Alumni Association gives awards to pharmacy faculty

Tucson—The University of Arizona Alumni Association honored five current or former UA College of Pharmacy faculty members during Homecoming celebrations Oct. 24.
Alumnus Kevin Boesen, PharmD, and Professor Michael Mayersohn, PhD, each received Extraordinary Faculty Awards.

Boesen is a clinical assistant professor in the Department of Pharmacy Practice and Science and the director of experiential education and the Medication Management Center. He was recognized for his entrepreneurship and extraordinary mentorship of students. Boesen received his doctor of pharmacy degree from UA in 1996.

Mayersohn is a professor in pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics. A faculty member at the college since 1976, he was recognized because he “thoroughly engages his students and has a deep concern for the success of each individual.” Lauded for his clear and concise teaching style, he was called a model for all teachers and pharmacists.

Alumnus Robert Dorr, PhD, received the Distinguished Professional Achievement Award for his work in treating pancreatic cancer. Dorr is the CEO of AmpliMed Corporation, a clinical-stage cancer pharmaceutical company, and the director of cancer research pharmacy practice at the Arizona Cancer Center. He received his PhD from the University of Arizona and was the first clinical pharmacist in oncology at the College of Pharmacy. He earned a bachelor of science in pharmacy from UA in 1974.

Alumnus David Lee received the Bear Down Award for his contributions as a pharmacist, teacher and mentor. Lee teaches pharmaceutical calculations at the College of Pharmacy, practices at University Medical Center and Kindred Hospital, is faculty advisor to the Phi Delta Chi fraternity, and has given time to the MedCamp, MedStart and PharmCamp academic outreach programs. Lee graduated from UA with a bachelor of science in pharmacy in 1977.

Tucsonan Albert Picchioni, PhD, was named a UA Honorary Alumnus by the Alumni Association. The professor emeritus started the volunteer effort in poison prevention and toxicology service by College of Pharmacy faculty that later became the Arizona Poison and Drug Information Center. During his 35-year tenure at the college, he mentored hundreds of students and served as the acting dean from 1975 to 1977.

Released Oct. 30, 2008