(August 23, 2019)
The College of Pharmacy welcomed the PharmD Class of 2023 this week to campus. Students from the Phoenix cohort traveled to Tucson one day, and for the first time, Tucson students traveled to Phoenix for one day as part of onboarding. The four-day orientation was packed with information, tours, ice breakers and networking. A faculty mentor luncheon was held in Tucson where the students met and were welcomed into the program by our exceptional faculty. An alumni luncheon was hosted in Phoenix, and we were fortunate to have a broad range of PharmCats represented, including:
Theresa Taylor, '92, Walgreens Chris Hogan, '82, Blue Cross Blue Shield of Arizona and National Advisory Board member Michelle Wilhardt, '98, Department of Veterans Affairs Matt Roberts, '08, CVS Health Cameron Haun, '11, SinfoniaRx MMC Patrick Hryshko, '14, SinfoniaRx Kaitlyn Skulkan, '16, Fry's Newsha Sarmadnia, '13, Safeway Pharmacy |
Sue Moravec, '90, HonorHealth Kendra Karagozian, '07, OptumRx Kristin Calabro, '10, SinfoniaRx MMC Caitlin Cameron, '07, UA College of Pharmacy - Phoenix Tyler Gallo, '16, UA College of Pharmacy - Phoenix Sandi Thoi, '10, UA College of Pharmacy - Phoenix Laura Zagnoni, '89, Bristol-Myers Squibb Tom Trinidad, '92 |
"The newest PharmCats were energized and inspired by the dean, faculty, alumni, and staff who worked together to welcome them into the PharmCat Family," said Jeannie Lee, PharmD, Assistant Dean, Student Services. "They erupted in loud applause at the end of the orientation, and are eager to embark on their coursework and practice in pharmacy."
Nancy Alvarez, PharmD, Associate Dean of Academic and Professional Affairs in Phoenix, also agreed. This is her first year at the College in her new role to welcome a new PharmD cohort.
“In a closure circle exercise designed for student expression and reflection, students remarked about how they appreciated the planning and effort that went into the week. They were amazed by how four short days resulted in an authentic connection amongst them which lessened their anxiety and inspired a strong start to their pharmacy education.”