From the Dean

As we reflect on the past year, I am filled with pride and gratitude for all we have accomplished together as a community. It has been a year of growth, innovation and celebration, and I am thrilled to share some 2024 highlights with you in this issue, including images from this year’s Dean’s Recognition Reception, where we had the pleasure of honoring the recipients of this year’s Distinguished Alumni Awards. These outstanding individuals embody the spirit of excellence and leadership that defines our school, and I am immensely proud to count them among our esteemed alumni.

In addition to the Dean’s Recognition Reception, we also had the opportunity to come together as a community at other SoP events, including the Nudelman and Katterman Lectures.

Each year, these gatherings provide invaluable opportunities for networking, learning and reconnecting with fellow alumni and friends. The energy and enthusiasm that filled the room at this year’s lectures was truly inspiring, and I am grateful for the sense of camaraderie and shared purpose that they fostered.

In both the print and digital version of this issue, you’ll find photo galleries chronicling these events. If you would like specific images, feel free to reach out to Scott Braswell (braswels@uw.edu), who will be happy to send them to you.

As we look back to celebrate our successes and chart a course for the future, it is also important to take a moment to reflect on a timely theme represented in this issue: the importance of mental health awareness in the healthcare field. The demands of our profession can be intense, and it is essential that we prioritize our own mental well-being in order to provide the best possible care for our patients, our students, our families – and ourselves.

By raising awareness, reducing stigma, and promoting access to resources and support, we can create a culture of wellness and resilience within our community. I encourage you to engage with the content of this issue, share your own experiences and insights, and reach out with any stories or topics you would like to see featured in future issues of Dawg Scripts.

Thank you for your continued support and dedication to our school and profession. Here’s to another successful year ahead!

Warm Regards,

Jay Panyam
Dean, UW School of Pharmacy

2024 Dean’s Recognition Reception

Earlier this spring, the Dean’s Recognition Reception was held at the Burke Museum, giving the School of Pharmacy an opportunity to celebrate the remarkable achievements of our most distinguished alumni. This annual event is more than just an awards ceremony – it’s a tribute to the excellence and innovation that’s driven our institution to the forefront of pharmacy education. Among the honorees were Jonathan Campbell, M.S. ’02, Ph.D. ’07, recipient of the Pharmaceutical Science and Research Award; Marianne Ivey, PharmD ’87, MPH ’92, honored with the Pharmacy Practice Award; Kathleen Pierce, PharmD ’19, who received the Early Career Award; and Frank Vincenzi, B.S., ’60, M.S. ’62, Ph.D., ’65, who was given the Legacy Award for his lifetime of achievement.

How the UWSOP fostered a passion for leadership and community involvement

Pharmacy professionals in Washington State have long been trailblazers, setting standards and pushing boundaries that have elevated the profession, and with every step, improved access to and quality of care for the public.

In 1979, Washington was one of the first states in the country to enact legislation recognizing pharmacists as providers and allowing them to prescribe as part of collaborative drug therapy agreements (CDTA).

In 1994, Washington initiated the first formalized training program for pharmacists in vaccine administration, providing the foundation for what would become a standard service in pharmacies across the country.

Pharmacists, pharmacy technicians and pharmacy students played a pivotal role in the COVID-19 vaccination effort as frontline healthcare professionals working to ensure efficient and widespread distribution of vaccines.

In 2015, Washington was once again the first state to pass legislation requiring pharmacist inclusion in health plan insurance provider networks. These advances, and others initiated in Washington State, have empowered pharmacists to take on expanded roles, improve patient outcomes, and positioned Washington State as a leader in shaping the future of our profession.

We now find ourselves at another pivotal moment for our profession. The cumulative impact of longstanding reimbursement challenges, escalating demands on healthcare systems, and ongoing global health concerns are threatening the wellbeing of pharmacy professionals and the stability of pharmacy practice across the country.

The ripple effects of these challenges impacts access to health care, retention of pharmacists in the profession – and even deters some potential prospective students from choosing to join the profession. While the challenges posed by the current conditions are daunting, the unique training, expertise and care provided by pharmacists has never been more crucial. Simply stated, pharmacists make the difference, and that difference is needed now – in all areas of healthcare and health promotion. The medication expertise, accessibility to care and health education skill of pharmacists are critical. The population is aging, the number of treatment options is increasing, and navigating the health care system safely is highly complex.

Our legacy as a leader in pharmacy practice positions Washington State to help lead the profession through these turbulent times. We have an opportunity to envision a future for the profession where pharmacists are highly engaged at all levels of care for the positive impact they have on health and medication safety.

Collaboration, advocacy, and inspiration are the secret ingredients behind the innovation in pharmacy in Washington State. We know we can achieve great things when we work together. 

We have the power to boost our visibility. Too many people don’t realize there are pharmacists in hospitals, clinics, skilled nursing facilities, emergency rooms and many other settings in which pharmacists work.

In Spring 2023, the UW School of Pharmacy Executive Advisory Council, a group composed of practice and healthcare leaders, considered the many ways pharmacists impact public health in the face of rather limited visibility of the profession, needs for advocacy in health care, and changes in workplace barriers.

Several key strategies were prioritized for action:

1. We need to establish a positive, role-focused identity. We have long-defined ourselves and each other by the building in which we practice, which has shaped how colleagues and the public view our profession. It’s time for our words to reflect our impact and actions, not place and product. This shift in perspective not only reflects the evolving nature of the profession, but also emphasizes the crucial contributions pharmacists make to improving patient outcomes across the spectrum of care.
2. We have the power to boost our visibility. Too many people don’t realize there are pharmacists in hospitals, clinics, skilled nursing facilities, emergency rooms, and the many other settings in which pharmacists work. It’s time to let them know – we make a difference in all areas of health care! Let’s greet our patients and orient them to how we can support them at every visit and in every setting.
3. We must speak up. Our advocacy for safety and efficacy is critical in a world where medications are easily accessible and care occurs within a complex maze, too often with the patient navigating the system alone and without necessary support.  There are many ways you can make a difference including through the care you provide your patients, your engagement in workplace advocacy, to the local, state and national level of professional leadership through boards such as PQAC, WSPA, or national organizations.

Together, we’ve accomplished a lot in Washington State, leaving a lasting impact for generations to come. We have more work to do to ensure patients and our communities continue to have access to the pharmacist care they deserve.

Please join us in embracing a role-focused identity, amplifying our visibility, and advocating for what’s right. We know that we will be more successful if we all work together.

This is the first installment of The Washington Pharmacy Way, an ongoing series authored by Dr. Jennifer Bacci and Dr. Peggy Odegard, and that chronicles topical issues facing the pharmacy profession. 

Balancing Act

Pharmacy, Family and the Medicine of Motherhood

In the world of pharmacy, the blend of academia and healthcare demands rigorous dedication. Through the halls of our School, a group of remarkable women navigate these demands alongside the profound responsibilities of motherhood. Worlds apart from the tender moments of bedtime stories and school drop-offs, a career in health sciences isn’t for the faint of heart. For many working mothers at the University of Washington School of Pharmacy, these realities coexist daily. Finding the balance between academic excellence, professional achievement and the responsibility of modern motherhood is like walking a tightrope. It’s the work of a lifetime, but it’s worth the effort.

Meet several extraordinary women from our School– educators, researchers, practitioners and industry thought leaders making significant contributions to the field while balancing the complexities of family life. Together, they embody resilience, passion and a relentless drive to shatter every glass ceiling that stands between them and their ascent to incredible new heights. Individually, their stories are brimming with determination and insight, offering a window into the tests and triumphs faced by working mothers in academia and healthcare. Despite the difficulties –– the hard conversations, the long nights, the boundary-setting and the self-care strategizing –– each of these women agree; you shouldn’t have to choose between building a career or building a home. In fact, with a little flexibility, a lot of grace and the courage to ask for help, you can have both.

From the lifelong journey to find balance to the critical importance of self-care and a support system you can count on, there’s no shortage of insight and encouragement from these exceptional women. Read on to be inspired by the unique challenges and profound joys that define their lives. 

Perspective is the biggest thing. Parenthood has put everything into perspective.

-Abby Winter

Early Influences and a Passion for Healthcare

For Jennie Do, Clinical Assistant Professor, the journey to healthcare began early. “I knew pretty early on – probably midway through high school – that pharmacy was going to be my career path,” she recalls. Growing up as the daughter of an immigrant, Jennie frequently accompanied her mother to medical appointments, acting as a translator. This experience piqued her curiosity about healthcare and ignited a passion for the sciences.

Abby Winter, Assistant Teaching Professor, epitomizes the passion and flexibility that a career in pharmacy offers. “For whatever reason, I had always found myself interested in healthcare,” Abby recalls, crediting her mother, a retired nurse, for sparking her interest. Abby pursued her PharmD at Drake University in Iowa, where she also earned her Master’s in Public Administration. Though she initially felt the pressure to pursue a career in hospital pharmacy, Abby found her true calling in community and ambulatory care –– settings that allowed her to engage directly with patients during her residency at Creighton University.

Pharmacy was always the first choice for Lisa Garza, Clinical Assistant Professor. As another talented pharmacist who learned by example, Lisa’s first glimpses at a career in healthcare were thanks to her mother –– a medical assistant. “I knew I was interested in healthcare because I was drawn to math and sciences. My mom’s job gave me a little bit of inside knowledge, but I didn’t want to be as pokey and proddy with people as she was.” Though she contemplated plenty of alternate career paths, nothing managed to replace pharmacy on Lisa’s internal compass. “Pharmacy felt like the best fit with my knowledge, my skills and how I want to interact with patients. I knew I’d be a critical element of the healthcare team. I considered other stuff along the way, but I just kept coming back to pharmacy. Nothing would ever displace it.”

Community means you’re surrounded by people. Your best interests are always kept at heart by those who surround you. Together, we know each other’s struggles and triumphs.

-Yvonne Lin

The Ultimate Balancing Act

Ask any of these spectacular women about work-life balance, and you’ll hear a similar sentiment:

It doesn’t exist…not in the way you’d expect, at least.

For this group, work-life balance has evolved into work-life integration — a fresh perspective on an outdated ideal that, let’s face it, was never attainable to begin with.

For Rheem Totah, Professor of Medicinal Chemistry and Associate Dean of Research and Graduate Education, work-life balance means blending her professional responsibilities with family life. “There are times when work demands more, and times when family does,” she says. “It’s a constant balancing act, and you have to be flexible and willing to adjust.”

Rheem points out the societal pressures that contribute to the pervasive guilt felt by working mothers. “There’s pressure and guilt to perform,” she says. Rheem’s advice to other mothers is clear: “Try to work on not comparing, looking inward, and making sure that we know what’s good for our family and what’s going to work for us.”

Jennie describes her experience as a constant ebb and flow. “I used to think I’d hit a perfect work-life balance, but now I realize it’s about reassessing and restructuring as needed,” she explains. This adaptability has been crucial in navigating her various roles within the profession, from her diverse roster of practice settings (inpatient, long-term acute care and community pharmacy, to name a few) to her status as faculty member in the Department of Pharmacy.

Leigh Ann Mike, Clinical Associate Professor and Assistant Director for Education at the Plein Center, echoes this sentiment. “You have to be realistic about what balance looks like at different stages of life,” she says. “It’s about finding what works for you and your family, and that changes over time.” She emphasizes the significance of mentorship and networking in her professional journey. “Having people, especially strong women and mothers who have been there, has been extremely important,” she says. This network of support and mentorship helped her navigate the complexities of career advancement while managing family life.

At the end of the day, when you ask these women, the prevailing belief in the work-life balance conversation is this: It’s challenging, but it can be done. Despite their day jobs, many working mothers successfully navigate the lion’s share of domestic duties and childcare without sacrificing their careers to pull it off. The data is clear: With supportive work environments and thoughtful policies to govern our professional settings, working mothers can advance their careers while fulfilling their roles at home. Embracing flexible work arrangements, seeking guidance from mentors and building a strong community network are keys to unlocking a newfound sense of stability. Leave the concept of work-life balance in the rearview and set your sights on work-life integration instead.

Pharmacy felt like the best fit with my knowledge, my skills and how I want to interact with patients.

-Lisa Garza

It Takes a Village

Support systems play a crucial role in the lives of these pharmacists – the same for many working mothers. For Abby, the support of her community has been invaluable despite the hurdles of nurturing a career and a new family in tumultuous times.

Abby shared the anxieties she faced when starting a new job at the School of Pharmacy while pregnant during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic. “I was starting a new job from my kitchen table in my small one-bedroom apartment where my husband also works from home,” she recounts. The isolation was palpable, and the uncertainty was compounded by the need to balance professional commitments with the early stages of motherhood. “Having my parents move to Seattle was a lifesaver… I was grateful that I had other strong women and mothers in my life to remind me that while it feels big – and it is really big in the moment – in the grand scheme of things, my current struggle will not last that long. But we would have struggled immensely without that family support,” Abby admits. Her experience with the Program for Early Parent Support (PEPS) in Seattle highlights the importance of community resources. “The families we’ve met through PEPS have become our closest friends. They’re our secondary support system”.

Leigh Ann also emphasizes the role of her colleagues and friends. “We’re all moms, so we understand what it feels like to juggle career and family,” she says. “We support each other through the tough times and celebrate the milestones together.”

For Jennifer Chang, Associate Teaching Professor, her husband’s quiet, resilient support has been crucial to her professional rise. “My husband has been such a supporter of me,” she reflects. “Providing support is his love language. And despite his hands being full as a physician with a busy practice, his actions show me that he values our careers on the same level.” Contemplating her family life further, Jennifer knew that parenthood would change her perspective as a healthcare provider, but not the way she expected. “Both of my girls are growing up in the same family, but they’re so different,” she remarks. “Seeing things from their lens and growing with them have helped me become more empathetic and understanding of how each child – and each patient – is different,” Jennifer states. The empathy developed through her experiences as a mother has profoundly influenced her professional approach, allowing her to connect with patients on a deeper level. “There’s no such thing as ‘one size fits all.”

For Yvonne Lin, Associate Professor and Assistant Dean for Academic Affairs, the intersection of career and motherhood revealed the disparities in institutional support. “We moved to Seattle when my daughter was seven months old. She was almost three when a spot opened up at UW daycare,” she remembers. “In the years since, this hasn’t improved much. There’s not enough funding, not enough space…how can we logistically provide childcare when it’s in such short supply?” Yvonne’s question holds crucial significance in an era where affordable childcare and flexible working conditions are more than just benefits – they’re necessities that allow working mothers to thrive both at home and in their careers.

Support systems play a vital role in empowering women to succeed both at work and at home. As our understanding of “the village” evolves with each new generation, access to childcare and family support can transform a working mother’s struggle to do it all into a manageable and fulfilling endeavor. By embracing these resources – by asking for help without judgement – career-driven moms can survive and thrive without feeling the pressure to excel in every aspect of an increasingly busy life.

We’re all moms, so we understand what it feels like to juggle career and family. We support each other through the tough times and celebrate the milestones together.

-Leigh Ann Mike

Self-Care Starts with Boundaries

Setting boundaries and prioritizing self-care are crucial strategies for doing it all, whether you’re a parent or not.

Jennie emphasizes the importance of clear boundaries and isn’t afraid to put hers to work. “Once I pick up the kids, I try to minimize work as much as possible,” she says. “It doesn’t always work out, but having that boundary is important for my mental health.” Jennie’s strategy for maintaining her wellbeing includes regular time for self-care, with thirty minutes of movement first thing every morning and habitual dinner dates with friends. “It’s about re-energizing to better engage and be more present during family time.”

Lisa acknowledges the fluid nature of this whole “being human” thing. In its many forms, self-care is deeply personal and unique to the individual – a lifelong journey to understand what it looks like for you. “Life changes and your needs will be constantly evolving,” Lisa reflects. “For me, I need to do self-care first thing in the morning. It starts my day off right because if I try and tuck it in anywhere else, work will push it out of the way.” At the time of this writing, Lisa looks to her journal for clarity and calming vibes. “If I can get some thoughts out on paper and slow things down a bit, that sets me up for a better day – mentally, personally and professionally.”

Despite the emergence of self-care – particularly in the wake of COVID-19 – many working moms struggle to prioritize their own needs due to societal expectations of selfless caregiving. Rarely are mothers explicitly asked to abandon themselves in the name of being a “good mom,” but the pressure is there, lurking between the lines of comparison and a laundry list of cultural standards from a bygone age. The result? An impossibly heavy mental load for mothers – many who feel like they’re falling short.

“There’s this image of an ideal mother who puts everybody and everything before herself – because that’s what mothers are supposed to do,” reflects Leigh Ann. “I had to change the narrative.” Leigh Ann sees her career as an opportunity to set the example for her teenage sons. “My children need to see that women are accomplished professionals.” From her perspective, lessons like these will have a greater impact than what she could provide at home as a full-time caregiver. “My sons need to witness the fact that women have successful careers so when they get older it won’t be a shock to them. That example is going to serve them better in their lives.”

Professional Challenges and Resilience Despite It All

Starting a new job while pregnant presented unique challenges for Abby. “It was scary to start a job knowing I’d be taking leave soon after,” she says. Yet, with the support of her colleagues and strong female mentors, she managed to navigate this transition successfully. “In the grand scheme of things, a few months off – compared to the potential length of my career – wouldn’t be that impactful,” she was reminded by her mentors, which helped put things in perspective.

Leigh Ann highlights the importance of mentorship and networking in career advancement. “I’ve been lucky to have mentors who guided me through various roles and helped me find opportunities that fit my skills and interests,” she says. This support network has been crucial in balancing her career aspirations with her family responsibilities. Rheem shares a similar sentiment. “Mentorship has been invaluable in my career,” she says. “It’s not just about professional advice, but also about navigating the personal challenges that come with being a working mother.”

For Lisa, her transition to motherhood was a beautiful upheaval, leaving her to build a mosaic with the pieces of a past life. “Having a child broke the world I had, and I had to reorganize it,” she says. “In those first three months, my kiddo had reflux. The nights were long, and I was on fumes. I felt like I was failing. I had to decide what I could and couldn’t do. It was a mental reorganization more than anything… It was tough, but you have to remember it’s not forever.”

Mentorship and Networking

These accomplished women have valuable advice for others striving to balance career and family, now and in the future. “Be kind to yourself and set realistic expectations,” Jennie advises, emphasizing the importance of self-compassion. “Aim for good enough rather than perfection,” she adds, pointing to the pressure working mothers often place on themselves. Abby adds, “Build a strong support network and communicate openly with your partner and colleagues.” Underscoring the value of an open-door policy, Abby also had this to offer: “Having a network of rock-solid support and transparent communication is essential. You’ve got to find the balance that works best for you,” she says. “It helps you navigate the complexities of balancing a demanding career with family responsibilities.”

Leigh Ann stresses the importance of mentorship and networking. “Don’t be afraid to seek out mentors who can guide you,” she says. “And make sure to build a network of supportive colleagues and friends who understand your journey.”

For Yvonne, networking has been key to finding new opportunities on her terms. “I had the opportunity to work with people outside of my dissertation – like on side projects – throughout my academic career. That’s where those new opportunities came about that broadened my interest.” At the end of the day, networking can be the first step in community building for meaningful, human connections. In Yvonne’s own words: “Community means you’re surrounded by colleagues and friends. Your best interests are always kept at heart by those who surround you. Together, we know each other’s struggles and triumphs.”

Mentorship and networking are particularly crucial for women working in fields where they’ve been historically underrepresented. These relationships offer valuable career guidance and emotional support, empowering women to balance their professional and personal lives effectively. Through these supportive connections, women gain insights, encouragement, and practical advice to overcome unique challenges and achieve their goals.

The stories of these working mothers at the School of Pharmacy represent the strength, resilience and mental fortitude needed to thrive in demanding careers while raising a family and building a legacy. Their journeys remind us of the importance of self-compassion, a fundamental support system and the continuous reassessment of priorities.

As these women continue to dismantle barriers and shatter glass ceilings, they redefine what it means to be a professional and a parent, and their stories serve as a point of inspiration and meaningful connection for others navigating similar paths. In the words of Abby Winter, “Perspective is the biggest thing. Parenthood has put everything into perspective.”

2024 Phil & Sandra Nudelman Lecture

This year’s Nudelman Lecture focused on concerns about mental and behavioral health in the healthcare field, including pharmacy. Moderated by our own Clayton English, the lecture featured several specialists from UW who served as panelists and discussed highlighting current and future policy solutions to address health worker burnout and the mental and behavioral health crisis affecting society.  Panelists included: Anne Browning, Associate Dean for Well-Being; Charisse Williams, Assistant Director/Training Director, UW Counseling Center; and Jurgen Unutzer, Professor and Chair of Psychiatry, UW Medicine. A special thank you to event participants who contributed to the SoP’s Student Wellness Fund. We raised over $1,000 for vital resources and support that promote the well-being and academic success of our students.

An Alumni Legend’s Legacy

UWSoP alum, Frank Vincenzi, reflects on a storied career.

Frank Vincenzi’s journey in the field of pharmacy is nothing short of legendary. His story is one of passion, perseverance and pioneering research. As we reflect on Frank’s accomplishments, we’re reminded of the transformative power of education and mentorship – both of which have been central themes in his journey. Still, when it comes to Frank’s resume of achievements, one prevailing idea rises above the rest: Curiosity. Turns out, the bravery to ask questions and inquire further is the first prerequisite for a lifetime of discovery.

Frank’s journey began in the late 1950s at the University of Washington, where the School of Pharmacy was located on the third floor of Bagley Hall. Under the tutelage of revered faculty members, Frank’s passion for science was ignited. He was profoundly influenced by educators like Seymour B. Rabinovitch, Professor of Chemistry, who could lecture for 50 minutes without a single pause. Dr. Nathan Hall – who once awarded Frank with a B instead of an A in the spirit of “taking him down a notch” – taught Frank the value of humility and continually striving for excellence.

One of the most pivotal figures in Frank’s education was John T. Elder, a senior graduate student and an excellent storyteller who later became a faculty member in the Department of Pharmacology. Elder’s magnetic personality and dedication to teaching inspired Frank to choose pharmacology over medicinal chemistry for his graduate studies—a decision that would shape his entire career. “John’s charisma was a major factor in my choice of pharmacology rather than medicinal chemistry as an area for graduate study,” Frank recalls. “At the time, it was a very difficult choice.”

Frank’s undergraduate years were marked by his involvement in groundbreaking research. Under the guidance of the UW’s Varro Tyler in the Drug Plant Laboratory, he explored the potential of growing Claviceps purpurea in tissue culture, a project that hinted at the exciting possibilities of pharmacological research. His work in medicinal chemistry with Professor Alain Huitric further honed his research skills, culminating in a publication co-authored with William F. Trager – a name synonymous with excellence in pharmacological research.

Upon entering graduate training in pharmacology, Frank joined the lab of Theodore C. West, where he explored the electrophysiology of the sino-atrial (SA) node. This research led to significant discoveries about autonomic innervation of the heart, refuting the then-popular hypothesis of Burn and Rand regarding neurotransmitter release.

Frank’s postdoctoral journey took him to Bern, Switzerland, where he worked at the National Science Foundation alongside Hans J. Schatzmann, a pioneer in the study of digitalis and membrane transport. This experience not only enriched his scientific knowledge but also instilled in him the importance of meticulous research and manuscript preparation — a lesson he learned through rigorous rewrites and reviews.

Despite Frank’s many contributions to science, his greatest impact has been in the lives of his students. In 1980, Frank became a tenured faculty member in the Department of Pharmacology at the University of Washington School of Medicine. His primary teaching responsibility was to undergraduate pharmacy students, guiding them through a year-long series of courses in pharmacology.

Frank Vincenzi’s legacy is a testament to the power of education, mentorship and the relentless pursuit of knowledge. His contributions have advanced the field of pharmacology and inspired countless students and researchers to push the boundaries of what’s possible.

Watch a video of the 2024 Alumni Legends recipients, including an interview featuring Frank.

Dean’s Recognition Reception 2024

Amplify Your Impact

Submit your story idea for Dawg Scripts

Whether you’re an alum, a current student, faculty or staff, your experiences and achievements deserve to be seen. Your work is at the heart of our mission. We can’t wait to showcase all that you bring to our campus community and the world at large.

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Become An Alumni Ambassador!

Inspired by your work as a pharmacist? Looking to tell the world how you make a difference every day? Share your vision with future Husky Pharmacists!

• Who we’re looking for: UWSoP alums eager to impact future pharmacists
• Why we need you: We need your help to drum up excitement about a career in pharmacy and share your vision for the future of the profession
• What you’ll do: You’ll engage future Husky Pharmacists through career fairs, short videos and 1:1 mentorship
• When we need you: The choice is yours! We’ll share opportunities to engage with students –– you choose what fits your schedule and your interests

Sign up to become an Alumni Ambassador!