established in 1973, the

Presidents Club is composed of alumni and friends whose annual support makes an immediate impact at UGA. The Presidents Club recognizes donors who give $1,500 or more each fiscal year. Their collective generosity serves as an endorsement of UGA and a commitment to inspire future leaders, advance global research, and improve lives everywhere.

PharmDawg Nation and friends! Please consider joining the President’s club by making a gift of $1,500 or more to the College of Pharmacy Enhancement Fund before the end of the year. This flexible fund provides resources to address current, high-priority initiatives that touch students’ lives and is the most versatile resource available to the College of Pharmacy. Give today! *This list of donors contains names of individuals whose gifts to the College of Pharmacy were processed through the Office of Development between July 1, 2023 and September 30, 2023. Contact Kate O’Reilly, Senior Director of Development, at (706) 380-8930 or via email if you have questions or concerns.

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REFLECTIONS OF ALUMNI ACTIVITIES The following highlights alumni-related activities of the College of Pharmacy since September. Alumni Gather for D.C. Networking The Nation’s Capitol was the site of a recent gathering of PharmDawgs. Dean Kelly Smith ’92, ’93 hosted the event for several alumni. Those in attendance included Nav Singh, BSPS ’20; Marissa Furman Ross, PharmD ’08; Eric Bryant, BSPS ’20, MS ‘25; Sam Bignault, BSA ’19; and Sarah Adam Bignault, PharmD ‘23.

UGA a Highlight at NCPA Conference 1st Runner-Up in Business Plan, 2nd Runner-Up in Student Chapter, Chancy as President The College of Pharmacy soared at the recent National Community Pharmacy Association’s annual meeting held in Orlando, Florida. Highlights included: • •

• • •

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Hugh Chancy, BSPH ’88, completed his term as president 2023 Good Neighbor Pharmacy NCPA PruittSchutte Student Business Plan Competition – 1st Runner Up 2023 NCPA Student Chapter of the Year – 2nd Runner Up Student Chapter also had the largest percentage of increase in membership Student Poster Presentation: Exploring Georgia’s Pharmacy Deserts: An Analysis of Georgia Counties Lacking a Community Pharmacy – Rachel Lovvorn (P-4), Maggie Testerman (P-4), Carley Yawn (P-4), Blake Johnson, Ashley Hannings ‘11 (first three are student authors)

Homecoming Tailgate a PharmDawg Win UGA’s College of Pharmacy hosted PharmDawg enthusiasts on November 4th for a winner of a Homecoming tailgate in the College’s Rite Aid Courtyard. More than 250 faculty, staff, students, alumni, and friends came together to celebrate the occasion. Amidst the lively atmosphere, Georgia’s beloved mascot, Uga XI, affectionately known as Boom, made a special appearance, spreading cheer among PharmDawg fans. Throughout the tailgate, various student organizations showcased fundraising merchandise, allowing attendees to indulge in their love for UGA Pharmacy with various gear and apparel, while supporting worthy causes. Similar merchandise is available for purchase in the PharmDawg Holiday Catalog, which can be viewed here. The day’s excitement continued as the UGA Bulldogs took on Missouri in a thrilling game. The Dawgs emerged victorious, defeating Missouri with a final score of 30-21. The resounding cheers from the tailgate attendees echoed the triumph on the field, making the Homecoming experience unforgettable for everyone. The success of the Pharmacy tailgate and the thrilling game against Missouri added to the university community’s pride, marking the 2023 Homecoming as a memorable celebration of school spirit and camaraderie. To view photos from the event, see here.

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ALUMNI ACCOLADES

Submit a Class Note

To share your personal (new baby, engagement, marriage, etc.) or professional (awards, elected position, grants, publication, presentation, etc.) news or that of a fellow alumnus in UGA Script, please complete this form. For questions or concerns, contact Alumni Director Kim Hamby.

Marie Chisholm-Burns, PharmD ‘93, MPH, MBA, BSPH ’92, FCCP, FASHP, FAST, FACHE, the Executive Vice President and Provost of Oregon Health &

 Marie Chisholm-Burns (left) and

Susan E. Smith. (Courtesy) (Source: OHSU Communications)

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Science University, was one of only eight professors in the United States to receive the prestigious Elizabeth Hurlock Beckman award this year. The award is given annually to educators who have inspired their former students to “...create an organization which has demonstrably conferred a benefit on the community at large….” and “...establish on a lasting basis a concept, procedure, or movement of comparable benefit to the community at large.” She was nominated by one of her former students, Susan E. Smith, PharmD, BCPS, BCCCP, Clinical Associate Professor at UGA Pharmacy, who wrote, “Marie’s mentorship inspired me to start the UGA Critical Care Collaborative (UGAC3), which, in turn, has benefited students in countless ways. In addition, she inspired me to start the personal finance elective course that I teach.” Along with her education at CoP, Dr. Chisholm-Burns was a professor at the College from 1994-2007. Read the full announcement here.

Hugh Chancy, RPh, ‘88 testified before the House Committee on Oversight and Accountability in Washington, D.C. this September. Chancy’s role as the president of the National Community Pharmacists Association has led to legislative engagement for pharmacists and patients across the United States. He is serving as co-owner of Chancy Drugs, which is celebrating more than 50 years of service.

Chris McCurdy, PhD ’98, the Frank A. Duckworth Eminent Scholar Chair, Associate Dean for Faculty Development, and Professor of Medicinal Chemistry at the University of Florida College of Pharmacy, is back in the academic spotlight. He and a team of University of Florida Health researchers have secured a five-year, $19 million grant from the National Institutes of Health and the National Institute on Drug Abuse to develop a novel treatment for stimulant use disorder. The oral therapy drug could become the first medication available to treat stimulant use disorders that include cocaine, methamphetamine, and prescription stimulants. The 2022 Distinguished Alumni Award recipient at UGA Pharmacy, McCurdy, who received his doctorate from the Pharmaceutical and Biomedical Science Department and was mentored by Dr. Warren Beach, carried the gonfalon in this year’s Commencement Ceremony. Ping Wang, PhD ‘98, Scientific Director for Johnson & Johnson in Malvern,

Pennsylvania, is a 2023 recipient of the UGA Alumni of Distinction Award. The award recognizes graduates who have achieved meritorious success in their professions, distinguished themselves as mentors and role models in their fields, and made substantive impact at the regional, national, and international levels. Presented by the UGA Graduate School, the award spotlights individuals who follow the UGA motto, “...to teach, to serve, and to inquire into the nature of things.” Dr. Wang graduated from the Pharmaceutical and Biomedical Sciences Department and was mentored by Dr. Michael Bartlett. In his current position, he oversees biologics development, biomanufacturing, tech transfer, CMC strategies, single use/disposable systems assessment/ implementation, dual source assessment strategies, and more.

Dr. Bryan White, PharmD ‘12 was elected a fellow of the Infectious Disease Society of America this fall. An Infectious Diseases Clinical Pharmacist at the University of Oklahoma Medical Center, Dr. White was one of 219 individuals chosen for this designation; only 12 were pharmacists. Fellowship in IDSA is one of the highest honors in the field of infectious diseases. It is given to those who have achieved professional excellence and provided significant service to the profession.

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https://rx.uga.edu

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