SPRING 2022
Advancing THE
Profession State-Of-The-Art Pharmacy Building Opens in 2022 Over 70% of Graduates Obtain Residencies & Fellowships Faculty Secure Millions in Research Funding UMES Goes Global to the Dominican Republic
MESSAGE FROM THE DEAN Greetings, As we enter the end of the spring semester and the world slowly returns to normalcy, our School of Pharmacy and Health Professions building is on track to open its doors this Fall. This 65,000 sq. ft. state-of-theart construction contains classroom, offices, research laboratories, and simulated learning environments to house pharmacy, pharmaceutical sciences, and accommodate interprofessional activities with our allied health programs. We are excited to show you the new building at the Opening Ceremony in September. This semester, we partnered with numerous community organizations to provide volunteer service for initiatives involving epilepsy, suicide, and pollution. We also hosted a mini Health and Wellness Festival with physical therapy students for health education. This also marked the first year time after the pandemic where our students and faculty went to the Dominican Republic with the Honors Program for a service-learning project on environmental stability. Our faculty have been involved in advancing research in health equities for opioids, obesity, sexually transmitted diseases, and vaccine hesitancy. This has resulted in millions of dollars of collaborative research funding this year. We congratulate Drs. Allen and Purnell for their faculty advancements and accolades, respectively. Finally, this semester marked many interprofessional programming and awards for our students, but the highlight was ending the term with the hooding and graduation of the Class of 2022. This class has secured the highest percentage of post-graduate placement in the school’s history with over 70% acceptances to residency and fellowships. This class has flourished despite the pandemic and we are proud of their achievements. In this edition, I encourage you to read about how our students, faculty, and staff continue to advance the profession through research, community service, and lifelong learning. Soar Above and Beyond,
T. Sean Vasaitis, PhD Acting Dean of the School of Pharmacy and Health Professions
TABLE OF CONTENTS LIST OF ADMINISTRATORS Dr. Heidi M. Anderson President
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Hooding and Awards Ceremony
Dr. Rondall Allen Provost and Vice President of Academic Affairs
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Graduation Remarks
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Post-Graduate Opportunities
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Awards and Pinning Ceremony
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Interprofessional Events
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Community Service
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Faculty News
Dr. T. Sean Vasaitis Acting Dean, School of Pharmacy and Health Professions Dr. Timothy Gladwell Associate Dean for Academic Affairs and Assessment Dr. Lana Sherr Assistant Dean for Professional Affairs Dr. Kawanda Williams Assistant Dean for Experiential Education Dr. Frederick Tejada Interim Assistant Dean of Student Affairs Dr. Victor Hsia Department Chair, Pharmaceutical Sciences Dr. Miriam Purnell Department Chair, Pharmacy Practice and Administration
Allen named UMES’ Chief Academic Policymaker Professor Purnell is an Award-Winning Mentor Welcome Dr. Omar Attarabeen Preceptors of the Year
Communications Committee Dr. Yen Dang Mrs. Nancy Rodriguez-Weller Dr. Frederick Tejada Dr. Kawanda Williams
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Faculty Research and Grants
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Alumni Spotlight
Alumni Affairs Co-Directors Dr. Patrice L. Jackson-Ayotunde Dr. Frederick Tejada Dr. Hoai-An Truong
Epilepsy Walk Winter Drive for Somerset County Restore the Shore Mini Health & Wellness Festival Walk for Life UMES Goes Global to the Dominican Republic
DDBRT Program Sexual Education to Mitigate Risk Reduction SCALE DOWN
This magazine is a publication of the School of Pharmacy. To update your mailing information, send an email to pldouglas@ umes.edu or call 410-651-8327. For more information about the School, visit our website www.umes.edu/shp.
UMES RxTimes | Spring 2022
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HOODING AND AWARDS CE The Hooding Ceremony is a special recognition ceremony for doctoral degree pharmacy candidates. During the ceremony, a faculty member places the doctoral hood over the head of the graduate, signifying their success in completing the pharmacy professional program. On Thursday, May 19th, PharmD candidates from the Class of 2022 were hooded at the Wicomico Youth and Civic Center. Congratulations, Class of 2022!
The Class of 2022 Pharmacy Graduates
Dr. Bresette of USAID, keynote speaker, addresses the graduating class.
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Ms. Jumoke Akinola, class president, gives the audience a message from the students.
EREMONY ACADEMIC ACHIEVEMENT AWARDS VALEDICTORIAN Jesse Bennett SALUTATORIAN Alyssa Reese SUMMA CUM LAUDE Alyssa Reese Jesse Bennett MAGNA CUM LAUDE Yunghon Lee CUM LAUDE Edelquine Mandzo Ashley Andrew Dominic Twumasi Michelle Yang Blair Yesko
Name of Award
Recipient(s)
Student Leadership Award Certificate
Alyssa Reese
CARE Oncology Award
Jumoke Akinola Oritsesan Erewa
Peggy Naleppa Outstanding Citizenship Award
Edelquine Mandzo
American Pharmacists Association Graduate Award
Jeremy Wirick
American Society of Consultant Pharmacists Award
Blair Yesko
National Community Pharmacists Association Award
Bertrand Akuche
Kappa Psi Brother of the Year
Tasha Williams
Phi Delta Chi Brother of the Year
Lisa Yi
American Institute of the History of Pharmacy Award
Ashley Andrew
CVS Standard Scholarship Certificate
Safiya Nur Dominic Twumasi
Facts & Comparisons Award of Excellence in Clinical Communication
Blair Yesko
Lilly Achievement Award
Ashley Andrew
Merck Manual Award
Eric Yunghon Lee
VIATRIS Excellence in Pharmacy Award
Sehara Hill
Walgreens Multilingual Scholarship Certificate
Mercedes Vilasoa
Apple Discount Drugs Community Pharmacy Award 2022
Lisa Yi
Maryland Pharmacists Association
Sakeena Kazmi
Maryland Pharmaceutical Society
Edelquine Mandzo
Maryland Society of Health-System Pharmacy Award
Michelle Yang
USPHS Excellence in Public Health Pharmacy Award Certificate
Alyssa Reese
Area Health Education Center (AHEC) Scholars Program
Pooneh Azadikah Sakeena Kazmi Edelquine Mandzo Mirette Mina Safiya Nur Alyssa Reese Blair Yesko
American Society of Health-System Pharmacists
Alyssa Reese Blair Yesko
Pharmaceutical Research and Innovation Award
Edelquine Mandzo
Award in Complementary and Alternative Medicine
Benjamin Peckman
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GRADUATION REMARKS Compiled by Faith Joseph, Student Pharmacist, Class of 2024
“Education is not preparation for life; Education is life itself.”
“While my degree will have my name on it, it wasn't possible without the overwhelming support of family, friends, faculty, and mentors. This journey has only reinforced the importance of building and maintaining strong bonds and perhaps engaging in a bit of trauma bonding with your classmates!”
JOYCELINE ALEMGANG
SAKEENA KAZMI
“The journey wasn’t easy but it was worth it. Thanks to my family and friends for the support, and to God for bringing me through.”
“No matter where you are, let your light and smile shine bright because you never know who is watching.”
TASHA WILLIAMS
EDELQUINE MANZO
“I did it! One white coat for all three years!”
LISA YI
BENJAMIN PECKMAN
“Professor - “You don’t need to know dosing” - Proceeds to put dosing questions on the exams.”
“During pharmacy school, I realized that laughter is the best medicine.”
DOMINIC TWUMASI
KERISHA SINGH
“"You are a drop in the ocean. Every drop counts." ~ by a dear friend” MIRETTE MINA
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“I am glad I was able to learn and grow with such a cohort, and look forward to us all taking this leap into the rest of our lives.”
“I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me. -Philippians 4:13. I have found this quote to be true in my life because were it not for the grace, mercy, and power of God, I would not have made it this far! I am in awe of Him 100%.” LEVINA WANGUI
“What can I say? I laughed, cried, went broke on fast food, and most importantly, my mum became a parttime comedian to cheer me up.”
“Thank you to my classmates, mentors, friends, and family for supporting my dream to become a pharmacist!”
ORITSESAN EREWA
BLAIR YESKO
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POST-GRADUATE OPPORTUNITIES Class of 2023 PGY-1 Residency
Pooneh Azadikhah
Jeremy Wirick
Holy Cross Hospital Silver Spring, MD
Bayhealth Hospital Dover, DE
Kerisha Singh
Sehara Hill
Sibley Memorial Hospital/ Johns Hopkins Medicine Washington, DC
Mercedes Vilasoa
Johns Hopkins Home Care Group Baltimore, MD
Blair Yesko
Johns Hopkins Hospital Baltimore, MD
Michelle Yang
Orlando VA Healthcare System Orlando, FL
Sajjad Haque
Medical University of South Carolina-MUSC Health Charleston, SC
Apple Discount Drugs - UMES Princess Anne, MD
Alyssa Reese
Central Virginia VA Healthcare System Richmond, VA
Benjamin Peckman Centra Health
Lynchburg, VA
Edelquine Mandzo
Medstar Georgetown University Hospital Washington, DC
Safiya Nur
University Hospitals Cleveland Medical Center Cleveland, OH
Class of 2023 Post-Doctoral Fellowships (2022-2024)
Ashley Andrew
GlaxoSmithKline (GSK) US Medical Affairs Rutgers University | Warren, NJ
Jumoke Akinola
Janssen Pharmaceuticals (J&J) Med. Info Integration, Vaccines Rutgers University | Titusville, NJ
Sakeena Kazmi
Ipsen Biopharmaceuticals, Inc. Medical Affairs & Regulatory Affairs Northeastern University | Boston, MA UMES RxTimes | Spring 2022
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AWARDS AND PINNING CEREMONY
Class of 2023 students celebrating post-pinning ceremony
The School of Pharmacy (SOP) held its Awards and Pinning Ceremony on April 29, 2022 at the Ella Fitzgerald Center for Performing Arts. SOP celebrated the Class of 2024 and 2023 students, faculty and staff winners of scholarships, student organizations, administrative, academic service, and leadership awards. The Class of 2023 students also received their pins as they transitioned into advanced pharmacy practice experiences for their final year of pharmacy school! It was heartwarming to see the SP1s and SP2s together and the faculty really felt the great camaraderie among the students.
EXTERNAL SCHOLARSHIPS Alyssa Behr
CVS Health Spanish Fluency Scholarship
Andrew Martin
CVS Standard Scholarship
Sophia Amoah
Most Active SP1
Brittney Henry
Walgreens Diversity and Inclusion Scholarship
Ashley Che
Most Innovative
Deshay Redd
Most Active SP2
Besen Sanga
Most Reliable
Audree Mbianda
STUDENT ORGANIZATION AWARDS American Pharmacists Association Academy of Student Pharmacists SP2 Member of the Year
Kevin Aikins
SP1 Member of the Year
Sochima Oriaku
SP1 Involvement Award
Dana Adams Alyssa Behr
American Society of Consultant Pharmacists
Member Chapter of the Year
Rebekah Torchon
Student National Pharmaceutical Association
Kappa Psi Pharmaceutical Fraternity Industry Pharmacist Organization Most Reliable Member
Obinna Ejoh
Outstanding Achievement & Leadership
Gabriel Joseph
Most Entrepreneur & Innovative
Ramatoulaye Koita
Pharmacy Student Government Association Most Active Organization
CPFI
Most Dedicated Fundraiser
Alyssa Reese
Leader Award
Gabriel Joseph
Member of the Year
Blair Yesko Pamela Yoga
Advocacy Award
Ummu Thomas
Most Active/Dedicated Brother
Ummu Thomas
Most Inspirational Brother
Kevin Aikins
Leadership Award
Ashley Che Edmond Boafo
Most Active New Brother
Brittney Henry
American Society of Health System Pharmacists Most Active Members
Leadership Award
Ashley Che Chidera Egeonu Obinna Ejoh Andrew Martin Ashley Pete
Christian Pharmacists Fellowship International
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Phi Lambda Sigma
D. Page Elmore Scholarship
Evangelism Award
Kevin Aikins
Prayer Warrior Award
Rebekah Torchon
Consistent Award
Sophia Amoah
Extraordinary Service Award
Tania Estrada
Behind-the-Scenes Award
Patrick Shifflett
Faith and Service Award
Edmond Boafo Ashley Pete
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Phi Delta Chi Pharmaceutical Fraternity Brotherhood Award
Patrick Shifflett
Pledge of the Year Award
Alyssa Behr
ADMINISTRATIVE, ACADEMIC SERVICE & LEADERSHIP AWARDS Highest GPA Award, SP-1
Pamela Koga
Highest GPA Award, SP-2
Patrick Shifflett
Student Leadership Award
Ummu Thomas
OTHER STUDENT EVENTS Written by Kaylin Sterling, Student Pharmacist, Class of 2024
LEGISLATIVE DAY Legislative Day allowed pharmacy students from UMES to virtually talk to Maryland state senators about two important bills that directly impacted pharmacy: HB1219 and SB0661. These bills included pharmacists in the definition of “healthcare provider” and allowed pharmacists to administer injectable medications for the treatment of sexually transmitted diseases. Students were split into groups and had the chance to discuss with the 47 different district senators over Zoom about why these bills should be passed.
MPhA MIDYEAR EVENT
RHO CHI INDUCTION CEREMONY
Students and faculty joined the Maryland Pharmacists Association Midyear event to present 5 student posters in Columbia, Maryland, on Saturday, February 26th, 2022. UMES had the highest number of poster presentations at the Midyear event.
Rho Chi Honor Society is an organization to encourage high scholastic achievement and fellowship among students in pharmacy. In April, 15 students from the Class of 2022 and 2023 were inducted into the Delta Sigma Chapter.
WOMEN'S HISTORY MONTH Women’s History Month is a national annually proclaimed month that celebrates all the contributions throughout history made by women. In honor of March being Women’s Month, Joelle Odigie rallied the entire University of Maryland Easten Shore (UMES) School of Pharmacy (SOP) in support by asking faculty, staff and students to wear the colors of white, purple and/or green on March 15th. These colors symbolize purity (white), justice and dignity (purple), and hope (green).
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INTERPROFESSIONAL EVENTS ESCIPE Provides Interprofessional Practice Experience for Two Universities On Tuesday, April 5th 2022, the ESCIPE (Eastern Shore Collaborative of Inter-Professional Education) Committee provided an interactiveeducational lab opportunity for students from different health professions. Respiratory therapy and nursing students from Salisbury University along with University of Maryland Eastern Shore physical therapy and pharmacy students worked together to discuss and intervene collaboratively in a patient scenario. The goal of this activity was to expose each student to the various professional roles and responsibilities of the future clinician. Students discussed different strategies from each profession to optimize therapeutic outcomes such as how to assist a patient from a bed to a chair, the importance of post-op labs and followup, respiratory interventions and medication considerations. UMES and SU students discuss patient outcomes interprofessionally.
Impact of Opioid Usage in Families with Young Children Interprofessional Seminar
Pharmacy, rehabilitation, and physical therapy students participated in opioid interprofessional activities.
Drs. Dang, Conners, Santos, and Lankford-Purnell, speakers during the IPE event.
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An opioid-focused interprofessional seminar was developed by healthcare professionals from UMES and the University of Maryland School of Medicine, Division of Child and Adolescent Psychiatric and Global Partners for Father and Families. The goal of the seminar was to increase awareness, knowledge, and access to resources and strategies for families affected by the opioid epidemic. The seminar focused on recognizing symptoms of addiction, treating intoxication and withdrawal, understanding the impact of addiction on families, specifically in children under 5 years, and identifying techniques of brief interventions and appropriate referrals. The presenters included: · Dr. Yen Dang, University of Maryland Eastern Shore · Dr. Kay Connor, University of Maryland School of Medicine · Dr. Sarah Edwards, University of Maryland School of Medicine · Mr. Patrick Patterson, Global Partner for Fathers and Families · Dr. Kutressa Lankford-Purnell, University of Maryland Eastern Shore · Dr. Sylvia McCree-Huntley, University of Maryland School of Medicine Over a hundred students from pharmacy, rehabilitation sciences, and physical therapy attended the event. Students received a certificate of participation after the event. The seminar was supported by a $500,000 grant by the Maryland Department of Health’s Infant/Early Childhood Mental Health and Parenting SOR Program headed by Dr. Lakeisha Harris, Leslie Santos, and Yen Dang.
New Pharmacy and Health Professions Coming This Fall The School of Pharmacy and Health Professions Phase I construction is set to be completed this summer with an open house on September 15, 2022. The structure hosts classrooms and class laboratories to support instructional functions. It also contains cutting-edge research labs and animal facilities that will increase research capacity across campus. There are assembly, meeting, and lounge facilities that position the School and University as a health professional resource to School of Pharmacy and Health Professions majors and foster interprofessionalism. Governor Larry Hogan, Senator Chris Van Hollen, Chancellor Dr. Jay Perman, and the University System of Maryland Board of Regents toured the construction site with the pharmacy program.
9th Annual Epilepsy Walk Written by Ashley Pete and Rebekah Torchon, PharmD Candidates
The morning of April 23, 2022 marked the ninth annual Epilepsy Stride Walk held by the Pharmacy Student Government Association (PSGA) to support research and cure. This walk was created and organized by pharmacy students to raise funds to honor the work of Dr. Jackson-Ayotunde, Richard A. Bernstein Endowed Professor. Since 2013, this walk has become PSGA’s signature event and it for the first
time since its initiation, it was held on the University of Maryland Eastern Shore’s campus. Members of the community and pharmacy students signed up and ran around campus, starting Dr. William P. Hytche gym, the Tawes Gymnasium, to the Charles R. Drew Health Center, and even the new construction Health and Pharmacy Professions building. This early morning, students were met by a representative from Citizens United for Research in Epilepsy, Brandon Laughlin, who brought souvenirs for the participants. PSGA and student volunteers worked hard to decorate the path for the runners, create a balloon arch and coordinate the successful event. Dr. Jose Balea from United Needs and Abilities shared an inspiring message and thanked the university for their continual support. The Epilepsy Stride Walk raised $700 to be split among the organizations. PSGA would like to thank Dr. Balea, Brandon Laughlin, Dr. Jackson-Ayotunde, PSGA President, Ashley Pete, the PSGA Executive Board, Dr. Tejada, and all the first and second-year pharmacy student volunteers. UMES RxTimes | Spring 2022
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Winter Drive for Somerset County
UMES' Mini Health and Wellness Festival Resumes
Written by Rebekah Torchon, Student Pharmacist, Class of 2023
Written by Ngwe Adeline Ndikum, Student Pharmacist, Class of 2024
Pharmacy students unload the vehicle with the items donated by UMES students/faculty and various local organizations.
PT and pharmacy students stretch with yoga activities during the fair.
On October 29, 2022, a strong low-pressure system swept through the Chesapeake Bay, bringing moderate to severe winds. The tropical storm brought significant flooding to Crisfield, MD, and was so damaging to the small town that some believe it was worse than the 2012 Hurricane Sandy. The only secondary school in the area, Crisfield High School and Academy with over 400 students, had students and families that were greatly affected by the storm. As the holiday season began to approach, many families still struggled with the impact of the storm. The Greek student organizations, Phi Lambda Sigma Delta Nu, Phi Delta Chi, and Kappa Psi Epsilon Nu collaborated to conduct a Winter Drive to help the students and their families have a better holiday season. The student organizations advertised to the Pharmacy School requesting donations of food items, gently used and new clothing, blankets, and other winter items for the local high school. The drive was held for about a month, and on December 15, 2021, the delivery was made to the school. The Greek student organizations were fortunate enough to receive a lunch donation from Caeser’s Pizza Palace in Princess Anne, MD, for the staff on this day. Following the drive, Dawn Mitchell, the Learning Support Specialist Pharmacy student volunteers take a reported that at photo with Dawn Mitchell, Learning least 20 students Support Specialist, and Principal, Jeff received donations. Hale of Crisfield High School. This included one student who had recently lost a parent right before the holidays and the school was looking for a way to cheer up the family. The Greek student organizations would like to thank Caeser’s Pizza Palace for so graciously donating lunch to the staff at Crisfield High School. A special thanks to Parkway Church of God for donating food items, as well as all the students and staff that provided clothing and monetary donations.
The annual Mini Health and Wellness Festival took place on March 30th, 2022 with the main objective of building interprofessional relationships between pharmacy and physical therapy students. Since 2017, the festival featured activities including nutrition, blood pressure, blood glucose, Body Mass Index (BMI), balance posture, flexibility, and alcohol/substance abuse. Fun exercises such as yoga, line dancing, jeopardy games, treadmill exercises were used to engage participants to learn more about about nutrition, HIV, Sexually Transmitted Infections, opioids, and smoking cessation. The event PT and pharmacy students was organized by Mrs. participate in disease state Lauresa Wigfall, Director prevention education. of the Department of Drug and Alcohol Prevention, Dr. Lana Sherr, Assistant Dean for Professional Affairs at the School of Pharmacy, and Dr. Mary Layshock, Assistant Professor of Physical Therapy. Samantha Snyder, Class of 2023 physical therapy student, reflected that she always thought pharmacists focused on medications but learned from the event that they also placed great emphasis on prevention efforts. Asmamaw Desta, a firstyear pharmacy student, stated that being able to interact with participants outside Somerset County was very enlightening. The event is expected to continue next year and draw more external community stakeholders to participate and promote disease state prevention efforts.
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Restore the Shore for Earth Day Written by Rebekah Torchon, Student Pharmacist, Class of 2023
Inspired by the student antiwar movement in 1969, the Wisconsin Senator, Gaylord Nelson was persuaded to bring awareness regarding air and Pictured from left to right; pharmacy students Sochima Oriaku, Besen Sanga, water pollution. and Pamela Koga placed collected The Senator began trash bags in the vehicle. to encourage the idea of teaching this on college campuses. The date April 22 was chosen as a midway point between finals and spring break to encourage students’ participation. To honor this day, Phi Lambda Sigma Delta Nu organized the event, Restore the Shore on Saturday, April 23, 2022. During this interprofessional collaboration, students from the pharmacy
and physician assistant programs walked around the Wicomico River and Downtown Salisbury, MD, to pick up trash. Students had the opportunity to collect trash on the Wicomico Health professional students from the pharmacy and physician assistant River on kayaks programs gather for a photo at the provided by faculty conclusion of the Restore the Shore event. members. Students were able to pick up 33 bags of trash to support the Earth Day mission. At the conclusion of the event, students feasted at Dr. Debenedetto’s house. Phi Lambda Sigma Delta Nu would like to thank advisors, Dr. Rich Debenedetto and Dr. Lauren Antal for their efforts in organizing the event. A special thank you to past PLS President, Alyssa Reese for her assistance with the planning, and setting up. Thank you to all the faculty, pharmacy, and physician assistant students for volunteering their time and serving the local community.
Walk For Life: The Suicide Prevention Walk Written by Rachel Thornton Large, Student Pharmacist Class of 2023
Did you know that older adults compose twelve percent of the population in the United States, yet this population accounts for eighteen percent of all deaths due to suicide? The University of Maryland Eastern Shore (UMES) School of Pharmacy student chapter of the American Society of Consultant Pharmacists (ASCP) decided to act and bring awareness to this alarming statistic. ASCP focuses on advocating, educating, and serving the needs of older adults. On April 2nd, the UMES School of Pharmacy participated in the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention’s (AFSP) “Hope Walks Here Campus Walk,” at Salisbury University. The event aimed to engage young adults in the fight to prevent
suicide and bring hope to those affected by suicide. On walk day, attendees had the opportunity to pick up honor beads, take photos, and visit vendors before completing the 5k walk. All participants that raised at least $100 received a T-shirt. Overall, the UMES School of Pharmacy ASCP team represented the school well with twelve walkers and thirteen fundraisers. The team placed fourth out of twenty-two teams in overall fundraising, raising $875 for AFSP! A huge thank you goes out to all participants and our ASCP Chapter Advisor, Dr. Rodriguez-Weller. We look forward to participating in this event again and challenge UMES to raise more than $875 for AFSP next year! UMES RxTimes | Spring 2022 11
UMES Goes Global: A Service Learning Trip to the Dominican Republic Written by Jumoke Akinola, Bertrand Akuche, Jessica Collins, Himali Gujrati, and Michelle Yang
Dominigo Colonial Zone, Salto Baiguate waterfall and Cayo arena excursion. Volunteers were able to immerse themselves into the culture and observe the differences between residing
The UMES School of Pharmacy and Health Professions team.
The UMES School of Pharmacy and Health Professions partnered with the UMES Undergraduate Honors Program for a week-long service learning trip to the Dominican Republic from March 19, 2022 to March 26, 2022. A group of 17 volunteers led by Drs. Briddell, Lane, and Dang focused the trip on educating participants about the importance of a clean and sustainable environment. The UMES team went to National Forestry School (Escuela Nacional Forestal) in Jarabacoa where they took part in service learning activities such as planting and soiling, building a gazebo for their BBQ pit, and caring for a nursery garden. Volunteers also learned about environmental issues, engaged in problem solving, and took action to improve the environment such as recycling waste materials. In addition, volunteers were able to participate in interactive activities such as trash can painting, group discussions on global problems and solutions, whitewater rafting, and hiking. Above all, the trip focused on teaching how to give back to the community, connecting and building meaningful relationships, and being a global citizen. Apart from the service work, the group also had a chance to visit cultural sites in the Dominican Republic. Some of the highlights included visiting Los Tres Ojos Caves, the Santo 12 UMES RxTimes | Spring 2022
This was my first time being a part of a service learning trip and it was a great experience. I was excited to visit the Dominican Republic and to learn more about the people and their culture. Therefore, it was great to learn about their rich history and culture. I enjoyed being able to assist the students with various projects on their campus while burning off plenty of calories from a hard day’s work. It was eye opening to see how vigorous the work is and made me even more appreciative of those who work in the background to bring us our everyday materials. I cannot wait to go on my next service learning trip, and I count myself lucky for this opportunity to have been my first one. Jumoke Akinola, PharmD Candidate
in the Dominican Republic compared to the United States. They were also able to learn about the process of manufacturing coffee by processing coffee beans at the Cafe Monte Alto Coffee Factory located in Jarabacoa. The students from School of Pharmacy and Health Professions conducted research surveys during the experience, some of which focused on COVID-19 health perceptions and beliefs, cancer prevention and assessment, and multicultural skills. Students presented their research findings at the “Global Problems, Local Solutions” research poster session held at UMES in April.
This was my second time out of the country but my first service learning trip and I have fallen in love with participating in these types of volunteer experiences. Seeing the people in their everyday lives, working, eating and being in their environment was amazing. Everyone should participate in something like this at least once in their lifetime. It is an experience I will never forget.
Students and faculty plow the field and plant sweet potatoes.
Jessica Collins, Rehabilitation Counseling
As a graduating healthcare professional this service trip was an invaluable experience to practice all the skills have been taught in the classroom. The trip further gave me the opportunity to apply those skills in a culturally sensitive and diverse setting. I’m truly fortunate to be a part of this experience, seeing how a little effort in service to others goes a long way. Bertrand Akuche, PharmD Candidate
Digging holes for ornamentation plants around the kiosk.
The entire trip was very eyeopening as I was able to immerse myself in a different culture and environment. The service trip made me come out of my comfort zone and build on my sense of independence and ability to adapt to various situations. As a PharmD candidate, I strongly encourage my underclassmen to consider volunteering for a service trip, either international or local, as the experiences and lessons learned are invaluable. Michelle Yang, PharmD Candidate
Participants pile rocks on wagons to landscape a greenhouse.
This was my first ever service and volunteering trip to an international destination. I learned about Dominican Republic’s culture, heritage, its people, food, and environment. During my time, I volunteered in various activities. It was an amazing experience, plus very enriching and full of learning. Himali Gujrati, Pharmaceutical Sciences PhD Candidate UMES RxTimes | Spring 2022 13
FACULTY HIGHLIGHTS Allen Named UMES' Chief Academic Policymaker Former pharmacy school dean promoted to provost & vice president of academic affairs
Dr. Rondall E. Allen has been picked by President Heidi M. Anderson to be the University of Maryland Eastern Shore’s next chief academic policymaker. Allen will move into the role of provost and vice president for academic affairs this summer when Dr. Nancy Niemi leaves the post to become president of Framingham (Mass.) State University. “I am thrilled to have someone with his energy, enthusiasm and experience on our leadership team,” Anderson said in an announcement across the UMES campus. Allen joined the UMES faculty in July 2015 as Dean of the School of Pharmacy and Health Professions and currently holds the title of interim vice president for strategic initiatives, a presidential-cabinet position created in October 2021. “It is an honor and a privilege to serve as the next Chief Academic Officer for the University of Maryland Eastern Shore,” Allen said. “I look forward to serving and collaborating with the faculty and staff as we endeavor to ensure the success of all of 14 UMES RxTimes | Spring 2022
our students.” Before coming to UMES, Allen was associate dean for academic quality at South University School of Pharmacy in Savannah, Ga. He also served in several administrative roles during his time at Xavier University of Louisiana’s College of Pharmacy, including director of experiential education, assistant dean for program assessment and associate dean for student affairs. Allen earned his Bachelor of Science in pharmacy from Florida A&M University, Doctor of Pharmacy from Xavier University of Louisiana and is accredited by the American Society of Health-System Pharmacists. He is a graduate of the Academic Leadership Fellows Program, the Institute for Management and Leadership in Education and the Millennium Leadership Institute. “It will be my privilege to partner with President Anderson, the faculty and the entire community as we seek dynamic solutions and collaborative partnerships for the future of UMES,” Allen said. Since last fall, Allen has been guiding implementation of UMES’ strategic plan as well as developing and delivering initiatives that represent the university’s current priorities. The latter includes crafting effective student-retention strategies, identifying the university’s niche in the 21st century higher education landscape, expanding digital learning as well as degree programs, and exploring new ways to help students find career success. “Dr. Allen’s experience, strong leadership at renowned institutions, and (his) role as a thought leader made him the clear choice,” Anderson said. “I look forward to working with him to continue our growth and progress as a premier public HBCU.”
UMES Professor is an Award-Winning Mentor Dr. Miriam C. Purnell named 2022 USM Board of Regents' Faculty Award honoree
Dr. Miriam C. Purnell, a UMES School of Pharmacy professor, is among 17 University System of Maryland peers to be recognized by the Board of Regents as a 2022 faculty award winner for mentoring. “Being awarded this honor,” Purnell said, “is truly humbling because I am surrounded by excellent mentoring role models at UMES.” The regents noted “Dr. Purnell’s commitment to mentorship goes well above academic advising. She develops and maintains strong relationships with students throughout their academic careers and beyond, from engaging in regular meetings to actively reaching out to students demonstrating signs of struggle.” Purnell, who joined the UMES faculty in June 2009, is an associate professor and chair of the Department of Pharmacy Practice and Administration. “Throughout my life, I have had people encourage me to become the best version of myself,” Purnell said. “I am privileged to work in a profession and at a university that allows me to do the same for others.”
UMES Preceptors of the Year 2021-2022 UMES Welcomes Dr. Omar Attarabeen
Dr. Omar F. Attarabeen is an Associate Professor of Pharmacy Administration at the Department of Pharmacy Practice & Administration. Before joining the University of Maryland Eastern Shore, Dr. Attarabeen worked at Marshall University School of Pharmacy as a faculty member and the Director of Assessment and accreditation. Prior to that, Dr. Attarabeen practiced pharmacy in West Virginia for several years before he completed Masters and PhD degrees in Health Outcomes and Services Research from West Virginia University School of Pharmacy. On a national level, Dr. Attarabeen is the Chair of the AACP Curriculum SIG. Relying on his experience, Dr. Attarabeen has published a number of articles in the curriculum, assessment, and global education fields, and made several presentations at local and national conferences. His research interest lies in the areas of programmatic assessment, assessment of student learning, pharmacy education, health behavior, and minorities' utilization of health care services.
Each year the Department of Experiential Education recognizes an outstanding faculty member as well as an external preceptor as Preceptor of the Year. This award is our way to honor those preceptors who have been chosen by the students for their contribution of education and clinical experience to our profession and future pharmacist. This year we have the great pleasure of presenting this honor to 3 exceptional preceptors.
APPE Preceptor of the Year Geoff Twigg, PharmD Apple Drugs | Salisbury, MD
APPE Preceptor of the Year Ken Sternfeld, RPh RXVIP Concierge
Faculty Preceptor of the Year Dana Fasanella, PharmD University of Maryland Eastern Shore UMES RxTimes | Spring 2022 15
FACULTY RESEARCH & GRANTS The DDBRT Program Continues with a Focus on COVID-19 Vaccine Hesitancy
High school students perform a vaccination administration simulation.
The Drug Discovery and Biomedical Research Training (DDBRT) Program is a partnership between the University of Maryland Eastern Shore (UMES) School of Pharmacy and High Schools in Somerset County, MD, one of the most rural and underserved areas in the State of Maryland. In the Fall of 2021, UMES received supplemental funding from the National Institute of General Medical Sciences to provide a curriculum for minority underserved high school students in Somerset County that builds upon their critical thinking, non-cognitive, and communication skills in the area of COVID-19 vaccine hesitancy. This was critical as Somerset County had the lowest COVID-19 rates in the State of Maryland coupled with many health disparities. The supplemental grant was led by Drs. Yen Dang, Adel Karara, and Anjan Nan. Fifty students from Somerset County Technical High School were chosen to begin a curriculum about COVID-19 vaccines over the course of a year. Influential leaders in Somerset County were invited to discuss common excuses for vaccine refusal and to relay the message that vaccines are safe and effective. This included presentations from pastors, healthcare professionals, teachers, and public health workers. Students also toured a COVID-19 clinic at Apple Discount Drugs to witness first-hand how patients in the community received vaccinations. The 16 UMES RxTimes | Spring 2022
students were able to inject fat pads to simulate vaccination administration. Finally, students created a public service announcement with the UMES Digital Media Studies program about why their community should be vaccinated for COVID-19.
Sexual Ed. to Mitigate Risk Reduction Among Youth in Somerset County
Students from Garland Hayward Youth Center complete the program.
Teenage pregnancies and associated consequences of sexual activity continue to be a major concern in Somerset County. Since 2019, UMES School of Pharmacy has been delivering sexual risk avoidance education workshops to afterschool programs in Somerset County to help youth develop healthy relationships. The “MAD: Making a Difference” evidence-based curriculum was implemented to youth ages 10-19 at It Takes a Village, Crisfield, and Garland Hayward Youth Center, Princess Anne. The 8-module curriculum that provides young adolescents with the knowledge, confidence and skills necessary to reduce their risk of sexually transmitted diseases, HIV and pregnancy by abstaining from sex. The program was led by Drs. Yen Dang and Sean Vasaitis. Pharmacy students also assisted in facilitating the activities as mentors including discussions, videos, and roleplaying. To date, hundreds of middle and high school students have been trained under the “MAD: Making a Difference” curriculum by UMES.
SCALE DOWN: UMES' Holistic Weight-Loss Program
Participants warm up before tai chi activities.
SCALE DOWN, a holistic university-based obesity prevention and risk mitigation program focused on best practices to reduce obesity health disparities was created for UMES faculty, staff, and students. The program combined best-practices for weight reduction to promote health and wellness among ethnically, racially, and socioeconomically diverse adults in Somerset County. Participants were encouraged to perform physical activity in the workplace through low-stress tai chi exercises and walking classes. A targeted nutrition educational series with cooking demonstrations and meal planning allowed for participants to create individualized nutrition plans. Additionally, a series of virtual educational workshops also allowed participants to increase knowledge on health and fitness about physical activity and nutrition. Participants enrolled in the program also received fitness trackers to monitor their health status throughout the program. Overall, participants reported high satisfaction levels with the SCALE DOWN program and were able to lose an average of 5 pounds. Funding was provided by the Maryland Community Health Care Resources Commission (CHRC) for the SCALE for Families Grant PCA F196N through Somerset County Health Department and led by Drs. Sean Vasaitis and Yen Dang.
Alumni Spotlight DR. KEESHA KLINE, CLASS OF 2016
Neuroscience Acute Care Pharmacist at Atrium Health Wake Forest Baptist After graduating from UMES in 2016, I began my postgraduate residency training at the Charleston Area Medical Center in Charleston, WV. I completed both my postgraduate year one (PGY1) Acute Care Pharmacy and postgraduate year two (PGY2) Critical Care Pharmacy residencies at this Level 1 trauma, tertiary referral center for the majority of southern West Virginia’s medically underserved population. From there, I followed my initial intentions to drift further south into warmer weather. My initial career began as a Neuroscience Acute Care Pharmacist in WinstonSalem, NC at Atrium Health Wake Forest Baptist (formerly known as Wake Forest Baptist Medical Center) in August of 2018. My role has evolved to the needs of our patients, but you can still find me rounding on the inpatient services on most weekday mornings. I cover Neurology Stroke, Neurology General, Epilepsy Monitoring Unit, and Otolaryngology (ENT) inpatient services. After noticing the rush of hospital discharges due to pandemic-related needs for bed availability, I recently redesigned my workday to provide a more defined coverage of the post-acute stroke clinic. I spend my afternoons, three days per week, providing transition-of-care services where I optimize secondary stroke prevention measures, medication therapy, and reduce barriers to medication access. This year, I pursued my Board Certified Pharmacotherapy Specialist (BCPS), as well as a Certified Pharmacist Practitioner (CPP) certification, which will allow me to practice collaboratively in North Carolina under a physician agreement protocol for ordering labs, monitoring outcomes, and prescribing medications. Outside of work, I have an almost two-year-old, Harrison, who has only known the world through the lens of the pandemic. It has been challenging as a working parent in healthcare, so I host a supportive community online where I share evidence-based information, working mom “hacks,” and advocate for family-oriented benefits and support in the workplace. I also enjoy family time with my husband, son, and our pets.
DR. SALEMATOU (SALEY) TRAORE- UWALAKA, CLASS OF 2016 Ambulatory Care Pharmacist at Carroll Hospital Center
Saley attended the University of Maryland Eastern Shore for both her undergraduate studies and her doctorate in pharmacy. She completed her pharmacy practice PGY 1 residency at Thomas Jefferson University Hospital in Philadelphia, PA. Through her involvement in the refugee resettlement and a men and women homeless shelter clinic, she developed a passion for serving vulnerable and disenfranchised patient populations. She is a Board-certified pharmacotherapy specialist and is currently practicing as an Ambulatory Care Clinical Pharmacist Specialist with a focus on Medication Management Program at Carroll Hospital Center in Westminster, MD. Her practice area focuses on improving outcomes for high risk patients, by identifying and preventing medication related hospitalizations and readmissions. Saley’s passion for pharmacy education has led her to launching Rezi Prep 360, a program that develops and guides student pharmacist across the country through the post graduate training application process. Guided by a practice philosophy that everyone deserves exceptional care and access to such care, she enjoys developing innovative clinical services focused on increasing access to care for the medically underserved and underrepresented. UMES RxTimes | Spring 2022 17
GRAND OPENING School of Pharmacy & Health Professions Building, Phase 1