FALL 2014
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A MAGAZINE FOR ALUMNI & FRIENDS OF THE RUDOLPH H. RAABE COLLEGE OF PHARMACY
the
Meet the New Dean The politics of pharmacy The cutting edge of medicine and pharmacy Treating anaphylactic shock
Content Message from the Dean
Meet the new dean
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The politics of pharmacy
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cutting edge medicine and
pharmacy
p. 4-13
Meet the new dean The politics of pharmacy On the cutting edge of medicine and pharmacy New potential treatment for anaphylactic shock
On the of
Features
Celebrating the 130th Commencement
p. 14
Pharmacy News and Activities
p. 17
Advisory Board
p. 23
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New potential treatment
Anaphylactic Shock
Fall 2014
The Ampul is a publication of The Rudolph H. Raabe College of Pharmacy Editors: Josh Alkire Amy (Rettig) Prigge, BSBA ’94 Laurie Wurth Pressel Design: Jeni Bible Photography: Ken Colwell Contributors: Scott Wills, BSBA ’87
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The Ampul is published by Ohio Northern University, 525 S. Main St. Ada, OH 45810, 419-772-2000. The R.H. Raabe College of Pharmacy at Ohio Northern University has long been recognized as one of the premier colleges of pharmacy in the nation, continually meeting the high standards of pharmaceutical education. Throughout its prominent history, the college has graduated pharmacists who now have successful pharmacy practices and who are active in local, state and national health-related organizations. More than one-fourth of all pharmacists in Ohio are Ohio Northern alumni. www.onu.edu/pharmacy
AMP L the
A MAGAZINE FOR ALUMNI & FRIENDS OF THE RUDOLPH H. RAABE COLLEGE OF PHARMACY
THE AMPUL
Fall 2014
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Meet the New Dean The politics of pharmacy The cutting edge of medicine and pharmacy Treating anaphylactic shock
On The Cover: Dr. Steven J. Martin Photo: Ken Colwell
From the Dean
Alumni and friends, I offer you warm greetings from Ada as I begin my work as the 15th dean of the Raabe College of Pharmacy. The welcome and outreach I’ve received from the ONU family have been truly amazing, and I know I couldn’t have a better job anywhere than being your dean. Ohio Northern University has a wonderful history of student-centeredness and development of each individual for “success in their careers, service to their communities, the nation and the world, and a lifetime of personal growth inspired by the higher values of truth, beauty and goodness.” Our College of Pharmacy alumni exemplify that every day in the work they do to “change the world,” one patient at a time. I am blessed to be a part of this rich tradition and longstanding success. I invite you to help me learn more about the history of our college by sharing with me the stories from your days on campus. I would enjoying hearing from alumni from the 1940s to 2014. For those of you, like me, with multiple generations of pharmacists in your family, please share stories from each of the generations. Please send me an email or drop me a note. I look forward to hearing from each of you! My best,
Steven J. Martin, PharmD, BCPS, FCCP, FCCM
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Feature
Meet the new dean
Steven J. Martin – a seasoned leader with outstanding academic credentials, a passion for the profession and an enthusiasm for relationship building – became the 15th dean of the Raabe College of Pharmacy this summer. He is prepared to lead the college during what he describes as “a defining moment for the pharmacy profession.” He shares more about his background, views on the profession and vision for the college below:
You are a third-generation pharmacist. Can you share your family’s history with this profession and how that influenced you? My grandfather and his brother attended Ferris Institute (now Ferris State University) in the early 1900s. At that time, students trained for approximately six months and then apprenticed with a pharmacist for a couple of years. My grandfather owned a community pharmacy, the Fowler Drug Company, in Fowler, Mich. My dad graduated from Ferris Institute in 1943 and then shipped off with the Army to the South Pacific during World War II. After the war, he worked as a pharmacist for a number of years before opening his own drug store in 1965 in Lansing, Mich. Although I was only 5 years old at the time, I still remember the grand opening. My mom and I delivered gallons of ice cream throughout the neighborhood as a way to get to know the community and welcome people to the store. I have so many fond memories of working at my dad’s pharmacy, from pushing the broom, to working as a clerk, to staffing as a pharmacist.
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In college, I tried business classes for a year before it dawned on me that I wanted to become a pharmacist like my dad. I met my wife, Karen, in the PharmD program at Ferris, and this helped solidify the profession in our family. I am hopeful that one of my four children will consider pharmacy as a career, but with two out of college, I only have two left to possibly carry the flag.
Ultimately, why did you want to become a pharmacist? Pharmacy is in my blood and bones. I enjoy the opportunity to help people in so many ways and to use the knowledge of physiology, pathophysiology, pharmacology, therapeutic reasoning and good oldfashioned problem-solving skills in my practice. Although I am not actively involved in patient care, I live vicariously through the students and residents with whom I work every day. I can’t imagine a better profession than that of a pharmacist.
What do you enjoy the most about working with the next generation of pharmacy professionals? I am continually amazed at how aware our students are of the world around them, the opportunities they have to pursue, and their own ability to direct their future. I don’t recall being as in touch with the environment and profession when I was their age. I feel humbled to work with these outstanding young people who teach me every day about the importance of meaningful relationships and seeing the world from the perspective of others.
What is the most challenging aspect of pharmacy education? I would be naĂŻve if I said anything other than the financial challenges that face us. The cost of a college education is very high, and most of our students graduate with six figures of debt. Our toughest task is providing high-quality, high-touch, outcome-driven pharmacist training in an efficient and cost-effective manner. This issue gets me out of bed each morning and challenges me each day in the office.
What do you believe are the biggest opportunities awaiting today’s pharmacy students? Wow, perhaps saving the country? The U.S. is facing the greatest challenge in health care in my lifetime. The focus that the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act has placed on the costs of health care and the way we pay for it has brought amazing opportunities to our profession. WE are the solution to so many of the problems that the country faces in health care. WE identify and solve drug-
related problems that plague the delivery of quality outcomes for so many diseases. WE are the most accessible health care professionals. WE are able to deliver wellness and preventative care and work in partnership with other health care team members to treat those with disease or debilitating conditions. WE have been working in teams for decades and know how to work with our partners in medicine, nursing and other professions. WE know how to work with patients to obtain meaningful information and coach them in taking responsibility for their own health management. WE are the professionals trained to ask questions and develop solutions to the myriad problems that cost our health care system in waste, inefficiency and ineffectiveness. WE, the pharmacists, are the right health care professionals, at the right time, to lead the change in health care to a focus on quality, patient-centered, team-based practices.
Conversely, what are the biggest challenges that students need to be prepared to face as they enter the profession? The supply of pharmacists is coming close to meeting the demand. This is the first time in a generation that our profession has experienced this. Nonetheless, I believe the demand for pharmacists will grow beyond what is needed today. Thus, the challenge for our students is to prepare themselves for a career in a changing world. The delivery of health care will change; the drugs, treatments and other aspects of medicine will change; and the needs and demands of society for pharmacists will change. If our students develop a solid foundation and embrace the challenges ahead, they will be successful.
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Feature
How did you become interested in infectious disease in the critically ill? I worked in the ICU as far back as 1986 as a decentralized pharmacist before I returned to school for the PharmD. I found it fascinating! Infection is one of the few “diseases” that we can cure, and the nature of the interaction between organism, host and drug became a particular interest of mine. The blend of the two aspects, critical illness and infection, became the focus of my research interests and scholarship. I try to find time to participate with my colleagues in research in this area, or write or study on the topic with students, residents or fellow faculty.
What factors drew you to ONU and the dean position at the Raabe College of Pharmacy? Ohio Northern University is a special place, and in particular, the Raabe College of Pharmacy. Every alumnus I’ve met from our college tells me about the wonderful experiences he/she had at ONU and describes the family atmosphere and the personalized attention he/she received. That is special, and it describes a place where I want to work and contribute. Our college also has a reputation throughout the state and region for delivering an excellent academic program. Employers have often confided that they prefer to hire ONU grads because of their training and professionalism. We have 130 years of success upon which our program has been built. We have thousands of alumni around the nation and the world who support our college, its programs and, especially, our students. That is an amazing legacy, and it drew me to ONU. I look forward to serving this college, its students, faculty, staff and alumni.
What do you hope to bring to this position as a seasoned leader and pharmacy educator? I believe in the uniqueness and importance of each individual. Each student is a bright and capable individual. They each have special gifts and talents. They have lives that have shaped who they are and how they will impact the world. I believe we should
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champion that uniqueness in each student and develop his/her strengths, turning each student into an outstanding pharmacist.
What do you believe are the biggest opportunities facing the college? We live and work in Hardin County, one of the poorest counties in the state. We reside in a rural community where access to health care and wellness programs is difficult. At the intersection of poverty and ineffective access is poor health. Our college must take the lead in changing this picture in Hardin County. We must take advantage of our unique skills as pharmacists to provide all of our citizens access to high-quality health care and preventative medicine. We must partner with the other members of the health care team to change the direction of health care for our county. We can do this here, and we can teach our students how to do it wherever they choose to practice.
What are your goals and visions for the college’s future? We started a strategic-planning process this summer, and I am reaching out to many stakeholders for input. I’m hopeful that within the first year, we’ll solidify that plan and begin implementation. We will identify those aspects of our program that are distinctive and plan strategically to invest in those areas and become the best in the nation at them. Our reputation across the country must grow, and that recognition will provide an even greater value to our students and alumni holding an ONU diploma. We must establish sustainable practices that will solidify our ability to remain among the best colleges of pharmacy in the nation, despite the declining population of high school students and the growing number of pharmacy schools. We must also be certain that the culture of our college remains one of collegiality, concern for others, the best use of our unique, God-given talents, and respect for the world He has given us.
What are you most looking forward to as the new dean? I am excited to meet our alumni, to get to know our amazing faculty and staff, and work with our students. We have much to do, and I look forward to the daily successes and challenges.
Can you tell us about your family? My wife and I have four wonderful children: Katie (who is married to Josh Miller and has a son, Preston), Brian (an OSU civil engineering graduate who lives in Columbus), Mary (a high school sophomore), and Anna (our 9-year-old “baby” whom I like to call “Anna Banana”). My wife, Karen, is also a pharmacist and has taught at the University of Illinois at Chicago and the University of Toledo before changing career directions and working in the pharmaceutical industry. Karen’s mom, Marilyn Kimberlin, also lives with us, which gives us four generations in the household when my grandson comes to visit. I also have two brothers who live in the Ann Arbor, Mich., area, and with whose families we get together often.
• Bachelor of Science in pharmacy (1983) and Doctor of Pharmacy (1992) from Ferris State University • 18-year career in higher education • Post-doctoral fellowship training in critical care and infectious diseases pharmacotherapy at the University of Illinois at Chicago (UIC); served on faculty at UIC until 1997 • Chair of the Department of Pharmacy Practice at the University of Toledo (UT) since 2004 • Co-director of the Infectious Disease Research Laboratory at the University of Toledo
How would your wife and children describe you?
• Board-certified pharmacotherapy specialist with added qualifications in infectious disease
I think they’d say I’m a big kid. I don’t take myself or life too seriously. They would also likely complain that I’m a neat freak and I’m more deliberate than they would like. It’s important to note that I am the only man living in a house with four women. I enjoy the weekends when our son comes home for a visit, just because it evens things out a bit!
• Fellow in the American College of Critical Care Medicine and in the American College of Clinical Pharmacy
What are your hobbies and outside interests?
• Directed an infectious disease/critical care pharmacy fellowship program at UT and established specialty and general practice residency programs at UT
I’ve enjoyed running since I was 18 years old. We have a pool in our yard, and our family has adopted a lifestyle of enjoying each other around the pool rather than going places or seeking fun elsewhere. We also have a wine cellar in our basement, and my wife and I (and Grandma!) enjoy trying wines from around the region, country and world. I’m active in my church, and I’m on a life’s study of my faith and my relationship with God.
Background Information
• Served in leadership positions on the Society of Critical Care Medicine, including the current elected pharmacist representative in the Society’s governing Council
• Published numerous books, book chapters, research papers and critical reviews on infection and critical illness in a variety of peerreviewed publications • Served as editor of The Injectable Drug Reference, published by the Society of Critical Care Medicine 2014Fall 2014 TheFall Ampul
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Feature
The politics of pharmacy Inspiring students to get involved
Photo by Erica Tolle
ONU pharmacy students at the Ohio Statehouse during Student Pharmacy Legislative Day. Every spring for the past eight years, professor Deirdre (Mozdy) Myers, BSPh ’83, pharmacy instructor and lab instructor, and her husband, Randy, BSPh ’82, owner of Harry’s Pharmacy in Carey, Ohio, travel to Washington, D.C., with about a dozen ONU pharmacy students. They have a clear-cut mission: to get the students energized about being advocates for their profession. “ONU mom and dad,” as the students affectionately call the couple, keep a watchful eye on the students and offer guidance during the two days they spend at a conference and on Capitol Hill meeting with lawmakers. Deirdre Myers doesn’t mince her words. She tells her protégés to remember the National Community Pharmacists Association (NCPA) motto: “Get into politics or get out of pharmacy.” From expanding immunizations to emergency dispensing, from pharmacy benefit manager audits to provider status, there are many important issues at stake this year that impact each and every pharmacist in the country. The state and federal
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legislators who will be making decisions on these issues need to hear the pharmacists’ perspective, says Deirdre Myers. “I let my students know that health care isn’t partisan. They should feel comfortable talking with legislators on either side about issues that affect patient care.” Students and alumni from the Raabe College of Pharmacy can be a formidable force in shaping health care policy in the U.S. The key is to get students involved in the legislative process while they are still young, before they get busy with their careers and families. The College of Pharmacy is making a concerted effort to do just that, says Deirdre Myers. “Once they get bitten by the bug and recognize the importance of advocacy, they’ll want to continue,” she explains. Ohio Student Pharmacy Legislative Day On Feb. 26, 2014, pharmacy students from across Ohio traveled to Columbus for the Student Pharmacy Legislative Day, sponsored by the Ohio Pharmacists Association and the Ohio Colleges of Pharmacy.
ONU had a large delegation of 77 pharmacy students participating in the event. Event organizers planned an action-packed day that was both empowering and productive. In the morning, students attended educational sessions where they learned about the legislative process, the current issues impacting the pharmacy profession, and how to effectively communicate with their representative. They also participated in a forum with eight Ohio lawmakers, including Raabe College of Pharmacy alumnus Sen. David Burke, BSPh ’90, from Marysville. In the afternoon, small groups of students traveled to the offices of state senators and representatives for individual meetings with the lawmakers or their staff. Taylor Reed, a fifth-year pharmacy student from Springdale, Ark., admits he felt nervous at first about the idea of meeting with legislators. But his anxiety dissipated as soon as he started talking about the issues he felt passionately about. “I had the privilege of joining a highly regarded pharmacist in a meeting with her state senator,” he says. “I was wellprepared and nailed all my talking points. What was amazing, though, was that the legislator had less interest in what she had to say, and more interest in my thoughts and experiences. I was blown away! It spoke very loudly of the power of my voice as a student.” Reed was so inspired by his experiences in Columbus that he decided to become the legislative co-chair for ONU’s NCPA Student Chapter for the 2014-15 school year.
“As health care continues to evolve, I am concerned that pharmacists are not able to practice at the top of their license, and in many cases are being underutilized for their therapeutic knowledge,” he says. “This experience opened my eyes to the power I have to make a difference for the profession and for my patients’ care.”
Trip to D.C. The annual trip to Washington, D.C., in conjunction with the NCPA Legislative Conference took place May 7-8 this year. Deirdre Myers, who serves as the advisor for ONU’s NCPA Student Chapter, said that 13 students jumped at the opportunity to go on the trip, which was mostly funded through multiple donations.
Legislative Reception In April, the ONU NCPA Student Chapter followed up the successful Columbus trip with their fourth annual Legislative Reception featuring Rep. Bob Latta, who represents Ohio’s 5th district in the U.S. Congress.
Deirdre Myers strives to give the students “a power day on the Hill” filled with experiences they won’t soon forget, like lunch in the Longworth cafeteria. She thoroughly prepares each student for their conversations with lawmakers or their aides, and either she, her husband or an ONU pharmacist accompany each student to each meeting.
Approximately 50 pharmacy and political science students attended the event at The Inn at Ohio Northern. Latta talked about current health care legislation and answered questions from the audience. A reception followed, giving students the chance to mingle and chat with Latta. “As Tip O’Neill once said: ‘All politics is local,’” says Deirdre Myers. “Events like this give students the chance to network and build relationships.”
“I like students to know the issues inside and out,” she says. “And we talk about things like using real-life examples, explaining why it matters to patients, and following up with a thank-you note.” Last spring, the pharmacy students who met with Sen. Rob Portman noticed that his office wall was lined
From left to right: Ohio Rep. Bob Latta, fifthyear pharmacy student Deanna Ruble, sixth-year pharmacy student Erica Tolle, Randy Myers, BSPh ’82, Deirdre (Mozdy) Myers, BSPh ’83
with football jerseys from several Ohio colleges, but that ONU was not represented. They promised him an ONU football jersey, and Portman visited ONU in August 2013 to pick up his jersey and to meet with pharmacy students and the football team. “The students took this opening and ran with it,” says Deirdre Myers. “They learned the valuable lesson that grassroots lobbying is about building personal relationships.” Robert Stahler, PharmD ’14, graduated this spring but said he’s committed to continued advocacy because of his eye-opening experiences at ONU. “When I became active in ONU’s chapter of NCPA and was given the opportunity to meet one-on-one with our representatives, I started to truly understand policy and the efforts behind these policies,” he says. “Without the voices of pharmacists, our profession will be shaped and molded by our nation’s lawmakers, who tend to be professionals outside of the health care world. It is our responsibility as pharmacists to help build and better the profession.”
From left to right: ONU President Dan DiBiasio, OPA Executive Director Ernest Boyd, Ohio Sen. Rob Portman, six-year pharmacy student Nick Newman, Deirdre (Mozdy) Myers, BSPh ’82
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On the
cutting edge of
medicine and
pharmacy Megan Keller, PharmD ’11, is helping to redefine the role of the pharmacist in the health care system, and she’s loving every minute. “It’s incredibly exciting to be on the cutting edge of medicine and pharmacy,” she says. “Every day is different.” Keller is the director of clinical pharmacy services at Doctors Hospital Family Practice in Grove City, Ohio. A family-medicine training program for osteopathic physicians, Doctors Hospital Family Practice is home to 18 residents and three attending physicians. Keller’s role is to integrate pharmaceutical expertise into the total care provided to patients. She accomplishes this 10 10
by building relationships with the physicians and patients and educating them on all things pharmacy related.
do you have a few minutes to chat?” “My patient needs in-depth medication counseling; would you join me on the appointment?”
Energetic, upbeat and personable, Keller is a popular teacher. She accompanies residents on appointments, guides them in drug selection, answers their medication questions, and delivers monthly lectures.
“I love it, and there is nowhere else I would rather be,” says Keller, who rarely has any downtime. “Even when I am not at work, my mind wanders, thinking about how I can better teach the medical residents or how I can improve patient care.”
She encourages back-and-forth banter, creative problem-solving and teamwork. The residents bombard her with all types of questions: “My patient isn’t tolerating XYZ because of ABC; what do you recommend?” “I’m struggling to understand insulin;
Calling herself a “passionate advocate” for patients, Keller always reminds the residents to treat each patient with compassion and concern. “I tell them that even though this may be their 15th patient of the day, this patient
has been anxiously awaiting this appointment. Those 15 minutes of the doctor’s time are extremely important to the patient.” Keller herself works directly with patients to facilitate healing. She helps them to manage their disease states, reviews their medications for negative interactions, and educates them about their medications. “I truly want patients to get better,” she says. “And that often means bridging the gap between the patient and the medication they know so little about.” Recounting a story that still gives her the chills, Keller says she discovered early on that pharmacists can have a major impact on patient care. Her story involves a middle-aged man with diabetes with whom she had established a relationship through follow-up calls to obtain blood-sugar readings. The patient jokingly called her “Sergeant Keller” because she would
sometimes lecture him about his diet. One day, when he came in for a doctor’s appointment, Keller popped her head in the room just to say “hi.” In the course of their small talk, the patient told Keller that he had been feeling
down and had lost interest in his woodworking hobby. As Keller probed, she learned that the patient had considered suicide and even had a suicide plan.
her on to the field of medication therapy management, and mentors like Dr. Jenelle Sobotka and Dr. David Bright developed her confidence and skills as a leader.
Although Keller’s heart was beating fast, she managed to reassure the patient that depression often goes hand-inhand with disease states such as diabetes. When she asked the patient why he hadn’t mentioned this to his physician, he told her he didn’t want to “let anyone down.” He felt more comfortable sharing the information with Keller, because he knew her better through the frequent blood-sugar calls.
“I am truly thankful for my ONU experiences, both inside and outside the Raabe College of Pharmacy,” she says. “It takes a special environment to allow students to grow, mature and succeed. I have friendships that will last a lifetime, mentors that had an incredible impact on me, and a sense of pride in what I do that all stem from my time at ONU.”
“I was able to bring the physician back in to consult with him, and today the patient is doing great,” she says. “What would have happened if I hadn’t stopped in to see him that day? What if he never got that off his chest? I feel so blessed he trusted me with that information.”
Although the residents and patients keep her hopping, Keller still finds time to precept ONU APPE students. ONU opened many doors for her, says Keller. A medical mission trip to Kenya and an ONU/Kroger residency turned
By serving as a preceptor, says Keller, she can give back to her alma mater by helping pharmacy students grow in their skills. “I really feel like this is an excellent rotation for pharmacy students,” she explains. “Since this is a teaching facility and the resident physicians also are learning, the pharmacy students and physician residents complement each other very well to come up with the best treatment strategy for the patient. They are both teaching each other, and everyone is here to learn.” Keller’s career is still in its infancy, yet she’s already making gains in altering physicians’ and patients’ perception of the pharmacist. She looks forward to what the future brings. “As I always tell my pharmacy students: keep smiling and keep a positive attitude,” she says. “And most importantly, remember that you are an important asset to the health care team!”
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New potential treatment
Anaphylactic Shock Two Brazilian students learn about drug development in the U.S. of two pharmacy students from Brazil, is testing a new formulation of epinephrine – a fast-dissolving tablet – for its potential use as an alternative frontline treatment.
Dr. Yousif Rojeab, ONU associate professor of pharmaceutics, with Brazilian exchange students Fernanda Salles and Patricia Back
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etting stung by a bee or encountering a peanut product isn’t a big deal for most people. But for some, it triggers a severe and lifethreatening allergic reaction that requires immediate medical intervention. EpiPen® – an auto-injection formulation of epinephrine – is considered the “gold standard” treatment for anaphylactic shock. But Dr. Yousif Rojeab, ONU associate professor of pharmaceutics, with the assistance 12
“I’m excited about this project because it coincides with my passion for oral drug delivery and novel formulation development,” says Rojeab. “And for the Brazilian students, it’s a unique opportunity to participate in translational research and learn about the early stages of drug development in the U.S.” The number of children with allergies to food, medicines, pollens and more is on the rise in the U.S. While scientists don’t know for certain what is causing the increase in allergic disease, some speculate that our society’s focus on cleanliness has reduced the amount of germs, bacteria and other parasites that children encounter, thereby interrupting the normal development of the immune system.
“Allergic disease is absolutely a growing trend,” explains Rojeab. “And because of this, many states, including Ohio, are passing laws that encourage or require schools to have EpiPens® on hand.” Although EpiPen® is highly effective, it does have downsides, says Rojeab. EpiPen® is expensive – around $140 each. It’s bulky compared to a small pill, and people need to be trained in how to administer the injection. Rojeab’s former colleague – a retired medical doctor at Nobel Laboratories Inc. in Austin, Texas – came up with the idea of delivering epinephrine via a fast-dissolving oral tablet. “There are several advantages for this approach,” says Rojeab. “A fast-dissolving oral tablet would be more convenient, handy, portable and economical should it eventually make its way to the market.”
them to study in another country. They arrived at ONU in August 2013 and will return to their home country to finish their studies in December 2014.
Rojeab’s research lab at ONU is working with Nobel Laboratories to test the absorption kinetics of epinephrine from the fastdissolving tablet. Healthy subjects (who are hooked up to a cardiac monitor) ingest the tablet, and then Rojeab and his assistants closely monitor them for a threehour period, obtaining frequent blood samples and blood pressure and heart rate readings. “We are evaluating how fast the drug gets into the bloodstream and if it hits the right amounts, comparing it to the EpiPen®,” says Rojeab. For two Brazilian students – Fernanda Salles and Patricia Back – serving as research assistants for this project is an incredible opportunity, one not readily available in their home country. Third-year pharmacy students, they are participating in the Brazil Scientific Mobility Program, a government initiative that enables
“I am learning about how a clinical study is conducted, complementing what I learned theoretically during class,” says Back. “The whole process, before and after collecting samples from the individuals, is improving my technique.” Both students are driven to become pharmacists because they want to help people achieve the best health outcomes possible. “I want to help relieve pain and suffering,” says Back. “To me, there is nothing worse than seeing a person suffering because there
is not adequate medicine to treat him or her.” Salles agrees. “Being a pharmacist is more than a profession; it means to live for the well-being of others,” she adds. Since both students dream of working as researchers in the pharmaceutical industry, says Rojeab, working on a clinical trial will help them develop the skills and experiences that will open doors for them in the future. “The U.S. is known all over the world for its pharmaceutical industry,” says Salles. “This experience is unique and will certainly help me achieve my goal, and make a difference in people’s health.”
The Epinephrine Project Research Team (from left to right): Patricia Back, Brazilian exchange student; Yousif Rojeab, ONU associate professor of pharmaceutics; Christina Liebrecht, assistant professor of nursing; Cynthia Woodfield, visiting assistant professor of nursing; Mohamad Hassoun, study subject volunteer and fourth-year pharmacy student; Nancy Schroeder, assistant professor of nursing; and Fernanda Salles, Brazilian exchange student.
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The Ampul
Celebrating the
130th Commencement
For the first time in its 130-year history, the Raabe College of Pharmacy held a separate Commencement Ceremony to recognize the achievements of pharmacy graduates. The dignified and joyful event took place on Sunday, May 11, 2014, at 9 a.m. One-hundred and sixty-eight individuals received a Doctor of Pharmacy and celebrated with family and friends the beginning of a new chapter in their lives.
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The Ampul Fall 2014
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Alumnus Mark Butler addresses graduates Butler’s career included serving as the commander of the 59th Clinical Support Group for the U.S. Air Force from 2009 to 2011, and pharmacy consultant to the Air Force surgeon general and associate chief of pharmacy from 2008 to 2009. He served in numerous leadership positions and received many commendations from the Air Force for his pharmacy expertise. He currently serves as the chief of pharmacy service at the Dayton VA Medical Center.
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etired Col. Mark E. Butler, BSPh ’79, noted for his distinguished military career in the United States Air Force, delivered the 2014 Pharmacy Commencement address and received an honorary doctorate during the ceremony. Butler’s ties to ONU can be traced back four generations to his great-grandfather, who received a pharmacy degree from ONU 125 years ago. His grandfather, who rode his bike each week from Roundhead to Ada to attend ONU, and his father, whose college career was interrupted by service in the U.S. Army during World War II, also received pharmacy degrees from ONU. “In my mind as a young boy, Ada was kind of a Shangri-La,” said Butler in his speech. “ONU beckoned, and I knew it was the right school for me. My relationship with this institution and these people is one of the treasured experiences in my life.”
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In his speech, Butler reminded the pharmacy graduates that they will be looked upon as leaders in the workplace because of their education, training and position. He told them that important leadership traits – integrity, competency, respect and courage – are skills and traits that can be learned and developed. He described three models of leadership and encouraged students to learn from each model. “Leadership is an apprentice trade,” he said. “You learn leadership by leading – experience and reflection. You learn by mentorship – involvement with an established leader in an interactive, dinodal relationship. You learn by reading about leaders – both today’s leaders and from history books. And finally, you learn by watching and listening to leaders – both good and bad.” Butler is a member of the Raabe College of Pharmacy Advisory Board. Several years ago, he presented his alma mater with a flag he carried during his deployment to Operation Enduring Freedom, and this flag is displayed in the Sebok Lobby. In 2011, he facilitated full-tuition scholarships for six ONU pharmacy students who were commissioned as second lieutenants in the U.S. Air Force.
Pharmacy News & Activities
Kappa Epsilon Psi Chapter stands out During the 2014 ONU Relay for the Life, the Psi Chapter also coordinated a Hair-Cut-A-Thon. More than 70 generous women (and men) donated ponytails to Pantene’s Beautiful Lengths Program. The hair will be made into wigs and given to the American Cancer Society, which distributes wigs free of cost to those in need.
From left to right, fifth-year pharmacy student Samantha Schulte, fourth-year pharmacy student Shannon Kraus, fourth-year pharmacy student Kristina Allen
ONU’s Kappa Epsilon Psi Chapter received the “Continued Excellence Award” at the recent Kappa Epsilon National Convention in Richmond, Va. “The award was presented to us to recognize the dedication our chapter has given to both the profession of pharmacy and the community,” says Samantha Schulte, chapter president and fifth-year pharmacy student. After receiving the award last summer, the Psi Chapter didn’t rest on its laurels. Instead, the chapter took its commitment to service to a new level this past academic year. Kappa Epsilon is a professional fraternity that seeks to unite female pharmacy students by encouraging excellence in scholarship, professionalism and service. The organization also builds a sense of community on campus and encourages lasting friendships. ONU’s Psi Chapter – one of the largest Kappa Epsilon chapters in the country – engages in many annual outreach projects, including
performing blood pressure screenings, participating in health fairs, and educating high school students about the profession of pharmacy. “Another tradition that sets us apart from other chapters is our commitment to those affected by breast cancer,” says Schulte. “In addition to hosting a Women’s Health Week where we provide information about breast cancer, we reach out to those in the community who have been recently diagnosed with breast cancer to provide them with baskets filled with comforting and fun items, such as blankets and nail polish. We want to let these women know that they are not alone and that people are sending them well wishes.” This academic year, the chapter revamped Women’s Health Week to make it a more engaging event. The event included a special guest speaker – a young breast cancer survivor who shared her story – and a “birthday party” to raise money for the Young Survivors Coalition.
In addition to service projects, the Psi Chapter coordinates many social events – such as movie and craft nights – so that sisters can come together and grow closer. The chapter also reaches out to alumni through the “Alumni Aunt Program,” which pairs current Psi Chapter sisters with alumni for networking and mentoring. “The bonds that are forged during these activities is what keeps our chapter going strong,” says Schulte. “Without a sense of connection to each other, we wouldn’t be able to accomplish such great feats.” The Psi Chapter is advised by Natalie DiPietro Mager, PharmD ’01, associate professor of pharmacy practice and a Kappa Epsilon sister. 2014 Fall 2014 TheFall Ampul
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Pharmacy News & Activities
Alumni mentor students On March 27, the Raabe College of Pharmacy held its annual Mentorship Dinner for third-year pharmacy students. Students were paired with pharmacy alumni who provided career advice and updates on what’s happening in the pharmacy profession. “Alumni are able to share their career journey and learn about their mentee’s career aspirations,” explains Kelly Shields, assistant dean and director of pharmacy student services. The 15th annual Mentorship Reception will take place on Nov. 15, 2014, in conjunction with the college’s White Coat Ceremony. If you are interested in being an alumni mentor, contact Pharmacy Students Services via pharmacy@onu.edu or 419-772-2278.
Fourth-year pharmacy students Angela Chu and Wisdom Adaka
Fifth-year pharmacy student David Peters, Chelsea Peters, PharmD ’13, and sixth-year pharmacy student Nick Manion
Fourth-year pharmacy students Steven Cole and Kelsey Robinson
Fourth-year pharmacy student Amanda Everlove with retired Col. Mark E. Butler, BSPh ’79, Hon. D. ’14
Fifth-year pharmacy student David Peters and sixth-year pharmacy student Cody Hay
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Amy Fanous, PharmD ’12, and Chelsea Peters, PharmD ’13
Cherryl Zekeng, PharmD ’13
Jay Meyer, BSPh ’82, ACIT ’06
Special thanks to Rite Aid, which has provided leadership support for the Mentorship Initiative since its inception.
Pharmacy Career Fair
ONU’s Office of Polar Careers offers the Pharmacy Career Fair as a recruitment tool for pharmacy and pharmaceutical business students and alumni seeking full-time positions, internships and residencies. Alumni whose organizations hire in any of these areas, or alumni who are looking for careers in these areas, are invited to attend. The Pharmacy Career Fair is held annually in October. If you are interested in recruiting ONU students or attending future career fair activities, please contact Jane Ward, employee relations manager, at j-ward.2@onu.edu.
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Student Focus
Tonrey delivers Sebok Lecture Capt. Lisa Tonrey, an active-duty commissioned officer of the U.S. Public Health Service (USPHS) for 22 years, delivered the Sebok Lecture at the Freed Center for the Performing Arts on Jan. 29, 2014. Her lecture was titled “Pharmacists as Providers – Challenging the Status Quo!” Tonrey is a recognized leader and advocate for advanced pharmacy practice. A former president of the American Pharmacists Association (the first woman on active duty to hold this position), she has had a distinguished career in public health with many diverse experiences. She currently serves as the pharmacy consultant to the Phoenix Area Indian Health Service. The Sebok Pharmacy Lecture was established by alumni and friends to honor the late Dr. Albert A. Sebok, BSPh ’53, Hon. D. ’88, one of the Raabe College of Pharmacy’s most distinguished alumni. The 2015 Sebok Lecture will be held on Feb. 13, 2015. The featured speaker will be Mary M. “Peggy” Piascik, BSPh ’74, president of the American Association of Colleges of Pharmacy (AACP).
Klondike greets visitors
Klondike, the Polar Bear mascot, extends a friendly welcome to alumni, friends and prospective students who visit the dean’s office, thanks to a donation from Jim Hay, BSPh ’72. Hay is pictured with Klondike (who proudly sports his pharmacy lab coat, nametag and Kappa Psi pledge pin) and his son, Cody Hay, a sixth-year pharmacy student in the college.
ONU alumni and friends have a unique perspective that can help us connect with the country’s most talented students. Ways to get involved: · Refer students to ONU · Join the Alumni B.E.A.R.S. program · Share your ONU experiences and accomplishments on Facebook · Talk at your local high school’s career fair · Attend a college fair on behalf of ONU · Invite a student to tour campus
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Three alumni receive APhA honors The American Pharmacists Association (APhA) and its Academy of Pharmacy Practice and Management (APPM) honored the following Raabe College of Pharmacy alumni during the 2014 Annual Meeting in March in Orlando, Fla. Stuart Beatty, PharmD ’03, received the APPM Distinguished Achievement Award in Pharmacy Practice for his significant contributions in expanding the role of the pharmacist in the patient-centered medical home. Beatty, an assistant professor of clinical pharmacy at the Ohio State University College of Pharmacy, created a sustainable pharmacy practice model by incorporating pharmacist-provided services in several interdisciplinary areas, including chronic pain management, diabetes, geriatrics and transition of care. In addition to teaching, he practices at the OSU general internal medicine clinics, where he combines patient care services with experiential learning and clinical research. Allen Nichol, BSPh ’74, received the Daniel B. Smith Practice Excellence Award for being an innovative and influential leader in advancing the pharmacist professional practice. He has not only developed clinical treatment algorithms for several diseases (including pain management), but also taken a leadership role in demonstrating the value of pharmacist clinical services, and in seeking reimbursement through third party and governmental programs. Nichol is the CEO and VP of clinical operations at CeutiCare, a health information technology company he cofounded. He also practices as a clinical pharmacist with the American Health Network in Columbus. He received his PharmD from Southeastern University of the Health Sciences (now Nova Southeastern University).
Jennifer Rodis, PharmD ’02, an associate professor of pharmacy at the Ohio State University College of Pharmacy, was named a 2014 APhA-APPM fellow. Rodis is a passionate advocate for the pharmacy profession. She empowers current and future pharmacists to become indispensable care providers in the community setting. She created and directs the Partner for Promotion program, which brings together students and community pharmacists to develop and implement advanced patient care services to local communities. She also provides MTM and disease management services to patients with diabetes, cardiovascular disease and anticoagulation through the Clinical Partners Program – an award-winning ambulatory/ community care clinic. Rodis received the Ohio Pharmacists Association (OPA) Distinguished Young Pharmacists Award, APhA-APPM Merit Award, and the AACP Innovations in Teaching Award for her work with the Partner for Promotion program.
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POLAR BEAR
No matter if you’re in Ada, Alaska or the Antarctic, you can feel the excitement in the air. It’s the pull of the Polar Bear Nation at Ohio Northern University. Last year, the Polar Bear Nation Regional Challenge divided the nation into seven regions to see which region’s alumni had the most love for Ohio Northern. If your region didn’t win last year, don’t worry! This is your region’s chance to secure the No. 1 spot! Like last year, the goal of our challenge is to engage our donors, everywhere! Just like when you were a student, alumni participation is one of the key metrics used by national publications like U.S News & World Report to determine where Ohio Northern stands in their rankings. When our ranking is on the rise, so is the value of your degree. Join your fellow Polar Bears and help ONU and your region off to a strong start through your support of The Northern Fund.
Give today! Visit www.onugive.com or call 1-866-ONU-GIVE.
Advisory Board Dr. Bruce Bouts BSPh ’82 General Internist Blanchard Valley Medical Associates Inc. Findlay, Ohio Col. (Ret.) Mark Butler BSPh ’79 Chief of Pharmacy, Dayton VA Medical Center Dr. Shawn Eaton PharmD ’01 District Manager CVS Caremark Twinsburg, Ohio George Hill BA ’69, BSPh ’74 Director, Pharmacy Services, Retired Catholic Health Initiatives Erlanger, Ky. Kathy Karas BA, BSPh ’75 Staff Pharmacist Acme Akron, Ohio Richard Keyes BSPh ’92 Executive Vice President of Supply Chain Operations and Mfg. Meijer Inc. Grand Rapids, Mich.
Theresa “Tip” Parker BSPh ’74 Director of Trade Relations & Pharmacy Operations, Retired Abbott PPD Abbott Park, Ill. Robert “Bob” Parsons BSPh ’71 Executive Vice President Ohio Society of HealthSystem Pharmacists Marietta, Ohio
17th annual Pharmacy Golf Day
Alumni and friends gathered on Aug. 15, 2014, for the 17th annual Pharmacy Golf Day. A great day of sun and golf was followed by an awards dinner and comments by Steven Martin, dean of the College of Pharmacy. Thanks to the generous support of alumni and friends, the golf outing has raised more than $150,000 since its inception to provide muchneeded support for current and future ONU pharmacy students.
Dr. Ervin Pierstorf ’53, Hon. D. ’78 Chairman of the Board and CEO, Retired Fairview Photo Services Rocky River, Ohio, and Pinellas Park, Fla. Tom Wiechart BSPh ’81 Pharmacist Rite Aid Lima, Ohio Suzanne Eastman Wuest BSPh ’74 Senior Director of Clinical Services Adheris Inc. Cincinnati, Ohio
The first-place winners from the class of 1978, from left to right: Les Foster, Steven Martin, dean of the College of Pharmacy, Charlie Cather, Jeff Holycross, Mark BonDurant
Steven Martin, dean of the College of Pharmacy, with long-drive winner Lucas Sargent, BSPh ’02
ONU President Dan DiBiasio with Hanley Wheeler, BSPh ’82, senior vice president of CVS Health
Paul T. Kocis BSPh ’88, PharmD ’03 Staff Clinical Pharmacist, Anticoagulation Clinic Milton S. Hershey Medical Center, Penn State University Hershey, Pa. Phillip Lettrich BSPh ’85 Channel Manager First Databank Inc.
Members of the Rite Aid foursome, from left to right: Barney Renard, Kevin Mitchell, BSPh ’89, Angie (Smith) Guinn, BSPh ’00, Andy Young
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University Advancement 525 South Main Street Ada, OH 45810-1599
Save the Date! Columbus Meet-the-Dean Alumni and Friends Reception at Barley’s Brewing Company November 13 White Coat Ceremony and Mentorship Reception November 15 Los Angeles Meet-the-Dean Alumni and Friends Reception at ASHP Mid-Year December 8
Sebok Lecture Speaker: Dr. Mary M. “Peggy” Piascik, BSPh ’74, president of the American Association of Colleges of Pharmacy February 13, 2015 Annual Pharmacy Golf Day August 14, 2015