University of Kentucky College of Pharmacy Impact Report
2023-24 IMPACT
The College of Pharmacy building at 104 West Chestnut in Louisville, circa 1950
Lee T. Todd, Jr. Building at 789 South Limestone in Lexington, the current home of the UK College of Pharmacy
Dear Friends,
The past few years have been nothing short of transformative for the University of Kentucky College of Pharmacy. With immense pride and deep gratitude, we celebrate the legacies of our retiring faculty—mentors, innovators, and leaders who have left a profound and lasting mark on our College. Their unwavering dedication to their craft and their students has not only advanced the field of pharmacy but also shaped the lives of countless individuals. Their influence is woven into the very fabric of our community and will resonate for generations to come.
As we honor these towering figures, we also stand at the dawn of a new and exciting chapter. Our College is thriving with the energy of an exceptional group of junior faculty who bring bold ideas, fresh perspectives, and a shared commitment to excellence. Their work, spanning areas like neuroimmune pharmacology, infectious diseases, and novel therapeutic development, is already pushing boundaries and setting the stage for groundbreaking discoveries. They are the stewards of our future, and their contributions will define the next era of our College’s impact.
This sense of renewal and innovation extends to our students as well. The upcoming launch of our Bachelor of Science in Pharmaceutical Sciences program signals a historic milestone—welcoming undergraduate students into our fold for the first time in decades. These new scholars bring with them a sense of curiosity, ambition, and untapped potential that will enrich our College and propel us forward.
In the fast-paced rhythm of teaching, research, and patient care, it’s easy to lose sight of how far we’ve come. That’s why this year’s report is so important—it invites us to pause, to reflect, and to celebrate. It is a tribute to the collective resilience, creativity, and hard work that define who we are as a College and as a community. It reminds us of the extraordinary things we can accomplish together.
Within these pages, you will find stories that honor our past, highlight the inspiring work of our present, and paint a picture of an exciting future. You’ll see how our faculty, students, alumni, and supporters are shaping the future of healthcare with courage, curiosity, and compassion.
To all who make this journey possible—our alumni, employees, preceptors, students, donors, and friends—thank you. Your belief in our mission fuels everything we do. Together, we are building on a remarkable legacy and forging a bold path forward, one defined by innovation, excellence, and an unrelenting commitment to advancing human health.
With gratitude and hope for the future,
R.Kip Guy, Ph.D. Dean & Professor
SHAPING OUR FUTURE
The University of Kentucky College of Pharmacy welcomes new junior faculty, adding to its cadre of world-class health professionals, scientists, and educators.
Kristen McLaurin, Ph.D.
ASSISTANT PROFESSOR, PHARMACEUTICAL SCIENCES
McLaurin joins the University of Kentucky following an impressive academic journey. She acquired her Bachelor of Arts in Psychology, complemented by a minor in Chemistry, at Winthrop University in 2014. Her academic path led her to the University of South Carolina, where she obtained her Master of Arts and Ph.D. in Experimental Psychology. McLaurin's research primarily investigates the neural mechanisms behind neurocognitive impairments arising from opioid use disorder and/or co-occurring HIV-1. Her numerous accolades include the Research Excellence by an Early-Career Investigator Award from Neuroimmune Pharmacology and Therapeutics and the Society for Neuroimmune Pharmacology.
Kevin Tidgewell, Ph.D.
ASSISTANT PROFESSOR, PHARMACEUTICAL SCIENCES
Tidgewell brings a diverse background in medicinal and natural product chemistry. He holds a Ph.D. in Medicinal and Natural Products Chemistry from the University of Iowa and completed postdoctoral fellowships at the Scripps Institution of Oceanography, UCSD, and the Smithsonian Tropical Research Institute in Panama. His lab focuses on discovering novel ligands from marine cyanobacteria for GPCR targets, addressing issues related to pain and addiction. An ongoing project on non-opioid analgesics in Tidgewell's lab highlights his commitment to finding innovative solutions for complex health issues.
Ashlan J. Kunz Coyne, PharmD, MPH
ASSISTANT PROFESSOR, PHARMACY PRACTICE & SCIENCE
Ashlan J. Kunz Coyne, a Minnesota native, received her PharmD degree from the University of Florida and a Master of Public Health from Wayne State University. She brings substantial expertise in infectious diseases pharmacy to the department, focusing on antimicrobial pharmacokinetic/pharmacodynamic (PK/ PD) models. She aims to enhance health outcomes by optimizing conventional and novel therapeutic regimens against multidrug-resistant bacteria. Kunz Coyne is a recipient of the National Institutes of Health (NIH) LRP award, underscoring her dedication to advancing research in the field.
Caroline Geisler, Ph.D.
ASSISTANT PROFESSOR, PHARMACEUTICAL SCIENCES
Geisler brings a wealth of expertise in metabolism, neuroscience, and physiology, which will significantly enhance the College’s research and educational initiatives. Geisler’s extensive academic background includes a Bachelor of Science in Zoology from Miami University of Ohio, followed by a Master of Science and Doctor of Philosophy in Animal Science from the University of Arizona. Her doctoral and postdoctoral research has focused on the neurohormonal control of energy homeostasis, and the metabolic derangements associated with obesity. One of the projects Geisler will explore at UKCOP involves the signaling mechanisms underlying appetite and metabolic regulation by the glialproduced peptide, octadecaneuropeptide (ODN). This project includes identifying the circuits that ODN engages in the hindbrain and mapping their signaling forward to other energy-balance centers of the brain and down to the periphery, where ODN regulates the function of gut organs, including pancreatic hormone release.
Aaron Cook, PharmD, BCCCP ASSOCIATE PROFESSOR, PHARMACY PRACTICE & SCIENCE
Aaron Cook, an alumnus of UKCOP, earned his Doctor of Pharmacy degree in 2000. He completed both his PGY1 pharmacy practice residency and PGY2 critical care specialty residency at UK HealthCare, where he served as chief resident and received the Resident of the Year and Impact Awards. He later served as the residency program director for the PGY1 pharmacy residency in acute care at UK HealthCare for over a decade. During his tenure, he oversaw the training of more than 100 residents, and was instrumental in launching a new PGY1 ambulatory care program and led three successful accreditation surveys. Since 2004, Cook has been affiliated with UKCOP as an adjunct faculty member, teaching advanced pharmacotherapy and introductory critical care courses. His research portfolio is extensive, focusing on critical care facets such as neurotrauma and pharmacokinetics, with over 100 peer-reviewed articles and several book chapters to his credit. His scholarly work emphasizes the acute response to injury and includes significant contributions to multi-center studies. Among his many accolades, Cook was named UKCOP Preceptor of the Year in 2022 and Mentor of the Year by the Kentucky Society of Health-System Pharmacists in 2018.
Arun Maji, Ph.D.
ASSISTANT PROFESSOR, PHARMACEUTICAL SCIENCES
Arun Maji's academic journey began in India, where he earned a bachelor's degree in chemistry from Presidency College, Kolkata, followed by a master’s degree from the Indian Institute of Technology, Kanpur. He completed his Ph.D. in organic synthesis and catalysis at the Indian Institute of Technology, Bombay, where his research focused on developing synthetic strategies for transforming feedstock chemicals into value-added molecular scaffolds. His postdoctoral research at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, under the guidance of Martin D. Burke, M.D., Ph.D., involved groundbreaking work on the development of renal-sparing antifungal therapies. Maji’s research interests are centered on developing modular small molecules that can harness cellular functions for therapeutic intervention, with a particular focus on combating invasive fungal infections. His work aims to develop next-generation antifungal therapies that are both potent and safe, addressing the urgent global need for effective treatments against drugresistant pathogens.
Kunz Coyne (sitting)with lab members (fromlefttoright) Nicole Slain, Hunter Curry, Rachel Gray and Alex Do.
Olufunmilola Abraham joins the UK College of Pharmacy
As the new chair of Pharmacy Practice & Science, Abraham brings to UK a wealth of experience and a distinguished career in pharmacy practice, research, and education.
The University of Kentucky College of Pharmacy is proud to announce the appointment of Olufunmilola Abraham, Ph.D., as associate professor and chair of Pharmacy Practice & Science.
Abraham joins UK from the University of Wisconsin-Madison, where she served as a tenured associate professor in the School of Pharmacy's Social and Administrative Sciences Division. She is a previous NIH/UW Institute for Clinical and Translational Research (ICTR) KL2 scholar and was a fellow of the UW Collaborative Center for Health Equity and the UW Morgridge Center for Public Service.
Her academic journey began with a BPharm degree from the University of Lagos, Nigeria, followed by a Master of Science and Ph.D. in Social and Administrative Pharmacy from the University of Wisconsin-Madison School of Pharmacy. She also holds a Ph.D. minor in Industrial and Systems Engineering and a graduate certification in patient safety.
Abraham’s research focuses on improving medication use for vulnerable and underserved populations, including children, young adults, women, and individuals with chronic health conditions. She has over ten years of experience developing innovative interventions, such as game-based learning, to promote medication safety and adherence. Her work incorporates human factors and systems engineering to enhance pharmacy practice and patient care processes.
Abraham led the CRoME (Collaborative Research on MEdication use & family health) Lab at the University of Wisconsin-Madison School of Pharmacy, where she has developed various impactful projects, including MedSMART Families Intervention program, a gamebased participatory approach to facilitate parent-teen
communication about medication safety, and the Ph-EVER program, an educational resource for pharmacists, parents, and teens focused on the prevention and risks associated with e-cigarettes and vaping. Through these programs, Abraham has demonstrated a commitment to translating research into actionable solutions that benefit community health.
Abraham's research has received funding from numerous prestigious organizations, including the American Lung Association, AcademyHealth, the American Cancer Society, and the American Association of Colleges of Pharmacy (AACP). She has authored over 70 publications and delivered more than 70 scientific presentations.
"We are incredibly impressed by Dr. Abraham's extensive background and dedication to advancing pharmacy practice through innovative research and education," said Dean R. Kip Guy, Ph.D. "Her leadership and vision will be invaluable as we continue to push the boundaries of pharmacy education and practice in Kentucky. We are excited to welcome her to UK and look forward to the impactful contributions she will make."
"I am honored to join the University of Kentucky College of Pharmacy and lead the Department of Pharmacy Practice & Science," said Abraham. "I look forward to collaborating with the faculty, students, and community to advance our mission of improving health outcomes through innovative research, education, and clinical practice."
Abraham’s appointment marks a significant milestone for UKCOP, promising a future of enhanced research, education, and clinical practice under her visionary leadership.
The College of Pharmacy celebrates the legacies of our retiring faculty —who not only helped transform pharmacy education as we know it, but improved countless lives through their efforts.
HONORING OUR PAST
Pharmaceutical Sciences Faculty Jim Pauly Retires After 27 Years of Service
In 1996, Pauly joined UKCOP as an assistant professor in the Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences. Throughout his career, he has been a highly esteemed researcher and educator, making significant contributions to the field of pharmacology, particularly focusing on the neurobiological actions of nicotine. His work has been instrumental in advancing the understanding of the role of the CNS nicotinic cholinergic system in brain development, response to traumatic brain injury, and neurodegenerative conditions like Alzheimer's and Parkinson's disease.
In addition to his research efforts, Pauly has been a respected educator and mentor to numerous undergraduate, graduate, and professional students throughout his career, leaving an indelible impact on generations of pharmaceutical scientists.
“Jim served as my graduate school advisor, and as a first-generation college graduate, he served as so much more,” said S. Leigh Verbois, Ph.D., director of the Office of Drug Security, Integrity and Response at the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. “In his first meeting with me, he showcased the value of approachability and building strong, diverse teams. He emphasized balancing caring for oneself and others while not taking yourself too seriously during graduate school. He highlighted the role I must play in continuous improvement in his lab, at the University of Kentucky College of Pharmacy, and in the pharmaceutical industry. I have continued to cultivate these principles while serving the U. S. Food and Drug Administration around the world to secure a more resilient drug supply chain.”
From 2002 to 2006 and again from 2010 to 2016, Pauly held the director of graduate studies position for the Ph.D. in Pharmaceutical Sciences program. He holds the distinction of being one of the few faculty members who have worked under four different deans and several interim deans at the College. Notably, his son, Nathan Pauly, Ph.D., is the only graduate of the Pharmaceutical Sciences program whose parent also served as faculty in the department.
Matt Kelso, Ph.D., genomics account manager at Agilent Technologies, shared his gratitude for Pauly's guidance, saying, "I cannot overstate Jim's influence on my career. While I was preparing to defend my work, he provided me with a piece of advice that completely changed how I view opportunities. When discussing a job opportunity I was unsure about, he told me, 'Do not turn down a job you haven't even been offered.' It was a simple yet profound piece of wisdom that led me to explore different industries and experiences, eventually leading me to a career I truly enjoy."
Throughout his career, Pauly's commitment to academic excellence has been recognized through numerous awards and honors, including multiple Outstanding Teacher Awards at various levels of the pharmacy curriculum and the Faculty Achievement Award from the College of Pharmacy. Pauly was also a diligent supporter of the Bluegrass Chapter of the Society of Neuroscience (BGSFN), where he served various roles on the Executive Committee for over 20 years and performed an abundance of neuroscience outreach at local elementary schools and science fairs.
After a distinguished career spanning several decades, Jim Pauly, Ph.D., retired at the end of July 2023.
Distinguished Pharmacy Educator, Leader Patrick J. McNamara Retires
Patrick J. McNamara, Ph.D., received his doctoral degree from the School of Pharmacy at the University of Buffalo and set off to Basel, Switzerland as a visiting scientist at F. HoffmannLaRoche Co. Upon his return to the U.S. in 1980, McNamara joined the University of Kentucky College of Pharmacy (UKCOP) as an assistant professor. After an exceptional 43-year career as a dedicated educator, esteemed researcher, and visionary administrator, the College announces McNamara’s retirement. He leaves invaluable contributions to the pharmaceutical sciences and a permanent mark on the academic community.
Over the years, McNamara demonstrated scholarly commitment and exemplary leadership, earning successive promotions and becoming a tenured professor. His expertise in pharmacokinetics, experimental therapeutics, and pharmaceutical analysis have enriched the learning experiences of countless students. His academic proficiency includes a notable teaching portfolio, offering courses ranging from advanced biopharmaceutics to translational research. He has consistently taught the graduate-level pharmacokinetics course since 1981 and the professional program course since 2002, training thousands of students on safe and effective medication use.
“Pat has been an incredible mentor to so many of us,” said David Feola, PharmD, Ph.D., director of graduate studies for the Pharmaceutical Sciences graduate program.
“When I was a pharmacy student, I worked in his laboratory during the summers, and since then, he has become one of the most valuable mentors of my career. As a scientist, instructor, and in my administrative role, he is the first person I go to for advice. His vision, leadership, and personality capture the respect of everyone and have
been a huge factor in the success of our College. We will all miss him greatly.”
During his tenure, McNamara held numerous administrative positions, including chair of the Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, director of graduate studies, and division director at various times. From 2009 to 2018, he served as senior associate dean, and on two separate occasions, he acted as interim dean, steering the College during critical moments of transition. During that time, the College had outgrown its home in the Rose Street Building, and faculty were dispersed across different campus buildings. University leadership prioritized the construction of a new pharmacy building, setting the stage for the next level of growth and innovation at UKCOP, with McNamara playing a pivotal role.
His dedication to research and pursuit of scientific excellence earned him widespread acclaim. His work on drug transporters, pharmacokinetics, and biopharmaceutics significantly advanced the understanding of drug disposition and safety. As a result, he was elected as a fellow of both the American Association of Pharmaceutical Scientists and the American Association for the Advancement of Science, underscoring his standing as a distinguished researcher.
McNamara displayed a true passion for educating the next generation of scientists and pharmacists, serving as a major advisor to dozens of trainees over the years.
“Pat has been a guiding force in my professional journey, from the time I was his student to becoming a faculty member and later assuming an associate dean role,” said
McNamara worked for 43 year as a dedicated educator, esteemed researcher, and visionary administrator.
Craig Martin, PharmD, chief operating officer at UKCOP.
“His mentorship has been transformative, instilling the value of dedication and compassionate leadership. I witnessed firsthand his passion for teaching and genuine care for each student. As I ventured into an administrative role, his wisdom and mentorship helped me navigate challenges and embrace opportunities confidently.”
McNamara’s impact extended well beyond the boundaries of the University, with extensive consulting activities for prominent pharmaceutical companies and prestigious research institutions. With active involvement in various university committees, national organizations, and advisory boards, McNamara’s dedication to public service has been equally commendable. He was a vital member of the National Institute of Pharmaceutical Technology and
Education (NIPTE) Board of Directors and the American Association of Pharmaceutical Scientists (AAPS) Executive Committee, where he served as a member-at-large.
“Pat’s unwavering commitment to the College has been an essential component in growing its reputation at the national level,” said Dean R. Kip Guy, Ph.D. “Pat exemplifies the compassionate scholar we all aspire to be: approachable, thoughtful, rigorous, impactful, and kind. He sets the example of how one can lead a scholarly field, train newcomers, provide structure and support for their growth, and do so while extending grace to those around him. We extend our deepest gratitude for his immeasurable impact and our love for him as a colleague, and we will cherish our shared memories. I wish him the very best in his well-deserved retirement.”
Joseph L. Fink Honored with 2024 Bowl of Hygeia Award
Joseph L. Fink III, BS Pharm, JD, professor emeritus of Pharmacy Practice & Science, will receive the 2024 Bowl of Hygeia award from the Kentucky Pharmacists Association (KPhA). This award honors Fink's significant contributions to the pharmacy profession and his dedication to community service.
Since joining UKCOP in 1985, Fink has been a pivotal figure, shaping the careers of many students through his mentorship and influence. As an active member of the American Pharmacists Association (APhA), he played a key role in revising the APhA code of ethics and served as the organization’s parliamentarian for over two decades.
Fink’s community service is extensive, including chairing the board at the Center for Rural Development, participating in the National Board of Certification and Recertification for Nurse Anesthetists, and engaging
with the liaison committee on Medical Education. He has published over 700 works in pharmacy law and served as a columnist for The Kentucky Pharmacist and as an editor of Pharmacy Law Digest for over twenty years.
"The College extends heartfelt congratulations for this well-deserved recognition,” said Dean R. Kip Guy, Ph.D. “Joe’s lifelong dedication to pharmacy exemplifies the profession's highest ideals and has inspired generations of pharmacists to make a meaningful impact in healthcare. Though he officially retired in 2022, his legacy continues to inspire all of us at the College of Pharmacy."
Throughout his career, Fink has received numerous accolades, including twice being honored with the Kentucky Alumni Association’s Great Teacher award, the oldest continuously given award for teachers at the University of Kentucky.
Fink joined the UK College of Pharmacy in 1985, retiring officially in 2022.
Kenneth Record Retires from UK College of Pharmacy
Kenneth Record, PharmD, an icon in clinical pharmacy whose career at the University of Kentucky College of Pharmacy spans nearly five decades, has announced his retirement. Record’s groundbreaking contributions in critical care and infectious diseases have redefined the profession, impacting not just the University but pharmacy practice nationwide.
Born in Taylor Mill, Kentucky, Record initially pursued engineering at the University of Kentucky. However, a chance connection with peers in pharmacy ignited a passion that would define his career. Known for his forward-thinking approach, Record became a trailblazer in areas such as infectious disease, nutrition support and wellness, and critical care pharmacy, consistently pushing the boundaries of the profession.
Record, a trailblazing clinical pharmacist, is retiring after 46 years of transformative service.
Former mentee Sara Parli, PharmD, reflected on Record’s lasting influence: “Dr. Record passed part of his torch to me, especially in trauma and acute care surgery. Thanks to him, we now have six pharmacists covering this service during the week. His approach to layered learning and mentorship has influenced how I mentor students and residents today.”
Record’s mentorship extended beyond the clinical realm. “Ken probably didn’t realize it, but I took advantage of his wisdom during our annual fishing trips— picking his brain on everything from keeping students engaged to handling challenging classroom situations,” said Rusty May, PharmD. “I see his influence in my own teaching evaluations, where I often hear echoes of Ken’s approach.”
An early advocate for antibiotic stewardship, Record was a pioneer long before the concept gained mainstream recognition. He was instrumental in integrating pharmacists into core clinical teams, particularly in trauma and critical care settings—a model now widely adopted across the nation. His leadership helped elevate the College as a national leader in clinical pharmacy practice. Record’s research on infectious diseases, sepsis, and critical care pharmacotherapy has been published in top journals, including Clinical Pharmacy, Pharmacotherapy, and Annals of Pharmacotherapy.
Beyond his research, Record spent over 35 years teaching essential courses in antibiotics, nutrition, and wellness, shaping the College’s curriculum and leaving a lasting mark on countless students. His longtime colleague, Mary H. H. Ensom, PharmD, recognized his impact: “Ken was part of the cohort I often called ‘the gods and goddesses of clinical pharmacy.’ His influence stretches far beyond the classroom—through his work as an educator and mentor, he’s shaped the future of the profession.”
As a former resident under the legendary Paul F. Parker, D.Sc. (h.c.), and Robert Rapp, PharmD, Record was deeply influenced by their commitment to hands-on learning, which he carried forward in his own career. “Ken’s love for the residency program was always evident,” said Aaron Cook, PharmD. “He showed every new generation of residents why UK is such a special place to train.”
Record has received numerous honors throughout his career, including the Paul F. Parker Award, the Michael J. Lach Award for Innovations in Teaching, and the Kappa Psi Outstanding Grand Council Deputy Award. His leadership roles in organizations such as the American Society of Health-System Pharmacists and the American College of Clinical Pharmacy further solidify his lasting legacy.
In his retirement, Record plans to stay connected with the University, and looks forward to spending more time with family, traveling, reading, playing tennis, and playing the mandolin with his beloved Bluegrass band, 27 South. His music, much like his career, continues to enrich the lives of those around him.
Celebrating the living legacy of Robert J. Kuhn
For nearly four decades, Robert J. Kuhn, Pharm.D., the Kentucky Hospital Association Endowed Professor, has proudly served the University of Kentucky College of Pharmacy. His storied career offers a profound illustration of the pivotal role pharmacists play in shaping health care, particularly in specialized fields like pediatric pharmacotherapy and cystic fibrosis care.
Kuhn’s journey into pharmacy began in a small-town drugstore, where a summer job sparked a passion for health care that would drive him throughout his life. From these modest beginnings, he rose to become a pioneer in pediatric pharmacy, transforming the treatment landscape for children with cystic fibrosis. His innovations have not only extended patients’ lives but have also set new standards in clinical practice.
One of the defining moments in his career came when Kuhn volunteered at a camp for children with cystic
fibrosis. This experience ignited his lifelong dedication to improving their care.
“Bob’s contributions have advanced the frontiers of pediatric pharmacy practice, especially for children with cystic fibrosis,” said Milap Nahata, Pharm.D., Kuhn’s longtime colleague and mentor. Kuhn’s commitment to advocating for pharmacists’ roles in multidisciplinary teams has redefined cystic fibrosis care centers across the U.S. Kuhn’s impact has been acknowledged through numerous prestigious awards, underscoring his national and international influence. Among these honors are the Richard Helms Award for Excellence in Pediatric Pharmacy Practice, the ACCP Pediatric PRN Outstanding Achievement Award and the ASHP Outstanding Preceptor of the Year Award. Locally, he has been named Pharmacist of the Year by the Kentucky Society of Health-System Pharmacists, received the Paul Parker Award and earned
Kuhn’s work stands as a testament to the lasting impact pharmacists can have — not only on patients, but on the future of the profession.
Kuhn's dedication to mentoring future leaders in pediatric pharmacy has shaped more than 40 pharmacy residents, many of whom now lead in the field.
the title of Honorary UK Pharmacy Resident. These accolades are a reflection of the respect he commands within the pharmacy community.
Kuhn’s influence extends far beyond his clinical achievements. His dedication to mentoring future leaders in pediatric pharmacy has shaped more than 40 pharmacy residents, many of whom now lead in the field. Elizabeth Autry, Pharm.D., a former resident, trained under Kuhn.
“Dr. Robert Kuhn’s career exemplifies the highest standards of excellence in pharmacy,” he said. “His impact on pediatric pharmacotherapy, particularly in cystic fibrosis care, has changed the lives of countless patients and their families. He has transformed clinical care and inspired a generation of pharmacists through his mentorship, education and leadership. We are incredibly fortunate to have had him as a part of our faculty, and his dedication and compassion have made a lasting impression on us all. His legacy at the University of Kentucky and the broader pharmacy community will be felt for many years."
Nahata echoes the sentiments of many when he reflects on the long-lasting contributions Kuhn has made to pharmacy and beyond.
“I admire Bob’s values and feel proud of his accomplishments and many honors,” he said. “His impactful work involving patients with cystic fibrosis was the driver to establish the essential role of a pharmacist on every cystic fibrosis team across the U.S.”
“Through his vision, pediatric pharmacy services have expanded dramatically,” she said. “His mentorship has opened doors for me academically, clinically and professionally. I’m honored to be one of his graduates.”
His colleagues, including Jamshed Kanga, M.D., chief of pediatric pulmonology at Kentucky Children’s Hospital, also highlight his profound contributions.
“His work led to the approval of ciprofloxacin for use in children with cystic fibrosis, a milestone that transformed treatment outcomes,” Kanga said. Kuhn’s integration of pharmacists into cystic fibrosis care teams set a benchmark for collaborative health care.
Pharmacy Dean Kip Guy expressed his deep gratitude for Kuhn's contributions.
As a revered educator and leader, Kuhn took pride in shaping a program that not only produced skilled pharmacists, but also compassionate caregivers. His former mentees often recall his commitment to patient care. Autry highlights one of Kuhn’s guiding principles — nothing comes before the care of a sick child — as an ethos that became the cornerstone of his teaching and clinical practice. Its influence is evident in the thriving network of pediatric pharmacists he helped cultivate.
Although Kuhn is stepping into retirement, he remains committed to advancing the field. As a founding and current board member, he remains actively involved with Mission Health Lexington, also known as Faith Pharmacy. In retirement, he plans to mentor the next generation of pediatric pharmacists while spending more time with his spouse, Jan, and their four grandchildren.
Reflecting on his career, Kuhn shared his hope to be remembered for his dedication to patient care and his role in expanding the boundaries of pharmacy practice: “Just because pharmacists aren’t involved in something doesn’t mean they can’t be.”
Kuhn with his family at his retirement party in early 2024.
From innovative faculty who shape the future of healthcare to students driven by a passion for learning and service, our community is working tirelessly to advance pharmacy practice and improve lives across the Commonwealth and beyond.
OUR COMMUNITY
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PHARMD & PHD STUDENTS
POSTDOCTORAL SCHOLARS
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College of Pharmacy Maintains Top National Ranking
The University of Kentucky College of Pharmacy (UKCOP) is proud to announce it has upheld its position as the sixthranked school of pharmacy in the United States, according to the latest U.S. News & World Report rankings for 2024. This designation places UKCOP among the top echelon of 141 accredited PharmD programs nationally.
Since the start of the U.S. News & World Report graduate school rankings 30 years ago, UKCOP has consistently ranked in the top 10 pharmacy schools, underscoring its long-standing reputation for excellence in education ("A growth industry", 1993). This continued success traces back even further, building on a rich history that saw the College ranked fifth nationally in 1973 by another journal before the U.S. News rankings were established (Margulies & Blau, 1973).
Since its previous recognition as a top ten college of pharmacy in 2020, UKCOP has reached several significant milestones:
• Celebrated its sesquicentennial anniversary, commemorating 150 years of leadership and innovation in pharmacy education, practice, and research.
• Achieved reaccreditation through June 2032 by the Accreditation Council for Pharmacy Education (ACPE), securing the most extended reaccreditation term possible and underscoring the College’s adherence to the highest standards of educational quality.
• Exceeded fundraising expectations within the Kentucky CAN campaign, raising $31.34 million—56% above the goal. This monumental success included establishing the University of Kentucky’s first named Deanship, enhancing the College’s leadership and legacy.
• Strengthened research capabilities and national prominence by welcoming eight new faculty members who will advance the College’s core research disciplines.
Dean R. Kip Guy expressed his pride in these achievements, stating, “Our faculty, staff, and students continue to push the boundaries of what is possible in pharmacy education and patient care. These accomplishments not only reflect
our commitment to excellence but also position us uniquely to lead in an evolving healthcare landscape. Being recognized consistently as one of the top ten programs nationally is a testament to our community’s hard work and dedication.”
The ranking by U.S. News & World Report is based on peer assessments from deans and faculty members of other accredited pharmacy schools, reinforcing the University of Kentucky College of Pharmacy’s reputation within the academic community.
Expanding Pharmacy Services to Underserved Communities
Bluegrass Community Health Center (BCHC) has been dedicated to providing comprehensive healthcare to underserved central Kentucky communities for over two decades. Through its partnership with the University of Kentucky College of Pharmacy (UKCOP), BCHC ensures that underserved and vulnerable community members receive appropriate, compassionate care, including equitable and affordable medication access.
Since 2013, BCHC and UKCOP have collaborated to offer clinical pharmacy services. Under the leadership of thenExecutive Director Susan Fister, PhD, RN, and Medical Director Alan Wrightson, MD, the partnership enlisted the expertise of two UKCOP faculty members, Melanie Dicks, PharmD, and Holly Divine, PharmD. Together, they developed protocols and policies to assist patients with chronic disease management, hepatitis C, substance use disorder treatment, and other conditions requiring pharmacy expertise. The team grew to include five pharmacists who integrated seamlessly with the BCHC care team, working alongside medical and behavioral health providers, nurses, care coordinators, and peer support specialists.
In July 2022, BCHC welcomed its first full-time clinical pharmacist, Kelsie Skaggs, PharmD. Skaggs expanded clinical pharmacy services at BCHC and established a retail pharmacy exclusively for BCHC patients. In March 2023, the team further expanded with the addition of its first full-time staff pharmacist, Molly Carr, PharmD, MBA. Their dedication to BCHC's mission culminated in opening the first onsite pharmacy at the Eagle Creek Drive location in Lexington in April 2023.
The expansion of services at BCHC ensures access to affordable medications for all individuals in need, regardless of insurance status. Through an incomebased sliding fee discount, uninsured patients can obtain medications at significantly reduced costs. Additionally, BCHC's medical and pharmacy staff prioritize Spanishspeaking services for Kentucky's migrant and seasonal farm workers and provide other language interpretation services for refugees, facilitating access to clinic and pharmacy services in patients' native languages.
The pharmacy team at BCHC offers a wide range of services, including medication education and review, vaccine administration, and convenient home delivery. Skaggs’ appointment as a full-time clinical pharmacist highlights BCHC's recognition of the value brought by clinical pharmacy faculty members and the communitybased pharmacy residency program.
Skaggs attributes her success in assuming a role as BCHC’s first full-time clinical pharmacist to her experiences training at UKCOP. "The College's PharmD and residency programs played a pivotal role in developing my skills for direct patient care in both the community pharmacy and clinic settings," she states. "I am honored to have contributed to opening BCHC Pharmacy, which works to serve communities facing barriers. I am excited to continue to expand BCHC’s services and make a meaningful impact in this setting."
The ongoing collaboration between Bluegrass Community Health Center and the University of Kentucky College of Pharmacy is transforming healthcare delivery, paving the way for a healthier and more equitable future for the people of Kentucky.
Molly Carr, PharmD, MBA, and Kelsie Skaggs, PharmD at the Eagle Creek BCHC Pharmacy.
Recognizing our 2024 Distinguished Preceptors
The University of Kentucky College of Pharmacy inducted five preceptors into the Hall of Distinguished Preceptors on April 19, 2024. These awards recognize preceptor excellence and dedication to educating future pharmacists through experiential learning.
APPE PRECEPTOR OF THE YEAR
Elizabeth Autry, PharmD, BCPPS
Elizabeth Autry is a graduate of the University of North Carolina Eshelman School of Pharmacy in Chapel Hill, North Carolina. Following graduation, she undertook a pharmacy practice residency at ECU Health, previously known as Vidant Medical Center, in Greenville, North Carolina. With a burgeoning interest in pediatric pharmacy, she moved to Lexington, Kentucky, for a Pediatric Specialty Residency under the guidance of Robert Kuhn at UK HealthCare and Kentucky Children’s Hospital.
Completing her specialty training led Autry to accept a position as a Pediatric Clinical Pharmacist, specializing in pediatric pulmonary medicine and working across inpatient and outpatient settings. Her role expanded to include pediatric allergy and immunology clinical services. In addition to her clinical duties, Autry holds adjunct appointments at the University of Kentucky Colleges of Pharmacy and Medicine, illustrating her dedication to the education of students and residents. She has taken on numerous educational roles, such as preceptor, advisor, and mentor, and most notably, has become the residency program director for the PGY2 Pediatric Pharmacy at UK HealthCare and Kentucky Children’s Hospital.
Within a year of starting her clinical practice, Autry established an advanced pharmacy practice experience in pediatric ambulatory care, mentoring countless students over the past decade. She actively promotes student engagement through shadowing opportunities, informally
and formally, via student organizations like PediaKATS. At the College of Pharmacy, she has welcomed longitudinal introductory pharmacy practice experience students, introducing them to the breadth of opportunities in pediatric pharmacy. Her commitment to fostering student growth toward residency training is further evidenced by her role as a ResCAT mentor since the program’s inception.
By participating on the University of Kentucky College of Pharmacy preceptor advisory committee, Autry contributes significantly to experiential education. Over the years, she has demonstrated that experiential learning enriches future pharmacists' training and ensures student learners' success under her guidance.
IPPE PRECEPTOR OF THE YEAR
Shelley Roberts, PharmD
Shelley Roberts, a native of Parkersburg, West Virginia, arrived in Kentucky in 2002 to attend the University of Kentucky, where she completed her undergraduate and professional studies. Earning a PharmD degree in 2008 from the UK College of Pharmacy marked a pivotal moment in her life, academically and personally, as she met Lindsey Roberts, her future husband. Their shared love for the Bluegrass region inspired them to make Lexington their home, where they have built a fulfilling life with their four children and two dogs.
Roberts began her career at Kmart Pharmacy, rising to the pharmacy manager position. Seeking to innovate within the retail pharmacy sector, Roberts and her husband
opened Grassroots Pharmacy. This venture reflects their vision for a pharmacy prioritizing wellness and overall well-being. Roberts, trained with the Institute of Functional Medicine, champions a holistic approach to health, advocating for a healthcare model that integrates nutrition, exercise, supplement knowledge, and root cause analysis to enhance patient outcomes.
Beyond her professional commitments, Roberts and her husband founded the Grassroots Running Club, a nonprofit organization that supports youth running programs in central Kentucky. They personally coach 150 elementary students in cross country and track and field at Liberty Elementary School annually and assist other schools in expanding their running programs.
With nearly a decade of experience in precepting students, Roberts finds great satisfaction mentoring the next generation of pharmacists. She is committed to enriching their educational journey by emphasizing the profession's intricacies and the significance of advocacy.
COMMONWEALTH EXPERIENCE PRECEPTOR OF THE YEAR
Tara Neitzel, PharmD, BCPS
Tara Neitzel was born in Paintsville, Kentucky, and raised in Virginia Beach, Virginia. She returned to Kentucky to complete her undergraduate studies at the University of Kentucky, where she also earned her Doctor of Pharmacy degree in 2012. Neitzel furthered her professional training with a PGY1 residency at Ephraim McDowell Regional Medical Center in Danville, Kentucky, where she began her career journey as a clinical staff pharmacist. Her dedication and hard work led her to become board-certified in pharmacotherapy, fulfilling a significant professional goal.
In her role at Ephraim McDowell, Neitzel took on the responsibility of precepting residents in the emergency medicine required rotation and the advanced emergency medicine elective rotation. Her commitment to education and mentorship was further recognized in 2018 when she was appointed PGY1 residency program director. The following year, Neitzel introduced longitudinal experiential education for pharmacy students into the residency program, enhancing the training by allowing residents to
precept students and allowing students a unique learning experience within the community hospital environment.
Neitzel's passion for education shines through her efforts to ensure that students receive thorough orientation, clear expectations, and access to essential resources during their learning experiences. As the residency program director, she finds it particularly rewarding to see residents grow into their roles as preceptors and mentors. Neitzel cherishes the moments when she encounters former students at residency-related events, celebrating their accomplishments and successes. Her journey reflects a deep commitment to nurturing the next generation of pharmacy professionals.
THE CHRISTOPHER MILLER LOUISVILLE CEC PRECEPTOR OF THE YEAR
William Reesor, PharmD,
BCPS
Originally from Louisville, Kentucky, William Reesor began his pharmacy career at the University of Kentucky, obtaining a Doctor of Pharmacy degree in 2014. His journey continued with a PGY1 residency at Robley Rex Veteran Affairs Medical Center in Louisville, leading to a role in the inpatient pharmacy and, subsequently, the position of ICU pharmacist in 2019. Throughout his career, Reesor has valued the opportunity to mentor pharmacy students.
Reesor's approach to precepting is rooted in two fundamental principles. First, he emphasizes translating academic knowledge into practical skills and integrating it into a team dynamic, which is especially critical in the ICU's multidisciplinary environment. He believes that a preceptor's role is to teach and model these skills, showing how to apply them in real-world settings.
Second, Reesor champions that effective precepting should be personalized, catering to each trainee's unique interests, abilities, and aspirations. He strives to make complex concepts understandable, encourages critical thinking, and fosters a sense of initiative. Reesor finds joy in mentoring students from diverse backgrounds, especially those not initially directed towards acute care, and appreciates the mutual benefits of such mentorship. Reesor believes in the medical principle of treating the patient rather than the symptoms to inspire a passion
for lifelong learning and development in the pharmacy profession. Reesor is committed to continuing his mentorship, hoping to impact positively the careers of many future pharmacists.
NEW PRECEPTOR OF THE YEAR
Kelly Karrick, PharmD
Raised in Olympia, Kentucky, and a Bath County High School graduate, Kelly Karrick began his path to a career in pharmacy with pre-pharmacy courses at both the University of Kentucky and Morehead State University. After earning his degree from the University of Kentucky College of Pharmacy in 2014, Karrick began his career at Campton Discount Drugs in Campton, Kentucky.
The following year, Karrick advanced to the role of pharmacist in charge at Whitaker Pharmacy in Mt. Sterling, Kentucky, where he implemented immunization protocols and expanded the non-sterile compounding business. Additionally, Karrick developed a medication synchronization program that now benefits over 400 patients, enhancing medication compliance. Currently, he works with students to broaden clinical services
through medical billing, a strategic move to ensure the sustainability of independent pharmacies.
Since 2018, Karrick has been a preceptor for various stages of pharmacy students, including introductory and advanced pharmacy practice experiences. Reflecting on the influence of his preceptors, Karrick is motivated to pass on his knowledge to the next generation of pharmacists. He takes great joy in mentoring students, aiming to highlight the merits of independent community pharmacy.
Karrick cherishes the opportunity to precept motivated students, finding their enthusiasm and fresh perspectives invaluable for maintaining a dynamic learning environment at his pharmacy. His students contribute to various projects, from vaccine clinics to the development of new clinical protocols and compounding formulas, bringing contemporary clinical insights that spur his professional growth.
Karrick is dedicated to showing students the rewards of a career in independent pharmacy and equipping them to be competent pharmacists capable of contributing meaningfully. He also takes pleasure in following the career progress of his former students and celebrating their achievements. Karrick is committed to continuing his preceptor role and enriching pharmacy students' educational experiences for many years.
Bonds across borders: 35 years of partnership with Kitasato University
This year, the University of Kentucky College of Pharmacy (UKCOP) marks a significant milestone: the 35th anniversary of its academic exchange program with Kitasato University School of Pharmacy in Tokyo, Japan. Since its inception in 1989, this enduring partnership has facilitated a robust exchange of knowledge, cultural understanding, and innovative practices, profoundly impacting pharmacy education and training in both countries.
The UKCOP-Kitasato University exchange program was established to promote international collaboration in pharmacy education. For multiple decades, the program has enabled faculty and students from both universities to share insights, participate in joint research projects, and experience diverse healthcare environments. More than 200 Kitasato University students have visited UKCOP, gaining invaluable exposure to American healthcare practices and patient-centered care.
"The exchange program has been instrumental in broadening the perspectives of our students and faculty," said Melody Ryan, PharmD, director of International Professional Student Education. "The cross-cultural interactions and shared experiences enrich our educational environment and enhance our understanding of global healthcare practices."
In June 2024, a group of Kitasato students visited Lexington, where they met with faculty, visited healthcare facilities and pharmacies, and engaged in cultural activities around the state. These visits not only deepened the students' understanding of American pharmacy practices but also strengthened the bonds of friendship and collaboration between the two institutions.
In addition to hosting Kitasato University students, UKCOP provides numerous opportunities for its own students to travel abroad. These include Advanced Pharmacy Practice Experiences (APPEs) at nine international sites, including Ecuador, England, Poland, Romania, Scotland, and Thailand. These six-week rotations for fourth-year pharmacy students offer an in-depth exploration of another country's healthcare system and culture, fostering personal growth, boosting confidence, and enhancing language skills by immersing students in environments where the language is spoken daily. UKCOP also offers faculty-led study abroad programs in Germany, the United Kingdom, and Japan and short-term medical outreach clinics in Ecuador through Shoulder-to-Shoulder Global.
"Our global education programs are designed to prepare our students for the international nature of healthcare today," added Ryan. "By experiencing different healthcare systems and cultures, our students gain a broader perspective, become more independent, and are better equipped to serve diverse patient populations."
Healthcare is a global endeavor, and UKCOP embraces international learning through various educational programs. From courses offered in other countries to a global classroom at the Lee T. Todd, Jr. Building, the College ensures its students have the skills and knowledge to compete in an international profession. Courses such as "Interprofessional Teamwork for Global Health" and "Design Thinking for Global Health" as well as participation in the Interprofessional Global Health Case Competition, offer students unique perspectives on pharmacy practice in other countries.
FACING PAGE: UKCOP's Robert J. Kuhn poses for a photo with Kitasato exchange students.
The success of the UKCOP-Kitasato University academic exchange program is a testament to the shared commitment to excellence in pharmacy education and the dedication to fostering global collaboration. As it celebrates the 35th anniversary of this partnership, the College looks forward to continuing this tradition of excellence and mutual benefit for many years to come.
From groundbreaking research and clinical advancements to entrepreneurial ventures and public health initiatives, our alumni inspire the next generation of professionals while advancing the profession to meet the challenges of tomorrow.
16 COUNTRIES
67 COMPANIES, CEOS, FOUNDERS & PRESIDENTS
50
6,896 LIVING ALUMNI US STATES & PUERTO RICO
12 DEANS, VPS OR PROVOSTS
José Rivera Named 2023 Paul Parker Award Recipient
José O. Rivera, PharmD, R77, current and founding dean of the University of Texas at El Paso (UTEP) School of Pharmacy, has been named as the recipient of the 2023 Paul F. Parker Award. This distinguished recognition was conferred at the American Society of Health-System Pharmacists (ASHP) Midyear meeting in Anaheim, California.
The Paul F. Parker Award stands as a symbol of a lifetime's worth of accomplishments, presented annually to a former University of Kentucky Pharmacy Residency Program resident or an individual closely linked with the program's resounding success. The recipient of this award exemplifies a sustained commitment to advancing the pharmacy profession through contributions to practice, teaching, or research. The awardee must demonstrate unwavering dedication to the highest standards of excellence in their chosen field, exhibit leadership and innovation, and exhibit a profound commitment to fostering the personal and professional growth of others.
assumed the role of a critical care pharmacist at R.E. Thomason General Hospital. His significant contributions led him to become a clinical associate professor with the UTEP Cooperative Pharmacy Program, eventually ascending to the position of its director in January 2001.
Rivera is recognized as a stalwart leader in pharmacy education and practice, boasting an impressive array of publications and presentations spanning topics such as cultural competency, alternative herbal treatments, antibiotic resistance, and pharmacotherapy of infectious diseases. His research on border health, complementary alternative medicine, and medication literacy has received funding from the Paso del Norte Health Foundation, Thomason Hospital, and several pharmaceutical companies.
Originally from Barranquitas, Puerto Rico, Rivera earned a Bachelor of Science in Pharmacy from the Universidad de Puerto Rico in 1976. Subsequently, he pursued a Doctor of Pharmacy degree at the University of Kentucky, with a concurrent residency program at the University of Kentucky Medical Center in 1979, at the time led by Paul F.Parker.
In the years following graduation, Rivera worked in the clinical and academic realms, contributing his expertise to institutions such as the University of Cincinnati and the University of New Mexico in Albuquerque. In 1995, he relocated to El Paso, Texas, where he served as director of pharmacy services at Sierra Medical Center. He later
His illustrious career has been punctuated by numerous honors and accolades, including recognition as a fellow of the UTEP Center for Hispanic Entrepreneurship (Kauffman Foundation) in 2008, the University of Texas at El Paso Faculty Research Award in 2007, and the El Paso Pharmacy Association Pharmacy Research and Education Award in 2001.
In addition to the founding deanship at UTEP School of Pharmacy, Rivera maintains roles as a clinical professor and assistant dean at the University of Texas at Austin College of Pharmacy. In his current role, Rivera is dedicated to increasing the number of pharmacy graduates from the program, providing students in El Paso with opportunities to enter the pharmacy profession, and continuing his groundbreaking research endeavors focused on healthcare within the border population.
José O. Rivera, PharmD, the 2023 Paul F. Parker Award recipient.
Recognizing Distinguished Alumni Achievements
Three accomplished University of Kentucky College of Pharmacy alumni were inducted into the College’s Hall of Distinguished Alumni in 2024.
LIFETIME ACHIEVEMENT AWARD
Carol G. Gallagher, PharmD
Carol Gallagher, a distinguished figure in the biopharmaceutical sector, most recently served as partner of global venture capital at New Enterprise Associates, Inc. (NEA). Gallagher is a proven entrepreneur, operator, and investor with over 30 years of experience in drug development and business development roles. Since 2014, her focus at NEA has been on biopharma investments, where she leveraged her expertise across various therapeutic areas and stages of development.
Before NEA, Gallagher held a venture partner position at Frazier Healthcare and served as an independent director on the boards of several groundbreaking biopharma companies, including Aragon Pharmaceuticals, eFFECTOR Therapeutics, and Seragon Pharmaceuticals. Her leadership roles extend to the boards of Atara Bio, AnaptysBio, Cleave Biosciences, and Millendo, where her strategic insights and industry experience contributed significantly to their success. Notably, Gallagher was the president and CEO of Calistoga Pharmaceuticals from 2008 to 2011, where she led the development and successful acquisition of the first-in-class cancer therapeutic, CAL-101 (now ZYDELIG), by Gilead Sciences.
Gallagher’s career is marked by a passion for the "business of science," driving innovation and transformation in healthcare. In addition to leading Calistoga Pharmaceuticals to a successful exit, she has served in critical roles at Amgen, Pfizer, and Eli Lilly. She has been recognized for her contributions to the life sciences with the Duane Roth Distinguished Contribution Award.
LIFETIME ACHIEVEMENT AWARD
Samuel M.
Poloyac, PharmD, Ph.D.
Samuel Poloyac has served as dean and the James T. Doluisio Regents chair at the University of Texas at Austin College of Pharmacy (UTCOP) since October 2020. He graduated from the University of Pittsburgh in 1993 with a Bachelor of Science in Pharmacy and subsequently received a Doctor of Pharmacy (’95) and a Ph.D. in Pharmaceutical Sciences (’99) from the University of Kentucky.
Before arriving at UT Austin, Poloyac served as professor of Pharmaceutical Sciences and associate dean for graduate and postdoctoral programs at the University of Pittsburgh School of Pharmacy. Currently, he is focused on leveraging UTCOP’s strength as a national leader in practice, education, and research to advance pharmacy innovation for health. Poloyac is equally committed to training the next generation of outstanding pharmacists and pharmaceutical scientists to become bold problemsolvers, talented communicators, and leaders to revolutionize patient care and health outcomes in Texas and the world.
His research career has focused on determining the role of drug-metabolizing enzymes in regulating brain blood flow and drug clearance in critically ill patients. Research in his laboratory has received support from the National Institutes of Health and the American Heart Association, which led to over 115 peer-reviewed publications. He is a fellow of the Society of Critical Care Medicine and the American Association of Colleges of Pharmacy Academic Leadership Program.
YOUNG ALUMNI AWARD
Danielle M. Griggs, PharmD, MBA, MS
Danielle Griggs has served as chief pharmacy officer at UVA Health since October 2023. In this role, Griggs leads expansive pharmacy services across four medical centers in Virginia. Her promotion to this crucial role underscores her dedication and skill in steering over 500 frontline pharmacy team members. Pharmacy Services at UVA Health is pivotal in delivering critical medications to patients throughout central and northern Virginia, a task of immense responsibility and impact on community health. Griggs has demonstrated significant contributions and leadership growth at UVA Health, illustrating her deep
commitment to pharmacy excellence. She adeptly managed medication procurement and drug expense management, broadening her scope to include medication formulary oversight, clinical and operational program management, and addressing drug shortages and compliance operations. Her promotion in 2019 to senior director of pharmacy, becoming responsible for the health system’s pharmacy business operations, is a testament to her effective management and visionary leadership.
Griggs received a Doctor of Pharmacy and Master of Business Administration degree from the University of Kentucky, complemented by a health system pharmacy administration residency at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, where she also earned a Master of Science degree. Her focus on innovative patient care solutions, pharmacy operational excellence, and team development underscores her commitment to enhancing healthcare delivery across Virginia.
2023 Lyman T. Johnson Award Recipients
Pheli Roberts received her Doctor of Pharmacy in 1998 and has been a pillar of growth and advancement in the profession. She has been a part of the Kroger Pharmacy organization since 1999 and now serves as the division health and wellness leader at Kroger Pharmacy in Louisville, Ky. Roberts has been published in the Journal of American Pharmacists Association with a few of her colleagues and is certified in multiple APhA trainings. She has also been recognized by Kroger for Excellence in Clinical Care and as the Outstanding Preceptor for UK CEC. Roberts was the 2012 and 2015 African American Honoree for “Who’s Who Louisville” and was nominated for the Top Women in Grocery Rising Star Award in 2021.
Kristen Crowe, PharmD, completed the Doctor of Pharmacy program in 2024. She served on the UK College of Pharmacy admissions committee and the student affairs committee. She has served as the community service chair and secretary in the Student National Pharmaceutical Association, an organization whose purpose is to plan, organize, coordinate and execute programs geared toward improvement for the health, educational and social environment of the community. Crowe also served as student ambassador for the College of Pharmacy.
2023 TORCH OF EXCELLENCE
Pheli Roberts
2023 TORCH BEARER Kristen Crowe, PharmD
DEPARTMENTS
A primary mission of the College is to improve health through innovative disease treatments by fostering transdisciplinary collaborations within the University's growing research and clinical enterprises.
Trish Freeman, left, and Brooke Hudspeth.
Transforming Pharmacy Practice for a Healthier Kentucky
The University of Kentucky College of Pharmacy plans to expand and restructure the Center for the Advancement of Pharmacy Practice (CAPP), under the leadership of its new director Brooke Hudspeth, PharmD, chief practice officer.
The revamped CAPP is poised to build upon a 12-year history of transforming pharmacy practice and education under the strategic leadership of previous director Trish Freeman, Ph.D. This legacy includes helping pass Kentucky’s first law to allow pharmacists to initiate naloxone dispensing, helping to implement Board Authorized Protocols across the state, and supporting the enactment of legislation mandating commercial insurance payment for pharmacy services.
Freeman stated, “With the hiring of Dr. Hudspeth as Chief Practice Officer in support of the College’s strategic plan, it was an auspicious moment for us to expand CAPP with renewed focus on meeting the Center’s three primary goals: engagement, education and practice transformation.”
Advocacy for changes within pharmacy practice that amplify the role of pharmacists is central to CAPP's mission. This includes strengthening alumni and preceptor relationships and fostering alliances with professional organizations, health systems, and community organizations. Freeman will continue serving as the director of professional advocacy, with the aim of advancing this goal.
CAPP will increase ongoing efforts to identify the educational needs of pharmacists, develop tailored educational programs, and provide training opportunities that empower pharmacists to enhance their practice standards through the establishment of the Continuing Professional Development Office (CPDO), directed by Adrienne Matson, PharmD. The CPDO will provide evidence-based educational activities supporting the
advancement of pharmacy practice and lifelong professional development.
CPDO programs will extend to external partners, furthering the deployment of innovative practice initiatives. The overarching goal is to cultivate collaborative relationships, enhance faculty and preceptor development, refine experiential education sites, and ultimately advance pharmacy practice on a regional and national scale.
CAPP also transforms practice through scholarship related to innovative practice models, facilitating their development, implementation, and evaluation. In his role as practice implementation pharmacist, Kyle Bryan, PharmD, is focused on supporting pharmacists in all areas of practice advancement through implementation of novel practice models and medical billing for services.
“CAPP's relaunch initiative comes at an opportune time, synergizing with existing efforts at the College to engage in new partnerships and further our strategic objectives,” said Hudspeth. “Together, we are poised to identify and address the evolving educational and practice needs of pharmacists, fostering a new era of excellence in pharmacy practice.”
Under this dynamic team, CAPP is committed to establishing partnerships focused on innovative and sustainable practice models. As director of practice advancement partnerships, Stacy Taylor, PharmD, leads these efforts through the development of strategic partnerships and engagement for practice advancement, as well as providing residency advancement leadership for the Center.
With a recharged leadership team, an expanded focus, and a commitment to innovation, the University of Kentucky College of Pharmacy is positioned to lead the way in transformative changes, ultimately contributing to a healthier Commonwealth for all.
New CAPP director Brooke Hudspeth (top) and previous director Trish Freeman
UK College of Pharmacy named inaugural ACT Community Pharmacy Center of Excellence
The University of Kentucky College of Pharmacy (UKCOP) has been honored by the American Association of Colleges of Pharmacy (AACP) as one of the inaugural ACT Community Pharmacy Centers of Excellence. This prestigious recognition underscores UKCOP’s unwavering commitment to advancing community pharmacy through exemplary teaching, service, scholarship, leadership, and partnerships.
Joining sixteen other selected institutions, UKCOP will play a pivotal role in transforming community pharmacy practice. The centers will act as ambassadors for pharmacy education, collaborating with leaders in pharmacy and healthcare to drive community pharmacy practice transformation.
The College’s pharmacy practice champions team includes:
• Clark Kebodeaux, PharmD, BCACP, clinical associate professor, ACT Champion
• Tera McIntosh, PharmD, associate professor, ACT Champion
• Brooke Hudspeth, PharmD, associate professor and chief practice officer, director of the Center for the Advancement of Pharmacy Practice (CAPP)
• Trish Freeman, RPh, PhD, FAPhA, FNAP, professor, director of advocacy
• Stacy Taylor, PharmD, MHA, BCPS, associate professor, director of practice advancement partnerships
• Adrienne Matson, PharmD, BCPS, adjunct assistant professor, Continuing Professional Development Office director
• Kyle Bryan, PharmD, adjunct assistant professor, practice implementation pharmacist
• Kristen Lawson, program coordinator
UKCOP's pharmacy practice champions team.
The College was formally honored at the AACP annual meeting, Pharmacy Education 2024, in Boston on Tuesday, July 23, during the AACP Transformation Center: Accelerating Community-based Pharmacy Practice Transformation session.
“We’re proud to be recognized as an inaugural ACT Community Pharmacy Center of Excellence,” said Kebodeaux. “This designation underscores our dedication to advancing community pharmacy and preparing our students to be leaders in the field.”
“This recognition is a testament to our collaborative efforts in transforming community pharmacy,” added Hudspeth. “Our goal is to enhance pharmacy services and integrate them more deeply into community healthcare, ensuring Kentucky is at the forefront of these advancements.”
About the ACT Pharmacy Collaborative
The Academia-Community Transformation (ACT) Pharmacy Collaborative fosters collaboration between schools of pharmacy and community pharmacy practices to advance community pharmacy practice through teaching, service, scholarship, leadership, and partnerships.
The
University of Kentucky Innovators Win $50K DataWorks! Challenge Prize
A collaborative team from the University of Kentucky’s Institute for Biomedical Informatics and Institute for Pharmaceutical Outcomes and Policy, comprising Daniel Harris, Ph.D., Chris Delcher, Ph.D., and Nick Anthony, was awarded a $50,000 prize in the 2023 DataWorks! Challenge. This challenge is a flagship initiative sponsored by the Federation of American Societies for Experimental Biology (FASEB) and the National Institutes of Health (NIH), designed to spotlight and support innovative projects that emphasize data sharing and reuse in the scientific community.
The FASEB is a leading organization dedicated to advancing health and well-being by promoting research and education in biological and biomedical sciences through collaborative advocacy and service. FASEB champions the importance of data management and access, facilitating a culture of data sharing vital for scientific progress and innovation.
Harris, a computer scientist and associate professor; Delcher, an epidemiologist and associate professor; and Anthony, a software developer and data scientist, have leveraged their unique expertise to create a tool that
The winning project, geoPIPE, aims to enhance the accessibility and utility of biomedical data for researchers worldwide.
addresses critical data reuse needs in the biomedical research field. Their work epitomizes the spirit of innovation and interdisciplinary collaboration that the University of Kentucky seeks to promote.
The winning project, geoPIPE, is a groundbreaking opensource tool developed by the team to enrich open data streams with advanced geospatial analyses and natural language processing capabilities. geoPIPE stands at the forefront of the data reuse category, demonstrating the team's commitment to enhancing the accessibility and utility of biomedical data for researchers worldwide.
The DataWorks! Prize recognizes exceptional teams integrating data sharing and reuse to advance human health, reflecting FASEB and NIH’s commitment to fostering a culture of open science. This year's competition highlighted the importance of community engagement and effective practices in data management, with the winning teams set to share their insights and experiences at the DataWorks! Prize symposium.
The University of Kentucky team's achievement not only underscores their individual expertise and dedication but also represents a significant contribution to the broader scientific community. By facilitating more efficient use and reuse of data, geoPIPE promises to accelerate research discoveries using open data and improve health outcomes.
FASEB's DataWorks! initiative is pivotal in advancing human health through data sharing and reuse. As technological advances increase the complexity and volume of data in biological and biomedical research, initiatives like DataWorks! are essential for navigating these challenges and maximizing the impact of scientific research.
Daniel Harris (left) and Chris Delcher (right) collaborated on the geoPIPE project.
University Research Professor Q&A: Thomas Prisinzano
Thomas Prisinzano, Ph.D., professor and chair of the Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences in the UK College of Pharmacy, has been honored as a 2024-25 University Research Professor. Prisinzano serves as director of the Center for Pharmaceutical Research and Innovation (CPRI) and co-director of the Center for Clinical and Translational Science (CCTS) Drug Discovery and Development Core. He joined UK in 2019.
His research studies the influence of chemical structure on biological activity and is directed toward the development of medications to treat substance use disorder and pain. Prisinzano said his lab team is seeking to understand and optimize organic molecules for medicinal purposes. His work has been funded continuously by the National Institutes of Health since 2005.
For his scientific contributions, Prisinzano has received numerous awards including the inaugural Innovator Award from the College on Problems of Drug Dependence in 2018. Prisinzano spoke with UKNow about his latest honor as a University Research Professor in this Q&A.
UKNow: What does it mean to you to be recognized as a University Research Professor?
Prisinzano: It is a tremendous honor to be recognized as a University Research Professor. I am truly humbled to be nominated by my colleagues in the College of Pharmacy. This acknowledgement is also a wonderful recognition of the hard work of my very talented group of graduate students and postdoctoral fellows, past and present.
UKNow: How will the professorships program advance your research?
Prisinzano: The professorship program will allow me and my coworkers to gain additional knowledge and conduct crucial experiments needed to develop molecules as potential medications. This program will also provide an opportunity to expand my research in new directions.
UKNow: How does your research address challenges facing Kentucky?
2024-25 University Research Professor Thomas Prisinzano
Prisinzano: My research is aimed at addressing the drug epidemic in the Commonwealth of Kentucky through identifying potential new medications to treat substance use disorder and pain. One area of emphasis is to identify improved opioid overdose rescue agents to better combat the toxicity seen with fentanyl and related agents. Ultimately, our goal is to increase the rescue of patients suffering from an opioid overdose.
Another area of emphasis is to identify opioid analgesics — or painkillers — with enhanced safety compared to fentanyl and morphine to potentially replace fentanyl with a drug that is safer. I hope that my research can facilitate the development of novel medications needed to combat a major health problem in the Commonwealth of Kentucky.
About the University Research Professors
Each year, the University of Kentucky Board of Trustees approves a cohort of faculty as University Research Professors. The distinction recognizes excellence in work that addresses scientific, social, cultural and economic challenges in Kentucky and the world.
College leadership developed criteria for excellence within their area of expertise and then nominated faculty who excelled at these criteria. Each University Research Professor receives a one-year award of $10,000 and participates in other events planned around the program.
The College of Pharmacy faculty exemplify excellence in teaching, research, and service, earning accolades both nationally and internationally. We are proud to recognize their awards and accomplishments.
Trish Freeman, left, and Brooke Hudspeth.
Romanelli Receives Robert K. Chalmers Distinguished Pharmacy Educator Award
Frank Romanelli, Pharm.D., MPH, FAPhA, FCCP, BCPS, was selected as the 2024 recipient of the Robert K. Chalmers Distinguished Pharmacy Educator Award, a prestigious honor bestowed by the American Association of Colleges of Pharmacy (AACP). This award recognizes Romanelli's exceptional contributions and steadfast dedication to the field of pharmacy education.
As the Paul F. Parker endowed professor and chief academic officer at the College of Pharmacy, Romanelli has been a leading figure in pharmacy education for over 25 years. His commitment to teaching, research, professional service, and outreach, combined with his decorated career and significant impact on both students and colleagues, encapsulates the spirit of Robert K. Chalmers, the award's namesake and a venerable figure in pharmacy education.
"I am profoundly honored to receive the Robert K. Chalmers Distinguished Pharmacy Educator Award,” stated
Romanelli. “This recognition is not only a testament to my personal journey in pharmacy education but also reflects the collective effort and support of my colleagues and our students at the University of Kentucky College of Pharmacy. I am committed to continuing our shared mission to advance pharmacy education and inspire the next generation of pharmacy professionals."
The Robert K. Chalmers Distinguished Pharmacy Educator Award recognizes individual excellence and substantial contributions to the advancement of pharmacy education. Romanelli's accolades include multiple Professor of the Year awards at UKCOP and the honor of sharing the 2023 Rufus A. Lyman Award with colleague and nominator Jeff Cain, Ed.D., for their outstanding paper published in the American Journal of Pharmaceutical Education.
With a prolific scholarly record boasting over 130 peerreviewed publications, including 60 on educational topics, Romanelli has been instrumental in pioneering
innovative educational initiatives. His expertise in viral infectious diseases, including COVID-19 and vaccines, has significantly influenced pharmacy education, both locally and globally.
"Dr. Romanelli is a highly esteemed educator whose passion and dedication to teaching have inspired countless individuals,” said Cain. “His innovative approach and significant contributions through research, scholarship, and professional service have established a standard of excellence in pharmacy education.”
"Frank’s receipt of the Chalmers Distinguished Pharmacy Educator Award is a moment of great pride for our College,” said Dean R. Kip Guy, Ph.D. “His innovative spirit and commitment to excellence have not only shaped the future of pharmacy education but have also significantly contributed to our College's reputation as a leader in the field. His dedication to mentoring the next generation of
pharmacists is a testament to his passion for teaching and his belief in the transformative power of education. We are fortunate to have such an exemplary figure among us, and this award serves as a fitting recognition of his profound impact on students, colleagues, and the broader healthcare community."
Romanelli's achievements underscore the critical role of educators in shaping future healthcare professionals and adapting to the sector's changing demands. His legacy and body of work, an inspiration within the pharmacy community, highlight the essential interplay of education, innovation, and leadership in promoting global health and wellness.
Romanelli is the first recipient with ties to the University of Kentucky to receive the award. He accepted the award during the AACP annual meeting on pharmacy education held July 2024 in Boston, MA.
Cain, Romanelli Receive AACP Rufus A. Lyman Award
The American Association of Colleges of Pharmacy announced the recipients of its top awards in 2023, which recognize six individuals, one institution and one scholarly paper, for their outstanding contributions made to pharmacy education, research, patient outcomes, community service and academic publishing.
“Deficiencies of Traditional Grading Systems and Recommendations for the Future” by Jeff Cain. Ed.D., of the University of Kentucky; Melissa S. Medina, Ed.D., of the University of Oklahoma; Frank Romanelli, Pharm.D., of the University of Kentucky; and, Adam M. Persky, Ph.D., of the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill received the Rufus A. Lyman Award, which recognizes the best paper published in the American Journal of Pharmaceutical Education during the previous year.
The recipients of AACP’s awards are at the forefront of healthcare professions education and through their work are advancing pharmacy innovation, enhancing patient care and adding value to the healthcare system.
Cain, left, and Romanelli, were part of the research team awarded the 2023 Rufus A. Lyman Award by the American Association of Colleges of Pharmacy.
“The 2023 recipients of AACP’s top awards represent the best of teaching, research, service and scholarly publishing in academic pharmacy,” said AACP Executive Vice President and CEO Lee Vermeulen, B.S.Pharm., M.S., FCCP, FFIP.
UK scientists and scholars among top 2% of world’s most-cited researchers
The University of Kentucky is well-represented on a list of the most-cited researchers in the world. In a database compiled by Stanford University in a partnership with Elsevier, 140 current UK scientists and scholars appear among the top 2% of the most-cited researchers across 22 disciplines, based on citations received during the calendar year 2022. Eight of those researchers are in the College of Pharmacy.
Citations are one measure of the impact of academic research. For researchers, publishing work in a peerreviewed, scholarly journal is a key step in sharing research findings and new discoveries.
“Being cited is one sign that your work matters to the research community,” said Lisa Cassis, PhD, UK vice president for research. “We acknowledge that citation metrics can have issues including gender bias and
underrepresentation of community-focused and nonSTEM research — the same issues with which the research community at-large is grappling. The University of Kentucky is dedicated to an inclusive culture of research across all spectrums of inquiry, and we value the contributions of all faculty, staff and student researchers. UK’s worldrecognized research is impacting the community and producing innovations that make Kentucky and the world healthier, wealthier and wiser. We congratulate these outstanding individuals for this citation recognition.”
The database, updated October 2023 and available through the Elsevier Data Repository, was compiled by Stanford faculty member John P.A. Ioannidis. Database inclusion means the individual met a variety of metrics that place them among the top 2% of researchers based on citations for 2022.
Bjoern Bauer
Jeff Cain
Joe Chappell
Sylvie Garneau-Tsodikova
R. Kip Guy
Tom Prisinzano
Jon Thorson
Chang-Guo Zhan
College of Pharmacy Celebrates Faculty Promotions
The University of Kentucky College of Pharmacy announced the promotion of four exceptional junior faculty members: Eric Johnson, PharmD; Hannah Johnson, PharmD; Vincent Venditto, Ph.D.; and Craig Beavers, PharmD. These promotions recognize the unwavering dedication, expertise, and outstanding contributions by these faculty members to their respective fields.
Eric Johnson has been promoted to the position of associate professor in the Department of Pharmacy Practice & Science. His extensive background in surgical infection prevention, coagulation and hemostasis, and multimodal analgesia has been pivotal in improving patient care in the perioperative area and vascular surgery. Johnson is actively involved in pharmacy student experiential rotations, as well as mentoring pharmacy residents, nurturing and shaping the future generation of pharmacy professionals.
Hannah Johnson has been promoted to associate professor in the Department of Pharmacy Practice & Science. Her wealth of experience in health disparities, psychiatry, substance use disorders, and wellness and mental health makes her an invaluable asset. Johnson plays a crucial role in coordinating the Integrated Drugs and Disease 4 – Psychiatry course for PY3 students. Additionally, she actively provides pharmaceutical care to individuals with mental health and substance use disorders at the UK HealthCare Supportive Mental Health and Addiction Recovery Treatment program (SMART Clinic).
Vincent Venditto’s invaluable contributions to the field of pharmaceutical sciences have resulted in his tenure and promotion to associate professor in the Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences. With a strong foundation in organic synthesis and vaccine development, Venditto’s research is dedicated to exploring novel methods to modulate the immune system and designing innovative immunotherapies. His lab attracts students and fellows from diverse backgrounds, fostering a collaborative environment that pushes the boundaries of drug delivery and experimental therapeutics. Venditto played a crucial role in the College’s educational campaign for COVID-19 vaccine rollouts. He was one of the initial Project PI’s on the $11.2M CPRI COBRE, and received a $1.9M grant from the NIH to study the role of inflammatory markers in the progression of cardiovascular disease.
Craig Beavers’ exceptional dedication and expertise have earned him the promotion to associate professor in the Department of Pharmacy Practice & Science. With his profound knowledge of cardiovascular pharmacotherapy and patient care, Beavers has played a vital role in improving heart attack care, advancing anticoagulation practices, and addressing health disparities. His extensive experience as the vice president of operations for Baptist Health Paducah and as the cardiovascular clinical pharmacy coordinator at UK Healthcare has further solidified his impact on patient outcomes. Beavers also holds esteemed leadership roles and contributes to advancing cardiovascular care within professional organizations such as the American Heart Association and the American College of Cardiology.
RESEARCH
Research drives innovation and improves health outcomes across Kentucky and beyond. From pioneering drug development to improving patient care strategies, our research addresses critical health challenges with global impact.
Trish Freeman, left, and Brooke Hudspeth.
Advancing mental health solutions: Neuroscience research offers hope
Assistant Professor of Pharmaceutical Sciences Anel
Jaramillo, Ph.D., is leading cutting-edge research in neuroscience and addiction at the University of Kentucky College of Pharmacy (UKCOP), focusing on improving the lives of individuals experiencing substance use disorders. Her pioneering work, particularly in understanding the neurobiological mechanisms of addiction and anxiety, has the potential to revolutionize treatment options for millions.
Recently recognized in The Atlas of Inspiring Hispanic/ Latinx Scientists, Jaramillo is among a select group of faculty nationwide whose work highlights significant scientific contributions by Hispanic and Latino scientists. As the only representative from the University of Kentucky included in this collection, her research underscores the importance of understanding addiction and emotional dysregulation in developing new treatment strategies.
A Personal Journey
Jaramillo’s journey to becoming a neuroscientist is deeply personal. As the daughter of Mexican immigrants raised in Dallas, Texas, she grew up in a community affected by addiction, which sparked her early curiosity about why people struggle with substances. Over time, this question guided her educational and career path, fueling her determination to uncover the neurobiological roots of addiction and anxiety.
“I didn’t initially set out to become a neuroscientist,” Jaramillo explains. “But my curiosity about addiction and the desire to help people affected by it propelled me into this field. It’s incredibly fulfilling to work on research that has the potential to make a real difference in people’s lives.”
Breakthrough Research in Combating Addiction
At the UK College of Pharmacy, Jaramillo leads a research team focused on understanding anxiety-related behaviors during alcohol abstinence—a critical factor that often triggers relapse in individuals recovering from substance use disorders. Central to her work is PACAP (Pituitary
Adenylate Cyclase-Activating Polypeptide), a neuropeptide critical to the body’s stress and anxiety responses.
Jaramillo’s studies suggest that elevated levels of PACAP in the brain are linked to heightened anxiety during alcohol withdrawal, particularly in females, who are more susceptible to the emotional dysregulation that can drive relapse. By exploring how inhibiting PACAP can reduce withdrawal-induced anxiety, her team aims to offer alternative treatments to traditional therapies like SSRIs, which are often less effective in severe cases of anxiety.
“This peptide could be a game-changer in how we approach both addiction and mood disorders,” Jaramillo notes. “Our goal is to develop targeted therapies that provide relief from the anxiety experienced during abstinence, which would not only reduce relapse rates but improve overall mental health outcomes.”
While still in the preclinical phase, her research holds great promise for the future of addiction treatment. Jaramillo is optimistic that her findings could lead to new, more effective pharmacological therapies that provide personalized solutions for individuals with substance use and anxiety disorders.
Community Engagement and Education
Beyond her groundbreaking research, Jaramillo is committed to raising awareness about addiction and mental health in the broader community. Having seen firsthand the stigma surrounding substance use disorders, she believes that education and open conversations are crucial to dismantling misconceptions and encouraging more people to seek help.
“I grew up seeing the real effects of addiction—not just on individuals, but on families and entire communities,” Jaramillo shares. “It’s important to me to share what I’ve learned and help dispel myths about addiction and mental health, especially in underserved communities.”
Jaramillo is passionate about partnering with local schools and organizations to increase awareness of brain science, addiction, and the importance of mental health care. Through these initiatives, she aims to inspire the next generation of scientists and advocate for the importance of mental health education in schools.
Looking Ahead to New Treatments
Jaramillo envisions a future where her research leads to clinical trials for new drug therapies targeting anxiety and stress disorders in individuals with substance use disorders, particularly women. Her work aims to revolutionize treatment options by providing more effective, personalized care for those with severe anxiety or mood disorders.
“I want my research to make a real difference in people’s lives,” Jaramillo says. “But I also want to inspire my students to dream big, knowing that their work has the potential to create meaningful change.”
Jaramillo’s contributions not only advance addiction treatment but also serve as a model of determination and curiosity for future scientists. Through her groundbreaking work, she is shaping the future of neuroscience and offering hope to millions affected by addiction and mental health challenges.
Anel Jaramillo, Ph.D., center, and her team are engaged in cutting-edge research around neuroscience and addiction.
New consortium to advance research on infectious disease prevention, treatment
A new partnership between researchers at the University of Kentucky will combat the threat of infectious diseases through research directed at prevention and treatment.
The Consortium for Understanding and Reducing Infectious Diseases in Kentucky (CURE-KY) will foster multidisciplinary collaborations to address the burden of infectious diseases in the Commonwealth and beyond.
“I am thrilled by the boundless possibilities our collaborative efforts promise at the University of Kentucky. With a steadfast commitment to advancing knowledge and fostering transdisciplinary alliances, we aim to propel infectious disease research to new heights, creating a healthier Kentucky and nurturing future scientific leaders,” said Ilhem Messaoudi, PhD, CURE-KY founder and chair of the Department of Microbiology, Immunology, and Molecular Genetics in the College of Medicine.
CURE-KY grew out of the Emerging Themes for Research Program, which is part of the Research Leadership Academy (RLA) supported by the Office of the Vice President for Research and was built on the heels of UK’s COVID-19 Unified Research Experts (CURE) Alliance that was quickly assembled to support a full range of COVIDrelated research.
“A key facet of the Research Leadership Academy is to empower our researchers to tackle research questions that are critical to Kentucky and do so with a collaborative and innovative approach,” said Lisa Cassis, UK’s vice president for research. “CURE-KY is an exemplary model of this strategy. I am excited to see the range of this team’s scientific expertise and their dedication to advancing the health of Kentucky through vital research.”
CURE-KY brings together a diverse group of experts from the College of Medicine, College of Public Health, College of Pharmacy, Martin-Gatton College of Agriculture, Food and Environment and Markey Cancer Center.
CURE-KY will focus on research in five areas: microbial pathogenesis; vaccines, therapeutics and antimicrobial resistance; public health and community engagement; animal health; and engineering and systems.
The consortium will also work to address vaccine hesitancy and misinformation to foster trust between Kentuckians and the scientific community.
“CURE-KY leverages the expertise of some of the best and brightest physicians and scientists specializing in infectious disease treatment and prevention. With the
From left to right: Ilhem Messaoudi, Ph.D., David Burgess, PharmD, FCCP, FIDP, Vincent Venditto, Ph.D. and, Steven Van Lanen, Ph.D., members of the multidisciplinary CURE-KY group.
CURE-KY brings together a diverse group of experts from the College of Medicine, College of Public Health, College of Pharmacy, Martin-Gatton College of Agriculture, Food and Environment and Markey Cancer Center.
power of this unified team, the University of Kentucky will equip the Commonwealth with the information, resources and health care solutions necessary to combat dangerous diseases,” said Charles “Chipper” Griffith III, MD, dean of the College of Medicine.
“The College of Public Health is dedicated to bettering public health, which is tightly integrated with the mission of CURE-KY. From studying prevention, control and understanding transmission dynamics to assessing risk, promoting health equity and engaging communities in disease control efforts, this work is critical toward our goal of creating a healthier Kentucky,” said Heather Bush, PhD, dean of the College of Public Health.
"We are proud to be a part of the CURE-KY consortium, which represents a pivotal step forward in our ongoing commitment to improve public health in Kentucky,” said R. Kip Guy, PhD, dean of the College of Pharmacy. “The collective expertise on our campus in drug discovery, vaccine development and infectious disease research is essential for addressing the complex challenges presented in Kentucky and beyond.”
$8.3M IN NEW AWARDS
“From Dr. Li’s groundbreaking research on infectious diseases in animals to the breadth of research in plant sciences, engineering and biotechnology, our college is a powerhouse of expertise that propels transdisciplinary projects like CURE-KY, fostering innovation and collaboration at every turn," said Nancy Cox, vice president for land-grant engagement and dean of the UK MartinGatton College of Agriculture, Food and Environment.
“Kentucky is home to the highest cancer rates in the country, including several cancers caused by infectious diseases such as HPV and hepatitis C. Cancer prevention is a key component of Markey’s mission to significantly reduce Kentucky’s cancer burden. By better understanding and combating diseases that can lead to cancer, CURE-KY will contribute to this mission and make progress toward our ultimate goal of conquering cancer in the Commonwealth,” said B. Mark Evers, MD, director of the Markey Cancer Center.
“We have an excellent team of scientists here at UK and on our leadership team. Together we can tackle infectious diseases from an array of perspectives to make a difference in the health of our community,” said Messaoudi.
PHARMACY SCHOOL IN FUNDING PER PI (AACP 2022)
$4.9M IN ANNUAL GRANTS
UK Pharmacy Dean Kip Guy continuing work with promising anti-malarial drug
It is a project that Kip Guy, dean of the University of Kentucky’s College of Pharmacy, has been working on for nearly two decades now. The work centers around something most people have heard of but even though it is widely known, it is not something that gets a lot of attention in the United States.
Malaria is a life-threatening disease spread between humans by some types of mosquitoes. It is mostly found in tropical countries. It is preventable and curable. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), there were an estimated 249 million cases of malaria and 608,000 malaria deaths across 85 different countries. The African region held 94% of these malaria cases and 95% of the deaths. Children under the age of five accounted for about 80% of the malaria-related deaths in Africa in 2022.
That statistic points directly to the first reason malaria has been a focus for Dean Guy all these years. “The mortality is almost all small children. And the way adults wind up not dying from malaria is by surviving being repeatedly infected. So, most kids in Africa, by the time they are five, they have had 10 to 15 cases and then they have a durable immunity,” explained Guy.
Additionally, there’s a great interest for him from a biological and pharmacological standpoint. “I split my research time between cancer and parasitic diseases. Malaria is a unicellular eukaryotic organism that hides in one of your tissues. So, at a lot of levels, it is actually like a cancer. It immune evades, it is trophic for a particular tissue, it goes through the same kind of cell cycle,” said Guy. “There are even direct overlaps with some of the targets we use to treat malaria are the same ones we use in oncology.”
Specifically, the drug Guy and his collaborators have been developing works in a way similar to cancer immunotherapy. “It essentially causes the infected red blood cell to become visible to the host immune system. Then your body clears out those red blood cells, which is largely immunologically driven.”
The third thing drawing him to this area of work is that it is almost exclusively a disease of access prevention due to economic issues. “The further I got into my career, the more I became motivated by access and patient inability to access treatments,” said Guy. “A lot of the people in Africa who need care, literally cannot get it.”
Guy started this particular research during his tenure as a professor at the University of California San Francisco.
“At that point, it was technology-oriented,” he said. “We partnered with Joe DeRisi, who now runs the Chan Zuckerberg Institute, and developed a way to search for compounds that acted on the parasite in a host cell without worrying about mechanisms.”
Several years later, Guy was recruited to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital to serve as the chair of the St. Jude Department of Chemical Biology and Therapeutics. He continued to develop this methodology and was able to adapt a robotic system that let his team test millions of potential compounds.
The years of collaborative work eventually led to a team of researchers organized by Guy, including those at the University of Kentucky, St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital in Tennessee, Eisai in both the United States and Japan, Medicines for Malaria Venture (MMV) in Switzerland and QIMR in Australia, discovering a new, fast-acting antimalarial compound that has shown promise in fighting malaria. The compound, SJ733, became one of the first in a new class of anti-malarial compounds to reach clinical trials.
Guy is thrilled that their work with this compound will likely continue thanks in large part to a recently announced investment by the Global Health Innovative Technology Fund of approximately $5.4 million in the anti-malarial drug project between Eisai Co., Ltd. and the University of Kentucky. Work with this fund is unique as every project requires partnering with a Japanese pharma company. “Japan has a lot of great scientists who are really innovative
and really good at delivering. They’ve been so insular in the past, that GHIT being willing to find these collaborative projects has started roughly 20 collaborations that wouldn’t have otherwise ever existed,” said Guy.
The Phase 2b trial will follow their Phase 2a trial which took place in Peru and was able to close early due to researchers meeting all the needed criteria about twothirds of the way through.
Guy calls the Phase 2 studies of the drug its first real-world test. “You can do things in controlled trials in first-world settings, but until you really get out into the field you do not really know what is or isn’t going to work,” said Guy.
Phase 1 was split into two studies – a total of 38 healthy volunteers were recruited as part of the Phase 1a study in Memphis, led by Aditya Gaur of St. Jude, and Phase 1b study in Brisbane, Australia, led by James McCarthy at QIMR.
Twenty-three of the volunteers in Memphis received increasing doses of SJ733. The testing helps researchers to understand the dosing, safety profile and metabolism, including absorption.
Based on those results, 15 Australian volunteers underwent modified testing. These volunteers received SJ733 after being infected with malaria in the clinic. This allowed researchers to understand the anti-malarial effectiveness of the new drug by looking at the level of parasites in their blood and treating accordingly. The participants also received a curative dose of conventional anti-malarial combination therapy.
For the anticipated Phase 2b study, Guy’s team will be going to the same location in Peru as the Phase 2a study
took place. There, the team of researchers works with Clinica Selva Amazonica, under the leadership of Alejandro Llanos-Cuentas. Patients in the clinic often present with both types of major malaria — something that helps to test the drug against both strains.
“We have good working relationships there and a relationship with the Ministry of Health, so we are all set up and begin the trial to patients once we get all the funding needed and regulatory submissions finalized,” said Guy.
The Phase 2b study is specifically targeting relapsing Malaria. “If you do not cure it when you get the first infection, it has a form that goes to your liver and then it can come back again and again and again,” said Guy.
Guy describes Malaria as an orphan disease in the United States with about 1,500 cases a year, and most are acquired while abroad. “Travelers bring it back. Most years we will get under 100 direct transmissions usually between family members of a traveler.”
The ultimate goal with this new investment is to shorten the treatment period by using SJ733 in combination with the existing drug tafenoquine.
The fact this drug is targeting and intended for underserved populations, Guy says there is a bit of a challenge in getting funding since there is not much money to be made for these drugs. “There is not just a model to follow for this so to speak. All the drugs that have gone forward have been from big companies or governmental entities. We are sort of opening new ground trying to do this,” said Guy.
Guy and others from UK recently traveled to Kenya to prepare for the upcoming clinical trial. The team at Kenya Medical Research Institute explained the work they are doing towards genetic sequencing of malaria parasites found in patient samples.
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Alumnus Mark Huffmyer passes away, leaves legacy of global learning
The University of Kentucky College of Pharmacy (UKCOP) mourns the loss of esteemed alumnus, pharmacist, colleague, and community leader Mark Huffmyer, PharmD, who passed away on July 2, 2024, at the age of 34.
Huffmyer earned his Doctor of Pharmacy degree from UKCOP in 2014 and completed a PGY1 community-based pharmacy residency with the American Pharmacy Services Corporation (APSC). His passion for patient care and education led him to impactful roles at the Gill Heart and Vascular Anticoagulation Clinic and, later, as a neurology, psychiatry, and substance-use disorder service line coordinator at UK Specialty Pharmacy and Infusion Services. His clinical interests encompassed multiple sclerosis, geriatrics, and de-prescribing.
on an international brigade with Shoulder to Shoulder Global, providing essential medical care and health education to the local community. More recently, Huffmyer, alongside his father, visited UKCOP’s sister college, Kitasato University in Tokyo, Japan, where he strengthened the relationship between the two institutions.
In his memory, UKCOP is proud to announce the establishment of the Dr. Mark Huffmyer Memorial Travel Award fund. Created by Kristina Karrick, PharmD, and Becky Sebastian, PharmD, from the class of 2014, with additional backing from his mentor, Debbie Duckworth, PharmD, the fund will support students in pursuing the global learning opportunities Huffmyer deeply cherished.
As a board-certified ambulatory care pharmacist and board-certified geriatric pharmacist, Huffmyer made substantial contributions to the field of neurology, particularly in aging and dementia care. Colleagues and students will remember him for his leadership, compassion, and unwavering commitment to advancing the pharmacy profession.
Beyond his clinical practice, Huffmyer was an outstanding educator and preceptor. He was honored as the UKCOP 2021 Preceptor of the Year, a testament to his impactful mentorship and dedication to nurturing future pharmacists through hands-on learning experiences.
As a pharmacy student, Huffmyer participated in an Advanced Pharmacy Practice Experience (APPE) rotation in Thailand. This educational adventure enriched his professional journey and ignited his passion for global learning. In 2016, he traveled to Santo Domingo, Ecuador,
Award preference will be given to students interested in an exchange program with Kitasato University and, secondarily, to students interested in a Shoulder to Shoulder Global brigade trip or an international rotation during their fourth year of pharmacy school.
Huffmyer's contributions to pharmacy, his unwavering commitment to patient care and education, and his passion for global learning will be deeply missed. His legacy will live on through the countless lives he touched and the future pharmacists who will benefit from this award in his honor.
To contribute to the scholarship fund, scan the QR code or contact UKCOP Director of Philanthropy Jessica Rukavina at jessica.rukavina@uky.edu.
In Memoriam
The University of Kentucky College of Pharmacy would like to recognize all of our alumni who have passed away in 2023 and 2024. Thank you for your service to the profession and your lasting legacies.
Have fun with our special UKCOP #FlatWildcat. We can’t wait to see where you take him on adventures—include him in your selfies, group photos, and alumni gatherings. Share your pictures with us by using #FlatWildcat.
READY TO UPDATE YOUR INFO? Send your first and last name, degree year, and updated contact information to copalumni@uky.edu.
