Congrats PharmCATS Class of 2025!
The University of Arizona R. Ken Coit College of Pharmacy honored its spring 2025 graduating class at Centennial Hall on May 16.
The Coit College of Pharmacy celebrated the fourth graduating class of its Bachelor of Science in Pharmaceutical Sciences by conferring 83 bachelor degrees. The four-year degree was launched in fall 2018 and offers a curriculum aimed at preparing graduates for employment in a variety of biomedical research settings, as well as preparing them for post-baccalaureate education in graduate or health-professional studies.
Aubriann De La Riva gave the undergraduate response and will pursue her doctor of pharmacy degree with the Coit College of Pharmacy in fall 2025.
"This degree we have received today, is more than just a piece of paper, it is proof that we can overcome our adversities and adapt and thrive to success. No matter where your path in life is leading you next, remember to embrace the journey ahead with courage and determination," she said.
The graduate programs celebrated and hooded five Master of Science in Pharmaceutical Sciences, one Master of Science in Pharmacology and Toxicology, and seven Master of Science in Health & Pharmaceutical Outcomes graduates, two Doctor of Philosophy in Pharmaceutical Sciences graduates and five Doctor of Philosophy in Pharmacology and Toxicology graduates.
Jyothsna Kukatlapalli, a Master of Science in Pharmaceutical Sciences, gave the master's student response during the ceremony. "Our time at R Ken Coit College of Pharmacy taught us more than Science, resilience, critical thinking and the power of community. We came in as individuals with curiosity – now we leave as scientists with purpose."
The College conferred doctor of pharmacy degrees to 124 graduates. Some of the graduates choose to accept positions in community or health-system settings. Others continue their education by pursuing a graduate degree. Among the Class of 2025, 54 students have applied and successfully matched for postgraduate pharmacy residency training.
Olivia Robida and Danielle Bauer were selected to give the PharmD Cohort class response during the ceremony. "On top of our rigorous studies, we were faced with unpredictable challenges from the pandemic, but we persevered with extraordinary fortitude and adaptability. Though we are no longer called students, we step into our new careers as lifelong learners with so many amazing opportunities and experiences ahead," Robida said.
Dean Rick Schnellmann, PhD, encouraged graduates to expect change and to seek out new opportunities.
"Today, we celebrate your perseverance, your tenacity, and your resilience. To you, our graduating students, I offer some parting words to help guide you on your new journey. Too often people are afraid of change because it’s uncomfortable or intimidating, and they resist it. However, without change, nothing happens. Recognize change as an opportunity. When the unexpected happens, as it always does, view it as a chance for growth and fulfillment," Schnellmann said.