Pharmacy OU Pharmacy · PDF fileA Publication for Alumni and Friends of the University of...

OU College of Pharmacy

College of PharmacyOU PharmacyFall 2012

A Publication for Alumni and Friends of the University of Oklahoma College of Pharmacy

successful leadership: Inspiration

That Ignites


There are many authors and opinions in the field of leadership and countless

books and articles on the subject. You can do an Internet search for “outstanding

leadership” and you’ll see links for topics like “The 10 Traits of Outstanding

Leadership” or “Seven Qualities of an Outstanding Leader,” or even “Five Top Tips for

Outstanding Leadership.” However, I believe there is more to successful leadership

than simply following a prescribed set of tips or techniques.

Leadership is definitely inspiration that ignites. It’s evident in the notable

achievements of our college faculty. It’s evident with our alumni who are making a

difference in their practices and in their neighborhoods. It’s evident with our staff who

view even recreational activities as an opportunity to lead. And it’s definitely evident

with our students who find creative avenues to give back to the community and the

profession and, in the process, learn valuable leadership lessons.

A quote from John Quincy Adams, America’s sixth president, puts leadership in the

right perspective, “If your actions inspire others to dream more, learn more, do more

and become more, you are a leader.”

We lead to inspire.

JoLaine R. Draugalis, R.Ph., Ph.D., F.A.Ph.A., F.A.S.H.P.

Dean and David Ross Boyd Professor

From the Dean

Dr. JoLaine R. Draugalis


Front CoverThis sculpture, “Crimson & Cream,” was created by Ally H. Richardson,

an abstract artist. She spent her career in critical nursing and as

a clinical specialist teaching through the United States, Canada,

Germany, Mexico and Australia. After retiring, she has dedicated

herself full time to her art, which she had nurtured through the years

since high school. Ally’s works include photography, custom abstract

paintings, indoor/outdoor metal walls pieces and original metal

sculptures from 2 to 7 feet in height.

Richardson states, “Crimson & Cream began with my appreciation for

OU and the energy that surrounds it. Some can immediately see the

abstract OU representation, while others need it pointed out. A true

fan can see OU everywhere it appears!”

The sculpture was donated to the College of Pharmacy this past

summer by Phil A. Martin, class of 1952 alumnus. It is proudly

displayed in the Dean’s Office.

Successful Leadership:

Inspiration That Ignites

OU College of Pharmacy 1

Table of Contents

OU COLLEGE OF PHARMACY Magazine Fall 2012

President, University of OklahomaDavid L. Boren

Senior Vice President and ProvostOU Health Sciences CenterM. Dewayne Andrews, M.D., MACP

Dean, OU College of PharmacyJoLaine R. Draugalis, R.Ph., Ph.D

Director of Development, OU College of PharmacyRex Urice, J.D.

Writer/EditorPaula A. Meder

PhotographySimon Hurst Photography

Layout and DesignBramlett & Associates Multimedia

2 Igniting inspired learning-focused elective tracks.

5 Pharmacy month develops leadership skills.

8 Spirit Leaders at AACP!

9 The Million Hearts Initiative.

10 Jane Langston obituary

Faculty News.11 Recognizing Fellows

13 Dr. Britton

14 Faculty Changes

15 Dr. Medina

16 New Faculty

16 Vaccine against West Nile Virus being developed.

Research News. 19 AADE Award

20 Current Projects

21 Biomarker Reception

22 Celebrating 50 Years – Oklahoma Poison Control Center.

Students and Alumni.23 Leadership Retreat

24 Welcome P-1 Students

25 Winning makes work even more fun

26 Compounding Teams

27 David Gilliland

28 Alumni President Tim Anderson

29 Mark Your Calendar

OU College of Pharmacy is published annually by the OU College of Pharmacy. For more information, contact:

Paula Meder, Sr. Admin. Mgr.OU College of PharmacyPO Box 26901Oklahoma City, OK 73126-0901(405) 271-6593, ext. 47271Website: pharmacy.ouhsc.edu

This University in compliance with all applicable federal and state laws and regulations does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, genetic information, age (40 or older), religion, disability, political beliefs, or status as a veteran in any of its policies, practices, or procedures. This includes but is not limited to admissions, employment, housing, financial aid, and educational services. Copies of this magazine were printed at no cost to the taxpayers of the State of Oklahoma. © 2012 University of Oklahoma

“Successful leadership: Inspiration that ignites” aptly describes these students (dubbing themselves the “Magnificent Seven”) who will graduate in spring 2013 with a leadership designation on their diploma.


In 2010, the OU College of Pharmacy implemented focused elective

tracks in its professional program in the areas of leadership

development, psychiatric, pediatric and nuclear pharmacy practice

after review and approval of curricula, policies and procedures

by the curriculum committee, college administration and the

university. These focused elective tracks provide an opportunity for

students to develop pharmacy practice skills within special patient

populations or develop general leadership skills, supporting college

efforts to stimulate interest in continued education and professional

development after graduation.

Each track consists of at least 16 hours composed of a minimum of

eight hours of focused advanced professional pharmacy experiences

and eight hours of elective didactic coursework approved for

the specific track. Admitted students must be in good academic

standing and are selected by a committee that conducts interviews

after reviewing applicants’ curricula vitae and essays outlining

career goals. Students accepted into a track are given preference

for enrollment in required coursework. Successful students in

leadership, psychiatric and pediatric tracks receive a “degree option”

designation on their diplomas, while nuclear-focused track students

receive the designation of “elective track-nuclear” on their transcript.

To date, 25 students have been admitted to a track, and two have

graduated, both receiving acceptance into a PGY1 pharmacy residency

and both with plans to advance within their practice area of interest.

Leadership Elective Track“Leaders are made, not born,” according to Dr. Alan Spies,

co-director of the leadership track. “At the OU College of Pharmacy, the

distinction is made that leadership is about service and serving others.

In this track, both individual and group dynamics are emphasized.

Students must engage in critical self-reflection; identifying strengths,

weaknesses and blind spots. The program’s principles are illustrated

by the acronym SERVANT: service, excellence, relational, visionary,

authentic, navigate and transform. Each participant of the leadership

degree track is charged with transforming the world and sharing their

vision and gifts with others. The program believes that each person has

a unique contribution to make and that leadership is a lifelong process.”

This track includes 10 hours of didactic training during the P2 through

P4 years. Two rotations composed of one on-campus (with all the other

degree option students) and one rotation off-campus are “tailored” to

meet the student’s specific interest areas. Interested students apply

during the second semester of their P2 year.

Focused Elective Tracks Accommodate Student Interests

Igniting Inspired Learning

Leaders Who InspireThe Millwood Health Falcons Project

During my leadership class in the spring of 2011, we developed a program

and its curriculum, and identified a school that would benefit from this type of

program. Millwood Middle School in Oklahoma City accepted our program, and

we spent time every month delivering the concept of “Millwood Health Falcons”

to a group of 30 eighth-graders. The curriculum topics included introduction to

the program and pharmacy, wellness, ethics, substance abuse, introduction into

health care, looking at different careers in health care (which included a field

trip to the College of Pharmacy), and future career planning.

Callie Jean (Thomas) Hataway, Class of 2013

Continued on page 3.

2



Nuclear Pharmacy Elective TrackHaving the distinction as a professional school with an operating

nuclear pharmacy onsite allows the OU College of Pharmacy to

provide comprehensive educational programs for both professional

and graduate students in its region. This focused elective track

allows students with an interest in the safe and effective use of

radioactive drugs for diagnosis and therapy to get a “jump start” on

a career in nuclear medicine. Additionally, professional pharmacy

students can work toward an Authorized Nuclear Pharmacist status

or follow other paths such as the graduate M.S. and Ph.D. programs.

Pediatric Pharmacy Elective TrackThe OU College of Pharmacy remains notable as a professional

school with seven clinicians specially trained in pediatrics. These

faculty members maintain active practice sites in acute care and

ambulatory care settings. While most professional programs lack any

trained practitioners in this area, the OU College of Pharmacy is able

to offer both didactic and experiential training in pediatric pharmacy.

Students interested in pediatric pharmacy recognize that children are

at significant risk for medication errors, including medication dosing

errors, as compared to other populations. With the knowledge that

pharmacists can play a vital role in preventing medication errors

in this population, students can apply for the pediatric pharmacy

elective track in the fall of their second year of the professional

program. The pediatric track can accept up to six students per class.

A few of the experiential opportunities offered include pediatric

ambulatory care, general pediatrics, pediatric critical care, pediatric

hematology/oncology, pediatric nephrology, and pediatric research.

3



Continued from page 2.

Psychiatric Pharmacy Elective TrackThis focused elective track enhances knowledge in the area of

psychiatric pharmacy. Composed of core elective courses, candidates

must complete nine credit hours. This program also includes

participation in psychiatric pharmacy advanced pharmacy practice

experience selective rotations.

To date, four students have graduated from this track; all were

selected for first-year residency programs.

Students who complete this program will be able to:

• Explain the pharmacology of antidepressants and antipsychotic

agents;

• Explain the neurobiological principles of substance use and abuse;

• Critically review and evaluate the literature as it relates to

psychiatric pharmacy;

• Explain the findings and implications of landmark trials for

psychiatric medication;

• Understand the psychosocial and economic implications of under-

diagnosed and/or undertreated psychiatric disorders;

• Implement advanced practice skills into practice.

Igniting InspirationEach focused elective track at the college is aimed at assisting

students in recognizing their unique contribution as professional

pharmacists. Whether it’s through leadership, nuclear pharmacy,

pediatric pharmacy or psychiatric pharmacy, these graduates will have

many opportunities for an inspired career.

One of my favorite moments with the students happened at the

beginning when we presented them with the task of naming the

program. Last spring before the program started at Millwood,

our leadership group of 15 pharmacy students spent more time

trying to decide on a name for the project than it did on any other

development issue we encountered. When we asked the students

at Millwood, they suggested the name “Health Falcons” within a

matter of minutes. At that point I knew it was going to be a fun and

interesting time with this group of students!

Our main goal was to encourage students to consider a career in a

health care profession while teaching them basic health, wellness

and leadership skills. We also wanted to instill in them a sense of

community and a desire to be a good role model to those around

them. We challenged the students to excel in their environment and

encouraged them to begin planning to make their dreams a reality.

When asked in the first session what they want to be when they

grow up, many either didn’t know or wanted to do something in

either a health-related field or athletics. A few students said careers

like a lawyer, anesthesiologist and pediatrician. Over the course of

the program as we presented them with information about what it

takes to become a pharmacist, or any other health care professional,

they asked many questions about schooling, salaries, and exactly

what that professional does in his or her job. We then asked the

students during the final session whether their career ambitions

had changed since the beginning of the program. Honestly, some of

their answers did not change. A few students said they see a health


OU College of Pharmacy4


Vivian Nguyen

Learning to LeadI decided to enter the pediatric degree option after learning about this

possibility in the “Introduction to Pediatric Pharmacotherapy” course.

It was an easy decision to make because I felt that having a general

knowledge and understanding about the pediatric population would help

shape me into a well-rounded pharmacist.

I anticipate that the pediatric degree option will set a strong foundation

for what I should expect in clinical practice and will help to develop my

capabilities for recognizing the important differences between adult and

pediatric populations.

Looking back, this degree option has provided me with many valuable

opportunities not only through my experiences from working with

pediatric patients, but also through my interactions with the pediatric

faculty. They have served as great role models and mentors during my

time in pharmacy school.

I feel that the degree option has enabled me to become an effective

leader by teaching important skills that can be applied in both the

professional and personal setting. Leading by example, encouraging your

peers, and being approachable and honest are some of the examples of

what I have learned by being a part of the pediatric degree option.

– Vivian NguyenOU College of Pharmacy

care career as a future possibility. Several of them told us that

they wanted to do what was needed to pursue a career in health

care. This was an overall goal we wanted to meet and felt that we

achieved it over the course of the program.

The Millwood Health Falcons program

defined my years at OU College of

Pharmacy. Being able to be part of

a leadership group who designed a

program with the potential to influence

eighth-graders and their future was

such an honor! It has indelibly changed

who I am as a leader and as a

contributing member of my community.

I want to influence those around me

to be good community members and

have opportunities to do so regardless

of their circumstances.

I was the project chairman for Millwood Health Falcons and

participated in every aspect from development to implementation.

This experience has taught me to be confident in my ability to

lead others, both in the classroom and working with my peers.

I have learned to be understanding and patient in realizing that

no matter how much you concentrate on the details, sometimes

things don’t go exactly as planned. I have also learned the value of

surrounding yourself with the right people. In doing so, things can

fall flawlessly into place and have outcomes beyond your highest

expectations.

A Millwood student asked me if I would remember them. I can

honestly say that I will always remember them. Our program

definitely influenced this unique group of students; but equally so,

those involved in the leadership track at OU College of Pharmacy

grew as influential role models to the Millwood students.

– Callie Jean Hataway


American Pharmacists Month at the college is four weeks of excitement in October. Planning begins in the summer and continues until the very last minute of September. You can almost hear the ticking of the clock as students race to make final details for the different scheduled programs and events.

The calendar of events became so crowded several years ago that students decided to

concentrate on a four-pronged definition of what it meant to build a healthy community:

community, compassion, philanthropy and education. Each week in the month of October

focuses on one of these four areas.

All students involved with the planning and execution of the month’s activities learned a lot

and honed in on developing their leadership skills. Each Pharmacy Month includes at least

10 chairs on the two campuses. Some of the activities are shared and some are unique to

a specific region. All these details mean a lot of communication and coordination must take

place among the leaders.

Here are a few comments from Pharmacy Month chairs in past years.“I was the Tulsa

compassion chair my P-2 and P-3 years,” said Haley Barrett, P-4 student. “We specifically

organized the Homeless Health Fair at the Tulsa Day Center, and this event reinforced the

fact that I enjoy directing volunteer work. For me, it was also a great way to get to know

various people in the college. I am a busy mom of two boys, and therefore not deeply

involved in other organizations. This was a great way for me to meet underclassmen and

actually get to know some of them quite well.”

“My husband lost his job about a month after I turned in my application for pharmacy school. It became apparent very quickly that we could not afford to stay in our home. We made the decision to move in with his family so that I could finish school. Sitting at the Tulsa Day Center during Pharmacy Month and seeing people with their children made me very emotional. It was deeply moving for me to realize that we would have picked our home over our future if we did not have family support. These events can help put things into perspective for pharmacy students. We truly are fortunate to have the ability and resources to go to school and make better lives for ourselves for our families.”

- Haley Barrett, Class of 2013

5

Pharmacy MonthDevelops Leadership Skills

OU College of PharmacyContinued on page 6.


Student Heather Warren commented, “I really enjoyed being a part

of a larger team with a huge goal in mind – of enhancing the view of

pharmacy (both from the community’s viewpoint and also from the

college side). Compassion is very important in a career of pharmacy!

I helped to plan Compassion Week for Pharmacy Month in both 2010

and 2011, along with co-chair Jennifer Steward. It was an enriching

experience as a leader to work with my colleagues and professors

in raising money to benefit the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society to

promote research and serve local families needing support during

health crises related to blood disorders. This project worked in

synergy with my personal fundraising goals for LLS as a part of Team

in Training program, where I was able to raise money as I trained for a

local triathlon with others in Oklahoma City.”

“I learned to beg, plead and cajole in multiple forms as education chair

in Oklahoma City for Pharmacy Month 2011,” joked Minh Truong, P-4

student. “Being the education chair was a bit more challenging than

I first thought. I went out of my comfort zone and recruited a speaker

for the Education Week presentation. I learned that, by using the

strengths of my peers, I can lead successfully.”




Heather Warren, Class of 2013

Minh Truong, Class of 2013

“I was blessed to discover that OU College

of Pharmacy works day in and day out

for larger purposes than just making

better pharmacists. Our school wants

us to learn to serve our community with

compassionate hearts.”

- Heather Warren, Class of 2013

“Being education chair let me know how

much the educators at the college work

to provide a strong knowledge base for

the students. Teachers truly want students

to succeed and their goal is for everyone

to grow and become professionals.”

– Minh Truong, Class of 2013

Needless to say, teamwork is a key component in developing

leadership skills. For Minh, he learned to appreciate the skills each

committee person brought to the table. “This experience allowed

me the opportunity to see how enjoyable it is to have a team work

together and deliver a good product. Serving as education chair

solidified my desire to be a team leader among my pharmacy

colleagues in the future,” he said.

The emphasis in “Community Week,” one of the four prongs of the

college’s approach to Pharmacy Month, concentrates on students,

faculty and staff making an impact in their community by donating

time and/or money. Kendall Novak, P-4 student, served as chair

for Community Week in Pharmacy Month 2011. She focused on

supporting the troops from Oklahoma through helping out Blue

Star Mothers, an organization that collects and sends donations

overseas to the troops. “The college donated two boxes of goodies,

$120 in cash and several print magazines. I learned so much in

OU College of Pharmacy 7OU College of Pharmacy

Pharmacy month 2012 student leaders in Oklahoma City: (first row) Jami Johnson, Jared Schaefer, Renee Anderson; (second row) Alex McNeely, Linzie Roberts, Lance Thompson, Tobi Olusola, Ardath Mitchell and Naomi Kozlowski.

Kendall Novak, Class of 2013



“I was so glad to be part of this experience.

It’s allowed me to improve my communication and

organization skills, which I will continue to take with

me in the future. It’s allowed me the opportunity to

lead by example. I also believe this experience has

formed the platform I use to further become the

leader I want to become in the future.”

– Kendall Novak, Class of 2013

communicating and building relationships with faculty and new people in general.

My organization skills got a solid workout by scheduling Judy Burton, a Blue Star

Mother, by handling donation boxes and communicating to everyone at the college.

This whole week gave me the opportunity to be personally involved by donating my

own time and goods.”

Stephen Covey, the motivational writer and leader who died in July, stated, “I am

personally convinced that one person can be a change catalyst, a transformer in any

situation, any organization… it requires vision, initiative, patience, respect, persistence,

courage and faith to be a transforming leader.” Pharmacy Month student leaders have

proven this every year.

OU College of Pharmacy8 OU College of Pharmacy


Pharmacy month 2012 student leaders in Tulsa: (first row) Suzanne Boyd, Lindy Knight, Amanda Guerrero; (back row) Chris Pack, Philip Looper and Kyle Long.

If you heard chants of “Boomer Sooner” or saw the crimson pride

exhibited on clothing and accessories in Kissimmee, Fla., during the

month of July, chances are that you attended the annual meeting

of the American Association of Colleges of Pharmacy. It was no

surprise to us that OU was named winner of the Spirit Award!

Having pride in your college is important, but why ask every college

attendee to participate in this particular competition? Eric Johnson,

Spirit Leaders at AACP!

associate dean for finance and administration, explains: “The spirit of

competition is an internal motivator in all of us, and it’s compounded

with each additional member on your team. We definitely had a

mindset to win this competition. We wanted everyone to know we’re

proud to be from Oklahoma. Besides, it was fun wearing our OU gear

and chanting as if we were at a Sooner football game.”

Boomer Sooner!


How do you prevent 1 million heart attacks and strokes over the next five years? The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services launched the

Million Hearts initiative to assist in this endeavor. In turn, the National

Association of Chain Drug Stores Foundation has granted funding to

15 schools of pharmacy (including Oklahoma) to help raise awareness

of the initiative. Dr. Jane Wilson, associate professor and associate

dean for student affairs, and Dr. Michael Smith, associate professor

and assistant dean for Tulsa Operations in the University of Oklahoma

College of Pharmacy submitted the original proposal.

“Team Up, Pressure Down” is a multidisciplinary endeavor that

raises public awareness about blood pressure control, cholesterol

management and smoking cessation. During the summer, the OU

College of Pharmacy submitted a competitive proposal to the National

Association of Chain Drug Stores Foundation to promote the initiative

in multi-geographic locations by collaborating with community groups

in both Tulsa and Oklahoma City during the month of September.

The college partnered with the YMCA-Midtown in Tulsa and the

Lennie Marie Tolliver Center adult day care center in Oklahoma City.

The outreach initiative of the college targeted minority groups who

The Million Hearts InitiativeTeam Up, Pressure Down With OU College of Pharmacy

often experience health disparities with regard to cardiovascular

disease and stroke.

Another location in Oklahoma City that was reached by the college

was Integris Health’s ninth annual Men’s Health University. This event

was held Sept. 15 at Crossroads Mall in conjunction with the South

Oklahoma City Chamber of Commerce Tailgate Party Trade Show.

Men’s University is a series of events designed to educate men

and their loved ones on the importance of men taking care of

their health.

OU Pharmacy student members of the Student National

Pharmaceutical Association delivered the program, which included

a three-component approach to raise awareness of heart disease

and stroke prevention: educational materials; blood pressure and

cholesterol screening; and patient health information. SNPhA faculty

advisers Dr. Michelle Lamb (Tulsa) and Drs. Lourdes Planas and

Winter Smith (Oklahoma City) were the primary preceptor faculty

members overseeing the student activities.

In collaboration with the faculty preceptors, a pharmacy student

leader on each campus – Philip Looper (Tulsa) and Naomi Kozlowski

(Oklahoma City) — managed the logistics of the programs in their

respective city. Both students are enrolled in the leadership degree


OKC team members are Elizabeth Rathgeber, Dr. Winter Smith, Dr. Lourdes Planas, Ruby Oh, Lindy Lindsey and Naomi Kozlowski.




option program at the college, which prepared them to organize

and lead the students. Members from the OU chapter of the Student

National Pharmaceutical Association who were involved included

Lindy Lindsey, Ruby Oh and Elizabeth Rathgeber. Nursing and

medical students also were invited to participate in promoting the

Million Hearts initiative.

According to Dr. Michael Smith, “Our goal was to stimulate interest

among the community to engage in wellness behaviors. This project

allowed us the perfect opportunity to extend our outreach efforts into the

month of October as part of our college’s annual Pharmacy Month activities

to promote the profession of pharmacy.”

“The presence of our pharmacy students in leading the Million Hearts

Initiative in Oklahoma informed the public of the role of pharmacists in

screening, wellness and health promotion,” said Wilson, adding, “Our

students are definitely learning the value of being a leader in health care.”

Tulsa team members are Philip Looper, Dr. Michael Smith and Dr. Michelle Lamb.

Starting as the chief records clerk in the old Pharmacy Student Services house on NE 14th Street in 1981,

Jane Langston worked at the OU College of Pharmacy until her retirement on May 8, 2008. Jane passed away

on Dec. 3, 2011.

She impacted the lives of many faculty, staff and students and will be remembered at the college for her

friendly smile, speedy answers to any question and gentle hugs. Students also fondly bestowed on her some

clever distinctions, ranging from the “Radar O’Reilly Award” (after the character in the TV series “M*A*S*H*”

who heard incoming helicopters before anyone else) to honorary dean. Alumni often remarked how she would

still know them years later, call them by name and ask about specific details regarding their life and family!

More than 2,000 students earned their bachelor of science degree and/or Pharm.D. during Langston’s time at

the college. Jane fondly remembered all of them as her “kids.”

Obituary

Jane Langston March 2, 1955-Dec. 3, 2011

Jane’s retirement party in 2008.


Recognized Leadership OU Pharmacy Faculty Nationally Recognized Through Fellow Status

11OU College of Pharmacy

and students,” she said. “I continue to try to provide leadership to

colleagues in the college and around the country in the pursuit of high

standards in practice and scholarly endeavors.”

Hagemann became an

ACCP Fellow in 2010 and a

PPAG Fellow in 2012.

“I was encouraged to apply

to both organizations by

my colleagues, who knew

of my clinical and research

contributions, and I was

very flattered. The PPAG

program has only been

around for four years, so

I considered it an honor

that I was asked to apply

for consideration,” she

said. “Being chosen as a

Fellow indicates that my

work is recognized on a

national/international level

There is no doubt that achieving the status of “Fellow” brings a sense

of pride and accomplishment. Most Fellow designations are not

honorary or bestowed, but earned. To be recognized as a Fellow is the

cumulative result of hard work and contributions to one’s profession.

The OU College of Pharmacy is proud to have eight faculty members

with Fellow designations from such professional organizations as the

American Pharmacists Association, the American Society of Health-

System Pharmacists, the Pediatric Pharmacy Advocacy Group and the

American College of Clinical Pharmacy.

Drs. Beth Resman-Targoff, Tracy Hagemann and Toni Ripley are ACCP

fellows. According to the ACCP website, “Fellowship in the American

College of Clinical Pharmacy recognizes excellence in the practice

and science of clinical pharmacy. Fellowship is awarded to individuals

who have made sustained contributions to the College (ACCP) and

who have demonstrated exceptional performance in clinical pharmacy

practice and/or research.” Resman-Targoff became a Fellow of ACCP

in 2005 when there were only two other pharmacists with FCCP status

practicing in the state of Oklahoma. “It was definitely a milestone in

my career. It was gratifying to receive this validation of my almost 30

years of developing clinical practice and promoting it to pharmacists


Dr. Susan Conway, Dean JoLaine Draugalis, Dr. Mark Britton, Dr. Tracy Hagemann, Dr. Don Harrison and Dr. Beth Resman-Targoff have been recognized as Fellows in professional pharmacy organizations.

Dr. Toni Ripley, Pharm.D.



by my own peers. It’s the highest distinction a professional member can

receive. It has been a very rewarding and humbling experience.”

Ripley was recently recognized as an ACCP Fellow in October at the

organization’s annual meeting in Kissimmee, Fla. “It is an incredible

honor to be awarded Fellow of ACCP. I was introduced to this

organization as a student and resident, and invested my time into this

organization because I believed in its mission. To have this organization,

in turn, support me by awarding me with this recognition, is humbling.

I’m honored to be included in a group of such extraordinary individuals,”

she said.

The criteria for attaining Fellow status with ASHP include sustained

practice excellence in health-system pharmacy for at least 10 years;

contributions to the total body of knowledge in pharmacy practice;

involvement in and commitment to education of practitioners and

others; and demonstration of active involvement and leadership in

professional activities. If selected, one’s title is distinguished with a

“FASHP” after the pharmacy designation.

According to Dr. Susan Conway, who received “Fellow” recognition

from ASHP in June 2010, this designation represented her service to

the Oklahoma Society of Health-System Pharmacists, ASHP and the

profession as a whole. She said, “Achieving fellow status provided

recognition for the first 10 years of my career with health-system

pharmacy practice, which included leadership in our OSHP chapter

with a term as president and six total years of service on the board

of directors. In turn, ASHP looks to its Fellows to comment on important

practice-focused guidelines

and documents.”

Dr. Mark Britton admits that his

election as a Fellow in ASHP this

past spring came late for him

in his career. “I received many

congratulatory notes from folks in

the profession that contained a

side comment about me being

installed as a Fellow was

long overdue!” he said.

“I think that

I already receive national recognition for my work with ambulatory care

service development, educational programs to develop clinical skills in

practicing pharmacists, and developing residency programs for the

college and across the state. But I do believe that having Fellow status

may give me some added credibility when I offer my opinions or when I

may be considered for other opportunities.”

Dr. Don Harrison received recognition as a Fellow with APhA in 2010.

“This achievement is probably the most important award of my

pharmacy professional career since it is a true recognition of my

profession,” he said. “It brings an awareness of who I am with peers

from outside the University of Oklahoma. I place it right up there with

some of the honors I achieved in the Army.”

A Fellow of APhA is either a member of the APhA Academy of

Pharmacy Practice and Management (APhA-APRM) or the APhA Academy

of Pharmaceutical Research and Science (APhA-APRS). Dean JoLaine

Draugalis received Fellow distinction with APhA in 2001 (APhA-APRS).

The following year, she received the same status with ASHP. “I have been

a member of APhA since my second year in pharmacy school and joined

ASHP when I graduated from pharmacy school. I think you can say I’ve

paid a lot of dues, both literally and figuratively!” she said. “But honestly,

when the distinction came through from both associations, I felt that it

represents dedication to the profession and what one has accomplished

and contributed to over the years. You get tapped for profession-wide

initiatives such as national committee assignments, ‘think-tank’ projects,

and strategic planning initiatives for the profession, discipline, and sub-

units of the organization.”

One of the most recent individuals to receive Fellow status with APhA, Dr.

Michael Miller was recognized at the group’s annual meeting in March.

He was one of six members elected as an APhA Fellow by APhA-APRS in

2012. “I was definitely pleased and humbled to receive this honor,” he

said. “It is personally satisfying to see that the efforts one makes behind

the scenes on a daily basis to advance the pharmacy profession are

recognized by peers, colleagues and leaders. It inspires me to do more

to further realize our collective potential. Through this achievement,

I hope to inspire others in their quest for excellence in the

pharmacy profession.”

Being a Fellow in any of these organizations does have another

rewarding aspect. “I have tried to ‘pay it forward’ by nominating

deserving colleagues for the fellowship status,” said Draugalis.

“I always feel proud when others receive this distinction.”

“Productivity is never an accident. It is

always the result of a commitment to

excellence, intelligent planning and

focused effort.” - Paul J. Meyer

Dr. Michael Miller


Mark Britton, Pharm.D., M.Div., FASHPSenior Associate Dean for Academic Affairs and Professional ProgramsProfessor of Pharmacy Practice

Senior Associate Dean Mark Britton recently received his master of divinity degree from Western Theological Seminary in Holland, Mich. Although the addition of another graduate degree wasn’t necessarily something he did for his career, he said it has been a longtime goal. His unusual path started in November 2006, and he has been continuously enrolled since then, taking classes each term. The program of 96 credit hours was completed in August of this year.

Dr. Britton shared some of the details of his new graduate degree

in a recent interview:

Can you share something about your process in choosing a degree program at Western Theological Seminary? Western Theological Seminary has a “blended” distance/in-residence

program. Fifty percent of each course is completed in-residence

during two week intensives (in either January or May) and the

remaining is completed online before and after these intensives.

All of the experiential (or field work) is completed locally. As part of

the required experiences, I completed a preaching experience at the

United Presbyterian Church in Shawnee, Okla.; provided pastoral

care to the homeless and indigent and participated in cross-cultural

interactions with the Skyline Urban Ministry in Oklahoma City;

experienced Native American worship with the Seminole Indian

Presbyterian Church in Wewoka, Okla.; and served as a chaplain at

the OU Medical Center in their clinical pastoral education program.

Why did you want to pursue this degree? I have had interest in gaining a master of divinity since the mid-1990s,

but I did not want to leave pharmacy or uproot my family. When I

learned about this program, I explored it and decided it would meet

my needs. Working toward a M.Div. degree is really an extension of

the interior work that has been going on within me since the early

1990s. The pursuit of the M.Div. has deepened my faith substantially.

How does this affect your leadership style at the college? I do not believe that my leadership style is necessarily different, but I

do think I understand myself better and am able to work with greater

confidence and more at peace within my strengths.

Unique Pathway Offers Holistic Perspectivefor Senior Associate Dean


I think that my seminary education has

strengthened my character, and this in

turn has had a positive influence on the

quality of my leadership.

Three of my top five strengths as a leader are “connectedness,”

“developer” and “positivity.” These three strengths are all found

within the domain of relationship-building, and I like building new

relationships between people, within pharmacy and with other

professions. My greatest spiritual gifts are peacemaking, mercy and

faith, along with administration and teaching – which may have

something to do with how I ended up in my current position.

My seminary journey helped me more fully integrate my spiritual gifts

into the work that I do each day, bringing harmony where there has

been discord, peace and joy where there has been strife.

Can you recall a funny or interesting moment in your pursuit of this degree? Even though many students in my class were from across the country

(New York to California, and even three from Oklahoma) and from

around the world (South Korea and the Virgin Islands), most students

are from Michigan and the upper Midwest. My Southern accent from

Alabama really threw them off, and many could not help noticing or

making comments about how I speak. The seminary places great

value on intercultural awareness and the appreciation of the great

cultural diversity in this country and world. They even require that all

students complete an intercultural immersion trip during the last year

of seminary. I always told them I was their “intercultural immersion”

experience each time I was at the seminary!


Retirement

Carl K. Buckner, professor, Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences,Buckner has been at the college since 1997. Previously, he was a member of the professional

staff of the American Council on Pharmaceutical Education, serving as associate executive

director from 1995 through 1997. He is a registered pharmacist in the state of Oklahoma.

Effective Jan. 31.

Ronald Graham, director, Pharmacy Management ConsultantsPrior to coming to the college in 1999, Graham worked as the outpatient pharmacy manager for

Health Source Pharmacy at University Hospital in Oklahoma City. He is a registered pharmacist in

Oklahoma and Texas.

Effective Jan. 31.

Elgene “Jake” Jacobs, associate professor and research manager, Pharmacy Management ConsultantsDuring his tenure at OU, Jacobs was active in the development of managed care pharmacy and

the utilization of large claims databases in managed care services. He served as a consultant

for the Oklahoma Medicaid program and the Oklahoma State and Education Employees Group

Insurance Board. He is the author of numerous peer-reviewed journal articles examining topics

such as the cost and utilization of pharmaceuticals and managed care services.

Effective March 31.

Changes at the College in 2012


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Administrative

R. Chris Rathbun, professor and chair, Department of PharmacyClinical and Administrative Sciences-Oklahoma City.Dr. Rathbun received his doctor of pharmacy degree from the University of Minnesota. He

is a board certified pharmacotherapy specialist and has added qualifications in infectious

diseases pharmacotherapy. His clinical research has focused on infectious diseases.

Effective July 1.

Nathan Shankar, director of OU College of Pharmacy Graduate Programs Professor and Vice Chair, Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences.Dr. Shankar received his doctorate degree from the University of Madras, India. He has been

recognized by the college and the university with several awards including the President’s

Associates Presidential Professorship Award in 2008; the Regents’ Award for Superior

Research and Creative Activity in 2006 and the Outstanding Research Award in 2002.

Effective July 1.


Faculty Member Honored for AchievementsMelissa Medina Receives OUHSC Presidential Professorship

One of the first things OU President David Boren addressed when he arrived on

campus at OU was faculty excellence. He asked such hard questions as “How can

OU retain its best and brightest professors?” and “How can OU attract the quality of

faculty who will be great educators and researchers?” The Presidential Professorship

Program was one of his initiatives to recognize and reward such top faculty members.

During the spring semester, Dr. Melissa Medina, associate professor and assistant

dean of Assessment and Evaluation at the college, was recognized as an OUHSC

Presidential Professor, which recognizes the nomination and recommendations of her

peers and students.

“Dr. Medina is truly passionate about good teaching, so much so that she has inspired

many students to become teachers and stimulated other faculty members to improve

the quality of their own teaching efforts,” said Dr. Mark Britton, senior associate dean.

“She has a unique ability to ‘feel’ the needs of learners in a room as well as empathize

with them as they work to discover new information and relationships between what

they already know and new information gained in the professional curriculum.”

Graduate student Dr. Tammy Lambert agrees. “It is because of Dr. Medina’s honesty

and openness that I have continued to seek out her guidance now that I am a

graduate student with teaching responsibilities. Not only have I fulfilled my dream

of becoming a pharmacist, but have exceeded my own expectations because of her

guidance, support and mentoring!”

Medina is recognized nationally as well. She served as inaugural chair of the

American Association of Colleges of Pharmacy Assessment special interest group

and currently serves as chair of the AACP Center

for the Advancement of Pharmaceutical Education

Outcomes Revision Committee. Dean Draugalis

notes that Medina also published 12 peer-reviewed

articles during 2010-2011 on top of serving as

co-chair for the college’s self-study preparation for

the professional degree program’s Accreditation

Council for Pharmacy Education accreditation

cycle. “Everything she does, she does well and is a

positive force, given her giving and caring nature,”

said Draugalis.

Medina is humbled by the recognition. “This award

has inspired me to strive for more and set more

pervasive goals that will increase involvement with

students and faculty locally and nationally,” she said.

Congratulations, Dr. Medina!

Melissa S. Medina, Ed.D.Associate ProfessorAssistant Dean of Assessment and EvaluationDirector of Preparing Future Faculty, OUHSC Graduate College


HONORS:

American Association of Colleges of Pharmacy Assessment Award

American Association of Colleges of Pharmacy Innovations in Teaching Award

OUHSC College of Pharmacy Rho Chi Pharmacy Honor Society Outstanding Faculty of the Year Award

OUHSC College of Pharmacy P-4 Class Teacher of the Year Award

OUHSC College of Pharmacy Teacher Excellence Award recipient

OUHSC College of Pharmacy Outstanding Faculty Member, Phi Lambda Sigma Award

OUHSC College of Pharmacy Convocation Speaker

SERVICE:

Russell Dougherty Elementary School President of the Parent Teaching Organization (PTO)

YMCA of Edmond Youth Soccer Coach

OUHSC Graduate College Director of Preparing Future Faculty

OUHSC Faculty Leadership Program Faculty

American Association of Colleges of Pharmacy Chair for the Center for the Advancement of

Pharmacy Education (CAPE) Revision Committee

American Association of Colleges of Pharmacy Chair for the Academic Affairs Committee

American Association of Colleges of Pharmacy Chair for the Assessment Special Interest Group

American Association of Colleges of Pharmacy Recognition of Teaching Excellence Task Force

American Association of Colleges of Pharmacy Institutional Research and Assessment Committee


Misty M. Miller, Pharm.D.Clinical Assistant ProfessorDepartment of Pharmacy: Clinical and Administrative Sciences – Oklahoma City

Dr. Miller received her Pharm.D. from OU College of Pharmacy in 2009. She joined the department in July,

with a main focus on clinical infectious diseases. Miller’s research interests are in mechanisms of resistance;

drug interactions among antimicrobials; and treatment and amelioration of adverse drug reactions.

Bob M. John, Pharm.D., BCPSClinical Assistant ProfessorDepartment of Pharmacy: Clinical and Administrative Sciences – Tulsa

Dr. John received his Pharm.D. from OU College of Pharmacy in

2008. He joined the department in July and his main focus is

working in the OU Physicians Pediatric Clinic. John’s research

interests are in improving safety in pediatric patients, monitoring

pediatric patients with chronic diseases and improving pediatric

pharmacy education.

Wei Yue, Ph.D.Assistant ProfessorDepartment of Pharmaceutical Sciences

Dr. Yue joined the department in September after working at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill.

She directs an NIH-funded research program focused on studying the role of drug transport proteins in drug

disposition, aiming to predict transporter-mediated drug-drug and drug-disease interactions and toxicities.

She received her master’s degree in developmental biology at Shandong University in China and a doctorate

in developmental biology in a joint program with Peking Union Medical College and Shandong University.

at the OU College of PharmacyNew Faculty

Vaccine Against West Nile Virus

Pharmacy Researcher Collaborates With Duke University to Develop Novel Dry Powder Nasal

Photo (Right): Dr. Garcia-Contreras and her laboratory team (Dhawal Raghuvanshi and Shumaila Hanif) are testing the particle size of the WNV vaccine powder emitted from the nasal device by laser diffraction (red instrument).

One of the major topics of interest in the news this summer, especially in Oklahoma and Texas, was the severity of the West Nile virus. Assistant professor Dr. Lucila Garcia-Contreras has been actively researching vaccines against this virus for the past 18 months, collaborating with Drs. Herman Staats and Soman Abraham at Duke University.


16



West Nile virus is transmitted to mammals by mosquito bite. The majority of WNV infections in humans are asymptomatic. However, as many as 30

percent of infected individuals develop a flu-like syndrome with symptoms including fever, fatigue, headache, rash, muscle weakness and vomiting.

In a small percentage of infected individuals (less than 1 percent), the infection can progress to encephalitis, which includes symptoms of cognitive

dysfunction and flaccid paralysis. A mortality rate of approximately 10 percent is observed with these neuro-invasive forms of infection.

Garcia-Contreras explained details of her research in a recent interview.

Assistant professor Dr. Lucila Garcia-Contreras


What is the current form of treatment for West Nile virus?

Currently, there is no vaccine against WNV approved for human use.

Fort Dodge Animal Health markets a vaccine that utilizes formalin-inactivated

WNV as the antigen and is 95 effective one year after vaccination.

Although this vaccine is effective in horses, formalin treatment can alter the

antigenicity of the vaccine, resulting in reduced protection against the natural

pathogen. A candidate WNV DNA vaccine, currently in Phase I Clinical trials,

appears safe and capable of inducing WNV neutralizing antibodies. However,

this vaccine strategy requires a total of three vaccine doses, delivered over a

56-day period, before inducing a protective immune response.

How is your research specifically related to the WNV?

I am collaborating with Drs. Staats and Abraham from Duke University

to produce a novel vaccine against WNV in a powder form for nasal

administration. Our aim is to produce a vaccine that can induce protective

immunity against infection with fewer than three doses and in less than 56

days. The Duke team had approached the project realizing that WNV infection

was likely to be an intermittent public health threat with immunization of the

entire population not practical or cost-effective. Therefore, it was desirable to

produce a vaccine against WNV that can be easily administered to people at

risk of exposure and that can maintain the potency while stored for extended

periods of time. A dry powder vaccine for nasal administration would fulfill

these requirements. My laboratory here at the OU College of Pharmacy

specializes in the development and optimization of novel pharmaceutical

dosage forms and vaccines to be administered via the respiratory system.

The vaccine that our combined team (Duke University and OUHSC) is

developing employs a structural protein produced by the virus that mediates

viral attachment to the host, called envelope (E) protein. Previous studies by

Staats’ group and others have shown that this protein is able to induce WNV-

neutralizing antibodies that provide protection against WNV infection in mice.

In addition, Staats and Abraham have developed synthetic non-immunogenic

cationic antimicrobial peptides that can be used as mucosal adjuvants alone

or combined with effective synthetic toll like receptor ligands. Thus, it was

postulated that a WNV vaccine consisting of recombinant envelope protein

and a combination of these adjuvants can be optimized to induce protective

immunity with fewer than three immunizations while requiring fewer than 56

days to complete the immunization regimen.



The tasks of my laboratory are to develop the formulation of this

vaccine in a powder form and optimize this formulation for efficient

nasal delivery. At this time, we have produced and optimized

powders for each individual component of the vaccine and evaluated

their performance in the commercial device. Staats’ laboratory has

determined that the potency of the antigen and adjuvants are retained

in the individual powders. The next steps are to manufacture a batch

of this vaccine that combines the antigen and both adjuvants in one

powder for testing and to evaluate the long-term stability of the

vaccine upon storage at different conditions. We expect that at the

end of this project we will have a stable vaccine that will be effective

in preventing the disease, will be capable of self-administration and

can be stored for longer periods of time.

Is this research funded?

Yes, this research is funded by the National Institutes of Health under

the grant project, “Development of Cationic Peptide Adjuvants and

18 OU College of Pharmacy

Formulations for Biodefense Vaccine.” While Staats and Abraham are

listed as co-principal investigators, a subcontract is awarded to OUHSC

with my laboratory handling the assigned research.

Most basic science research findings won’t find its way to a patient for another five to 10 years. Do you

think there will still be an urgency to find a cure?

More than a cure, we are aiming to prevent the disease. So far, the

results in animal models are encouraging. Once the safety and efficacy

of this vaccine formulation is established in appropriate animal studies,

it is possible that the vaccine could be entered into clinical trials if we

can partner with a pharmaceutical company that will be interested in

marketing the product. It may be likely that this can happen in the near

future, as representatives of a Japanese company showed interest

in the project after we presented the results of our research at an

international meeting last May. However, regulatory procedures may

prolong the time that it takes to be used in humans.

Dr. Garcia and her team get ready to assemble the spray dryer to manufacture the vaccine powders.


American Association of Diabetes EducatorsRecognized by the

The OU College of Pharmacy Pharmacotherapy Services Group recently

received the American Association of Diabetes Educators Pharmacy

Community of Interest Best Practices in Diabetes Care award for 2012.

Dr. Nancy Letassy, professor and director of operations for the OU

Pharmacotherapy Clinic, presented a short presentation about the OU

Pharmacotherapy Practice during the Pharmacy COI networking session

Aug. 2 at the AADE annual meeting in Indianapolis.

“The purpose of this award is to recognize innovative practices

throughout the country that advance pharmacy within diabetes

care. This award is based on competitive submissions, reviewed and

selected by peers in diabetes care practice. It is an honor to be one of

the first recipients of this award by AADE,” said Letassy.

Congratulations to faculty members of the Pharmacotherapy Services

Group: Drs. Mark Britton, Nancy Letassy, Becky Armor, Todd Marcy,

Teresa Truong, Micki Hall, Vincent Dennis, Jamie Farley, David Hawkins,

Shannan Wideman and Heather Edwards.

Jamie Farley, Pharm.D., B.C.P.S., was recognized at the Oklahoma

Pharmacists Association annual convention earlier this year in

Dallas. She was presented with the Excellence in Innovation Award,

sponsored by the National Alliance of State Pharmacy Associations

and Upsher-Smith Laboratories.

Farley, a clinical assistant professor at the OU College of Pharmacy,

was appointed as Community Champion of the American Pharmacists

Association Foundation’s Project Impact: Diabetes at Variety Care,

a federally qualified health center, where she supports clinical

pharmacy services.

Variety Care, one of 25 partners selected to participate in this project,

provides diabetes care to select patients through personal visits with

a clinical pharmacist and diabetes educator. These visits provide

patients with training in diabetes self-management through proper

nutrition, monitoring, medications and exercise. Variety Care provides

primary care for approximately 1,300 patients with diabetes.


Dr. Jamie Farley

LeadersWho Can InspireOthers


Shanjana Awasthi, Ph.D.• Modulation of host defense by SP-A-TLR4

interaction. (AHA Grant-in-Aid; PI)

Vibhudutta Awasthi, Ph.D.• Biologic evaluation of liposome-encapsulated

hemoglobin. (NIH/NHLBI R01; PI)• Dietary prevention of cancer. (NIH/NCI R01;

principal investigator of subcontract)

Randle Gallucci, Ph.D.• The role of IL-6 in diabetic wound healing

(OCAST; PI)• Dermatological Effects of Gulf Oil (NIH/NIEHS

R03; PI)

Lucila Garcia-Contreras, Ph.D.• Development of cationic peptide adjuvants and

formulations for Biodefense vaccine. (NIH U01; principal investigator of subcontract)

• Inhaled caprazamycin for tuberculosis therapy. (Research Triangle Institute; principal investigator of subcontract)

Michael Ihnat, Ph.D.• Single agents with designed combination

chemotherapy potential. (NIH/NCI R01; principal investigator of subcontract)

Anne Kasus-Jacobi, Ph.D.• Therapeutic use of carcinine in progressive

retinopathy. (OCAST; PI)

Teresa Lewis, Pharm.D.• Pharmacokinetics of Daptomycin after single

dose infusion in children with chronic kidney disease and in children on dialysis. (Cubist; PI)

Todd Marcy, Pharm.D., BCPS, CACP• Multidisciplinary team approach to reduce

adverse drug events with clinical pharmacy initiatives in health systems. (OFMQ; PI)

W. Michael McShan. Ph.D.• Bacteriophage control of DNA repair in

Streptococcus pyogenes. (NIH/NIAID R15; PI)• Mobile element SpyCIM1 enhances survival in

S. pyogenes. (OCAST; PI)

Michael J. Miller, D.Ph.• Deep south arthritis and musculoskeletal CERTs

(Univ. of Alabama; PI of subcontract)

Katherine O’Neal, Ph.D.• Effectiveness of an Educational Intervention on

the Cari. (Merck; PI)• Evaluation of Merck’s Headache School:

A Quasi-Experiment. (Merck; PI)

H. Anne Pereira, Ph.D.• CAP 37 and ocular inflammation.

(NIH/NEI R01; PI)• Development of an antimicrobial peptide

therapeutic for Pseudomonas infections. (NIH/NIAID U01; PI)

• New drugs for bad bugs. (Biolytix; principal investigator of subcontract)

• Role of CAP 37 in Neuroinflammation: Friend of Foe? (OCAST; PI)

R. Chris Rathbun, Pharm.D., BCPS, AQ-ID• HIV Drug Assistance Program adherence

contract. (OSDH; PI)

Lester Reinke, Ph.D.• Drug Utilization Review (DUR) Board.

(Oklahoma Health Care Authority; PI)

Nathan Shankar, Ph.D.• Host immune response to E. faecalis biofilm.

(NIH/NIDCR R21; PI)

Winter Smith, Ph.D.• Retrospective investigation of the comparative

effectiveness of daptomycin vs vancomycin for the treatment of mrsa bacteremia with vancomycin mics of 1.5-2.0 mcg/ml. (Cubist; PI)

Kelly Standifer, Ph.D.• Molecular mechanism of chronic pain and its

modulation by posttraumatic stress disorder and Nociceptin/Orphanin FQ. (DoD; PI)

Sukyung Woo, Ph.D.• Effective translation of in vitro synergistic

combination into maximal in vivo synergy. (Stephenson Oklahoma Cancer Center; PI)

• Tumor resistance mechanisms to anti-VEGF therapy in prostate cancer. COBRE. (Stephenson Oklahoma Cancer Center; Investigator)

Youngjae You, Ph.D.• Targeted delivery and remote-controlled release

of chemotherapeutic agents. (DoD; PI)• New BODIPY-type photosensitizers absorbing

near IR light. (OCAST; PI)• Identifying drug target in dormant cancer cells

(Dormatarg; PI of subcontract)

Wei Yue, Ph.D.• Function and regulation of OATP1B1 and

OATP1B3. (NIH R01; PI)

20 OU College of Pharmacy

Current Research Projects


“Impacting Research Collaboration on the OUHSC Campus: the

World’s First Biomarker Generator” was the topic of a lecture April 12

attended by more than 100 people. The reception featured remarks

from Provost M. Dewayne Andrews and Dean JoLaine Draugalis.

Dr. Vibhudutta Awasthi, director of the Research Imaging Facility at the

college, talked about the resources now available to the campus and

region. Tom Welch, president and CEO of ABT Molecular Imaging Inc.,

also was present (ABT is the manufacturer of the biomarker generator).

The World’s First Biomarker Generator


Founded in 2007, the ambassador program has served as a platform for students to formally represent the College of Pharmacy. Students involved in the program have a visible presence on the college campuses and serve as role models to fellow students, faculty and staff. The college is deeply appreciative of the 188 ambassadors serving this year!


The Oklahoma Poison Control Center has grown from a small corner of

a lab at the Oklahoma State Department of Health in 1962 to being an

innovator and leader among poison centers across the United States

today. Founded in 1962, the center initially provided services out of

Oklahoma City, with supplemental assistance provided by small satellite

centers in Tulsa and Ponca City. Roughly 500 calls were answered

in their first year of existence. In the 1970s statewide services were

consolidated into a single center based in Oklahoma City; call volume

increased to nearly 10,000 calls per year. Fifty years later, the center is

staffed 24 hours a day, seven days a week by pharmacists and nurses;

eight of the 10 full-time specialists are certified in poison information.

In 2011, the Poison Center fielded 48,627 calls and made 36,566

follow-up calls to determine patient outcomes.

The staff of the Oklahoma Poison Control Center includes leaders who

remain active at both the state and national level. Dr. William Banner,

who has served as medical director since 2000, also serves on the

American Association of Poison Control Centers Board of Directors.

Banner is a diplomate of the American Boards of Medical Toxicology

and Pediatric Critical Care and a Fellow of the American Academies

of Pediatrics, Critical Care Medicine, Clinical Toxicology, and Medical

Toxicology. In 2011, Banner received the Matthew J. Ellenhorn Award,

which is presented to an individual who has made extraordinary

contributions to the field of medical toxicology. Scott Schaeffer, the

center’s managing director, has been a member of the AAPCC since

1995. He is a diplomate of the American Board of Applied Toxicology

and serves nationally on the accreditation and nominations committees.

He currently is working on an education program for candidates for the

ABAT examination with the American Academy of Clinical Toxicology.

Randy Badillo, clinical supervisor, serves as the co-chair of the AAPCC

Planning Committee and is a valuable member of the education and

mentoring committees.

Oklahoma Poison Control Center specialists provide more than just

poisoning treatment advice. They provide peace of mind to parents, the

aging population, young people and others of all ages and backgrounds.

The center’s specialists take pride in their work and truly enjoy what

they do every day. Brent Reid, a pharmacist at the Poison Center for two

Celebrating 50 Years

22

Making a Difference in the Lives of Oklahomansyears, says he especially enjoys helping reassure frantic parents of

young children. Marda Riley, a nurse with the center for 12 years, says

she likes being able to alleviate callers’ fears and her successes in

keeping people out of the emergency room.

Oklahoma Poison Control Center specialists are consummate listeners,

and are able to think outside of the box. Just this year, the center’s

specialists have recognized several situations in which a patient was

experiencing a life-threatening medical emergency rather than a

poisoning emergency.

Working at the Oklahoma Poison Control Center is more than just a job

to Oklahoma Poison Control Center specialists; they are proud to make

a difference in the lives of their fellow Oklahomans.

Early one morning, Roger Blackwood, a pharmacist who has been with the center for 13 years, answered a call from the daughter of an incoherent elderly mother. After obtaining a quick

but thorough history and evaluating the patient’s symptoms, he

determined that this was a medical emergency rather than a

poisoning situation. He advised the daughter to immediately call

911 and have her mother transported to the nearest emergency

department. Upon arrival, the physician on duty determined that

the patient was having a stroke and she was quickly admitted for

appropriate care.

Dianna D’Aura, a pharmacist with the center for two years, received a phone call about a woman who had just started taking a new medication. This caller reported that the individual was

incoherent, very agitated and somewhat combative; all of these

characteristics were out of the ordinary for her and wondered

if this could be due to her new medication. D’Aura gathered

more information and history on the woman. She knew that the

symptoms described were not common reactions to the prescribed

medication. After careful deliberation, she advised the caller to

have the woman transported to the emergency department.

Later, after many follow-up calls by the center’s staff, it was

discovered that the woman was admitted to the hospital with a

reported case of meningitis.



Students, staff and faculty had an opportunity in September to listen

to a seasoned U.S. Air Force command pilot speak on “Leading High

Performance Teams.”

J.V. Venable, USAF Thunderbird commander and demonstration leader

2000-2001, encouraged everyone at the college to know what it takes

to lead effectively. He explained that “team momentum” (or effective

leadership) has three important elements: commitment, loyalty and trust.

He encouraged pharmacy students to understand that leadership is getting

everyone to head in the same direction. “In order to get commitment from

your people, you have to know your people,” he said. “Take time to pull

people toward you.”

Venable shared his story of flying fighter aircraft all over the world: Europe,

Northern Africa, Turkey, the Pacific and throughout the United States.

In 1991 he was selected to attend the U.S. Air Force Fighter Weapons

School (the Air Force version of Top Gun) at Nellis Air Force Base, Nevada,

flying the F-16. However, shortly after that, things changed.

After fighting cancer through two operations and a round of radiation

therapy, Venable heard the words “you’ll never fly again.” Faced with an

uncertain future and a determination to beat the odds, he decided to put an

old dream back on the horizon – a dream to lead the USAF Thunderbirds.

With a strong determination and help from close friends, JV captured

his dream three years later. He took the helm of the Thunderbirds as the

commander and demonstration leader in January 2000.

In 2004, JV was selected to command a combat Operations Group at Al

Udeid Air Force Base in Qatar. From this location, his 16-squadron team

flew 27,000 missions and delivered 200,000 passengers, 40,000 tons of

cargo, 38 million gallons of fuel to 9,000 airborne receiver aircraft and

serviced 311 targets with live ordnance – all without gap or loss.

In his last assignment on active duty, Venable served as a principle adviser

and debriefer to both the chief of staff and the director of operations of

the U.S. Air Force in their roles within the Joint Chiefs of Staff. He is the

recipient of eight Department of Defense commendations for superior

achievement and outstanding performance, including the Bronze Star for

duties as a commander, leader and aviator.

“When you are on a quest for excellence, it becomes personal.” – JV Venable

Leadership RetreatCollege Provides Opportunity to Learn About Leadership



Dean JoLaine Draugalis began

her career in pharmacy at

Ferris State University in Big

Rapids, Mich. This last May,

she visited her alma mater as

an invited guest and com-

mencement speaker, receiv-

ing an Honorary Doctorate of

Business and Industry.

“It was such a meaningful

experience to address the

graduates and welcome them

as fellow alumni of Ferris

State. I was so pleased that many of my family members and friends

could be in attendance. It was both a celebration and a reunion.”

Draugalis also holds a master of education degree with a major in

educational psychology and a doctor of philosophy with a major in

pharmacy from the University of Arizona. For the first four years at

OU, Draugalis held the Edith Kinney Gaylord Presidential Professor-

ship. She now holds the David Ross Boyd Professorship, a

lifetime appointment.

Her research centers on pharmacy education program design, adminis-

tration and evaluation. She looks at determining how resources,

curricula and academic programs are administered in pharmacy

education as well as pursuing the definition, evaluation and reward

structures of the scholarship of teaching and learning.

Other honors garnered throughout her career include the American

Pharmacists Association’s Gloria Niemeyer Francke Leadership Mentor

Award, American Association of Colleges of Pharmacy Distinguished

Pharmacy Educator Award, University of Arizona’s Henry and Phyllis

Koffler Prize for Teaching, and American Pharmacists Association’s

Research Achievement Award in the Pharmaceutical Sciences.

Dean DraugalisReceives Honorary Doctorate From Her Alma Mater

FSU President David L. Eisler introduces Dean Draugalis as commencement speaker.

24

A total of 424 individuals applied for the doctor of pharmacy program for fall 2012. From this pool, 243 students were selected for interview and

201 interviews were completed.

• Class Size: 113

• Women: 55%

• Men: 45%

• Oklahoma Residents: 81%

• Average Age: 27

• PCAT Composite: 68th

• Minorities: 49%

• PreGPA: 3.53

• Percentage completed bachelors degree: 72%

White Coat Ceremony, Aug. 18

Welcome, Class of 2016!



“Winning Makes Work Even More Fun”

After participating in a 13-member dragon boat team representing the

OU College of Pharmacy at the Stars and Stripes River Festival this

summer in Oklahoma City, student program specialist Jessica Anthony

remarked, “Winning makes work even more fun.” After a few short

months of training together, the team members were thrilled when

they won first place in the competition, which took place June 30

through July 1.

A group of staff members visited the Oklahoma City Boathouse

Foundation last fall for a short visit and returned with a bunch of

brochures that included information on corporate rowing and dragon

boating leagues. They quickly identified cost restrictions on rowing,

and decided to commit to dragon boating. Breion Rollins from OU

Healthy Sooners and OU Wellness sponsored the team’s league fees

for the spring of 2012. They were given the option to compete just for

fun or to compete to win. Given that most of the people on the team

were natural competitors, they chose to compete to win.

College of Pharmacy team members were Jessica Anthony, Kevin

Farmer, Kim Hovseth, Eric Johnson, Justin McMinn, Meredith

Moorman, Kevin Rinaldi, Airica Rollins, Breion Rollins, Jill Shadid,

Don Wanzer, Megan Westbrook and Robert White. Jared McArthur

from Oklahoma City University, a member of the USA Canoe/Kayak

Under-23 National Team, served as coach.

Everyone agreed that the best benefit was building camaraderie and

forging new friendships. Westbrook, a staff accountant in the Business

Office who has only been with the college for a year, said that the

team “became friends and enjoyed getting together each week to train

as well as relax. We became a team not only in the water but at work

as well.” Anthony agreed, stating, “I met people from the college who

I never knew before. I got to build friendships and create new ones,

all while getting active.”

The accountability of being a part of the team was important, too.

“When you paddle in the front of the boat, people notice when you’re

gone,” Anthony quipped.

Another obvious benefit was that the team members enjoyed a new

way to stay physically active. “I am all about keeping fit, and this was

something extra to add to my workout plan,” Westbrook said. Anthony

piped in, “I now have one bicep. Next season I may need to switch

sides in the boat to even them out!”

Being a part of the team had other benefits as well. Membership in

the boating league entitles you to use of the Boathouse Foundation’s

stand-up paddle boats, recreational kayaks, bicycles and gym facilities.

According to Kevin Rinaldi, business manager, “I had a great time

trying things I couldn’t have tried elsewhere and enjoyed them while

getting some good exercise.”

Of course, the college received some great publicity when the OU

Pharmacy Dragon Boat won the championship race. Their team

shirts identified the OU Healthy Sooners program and the announcer

broadcast the college’s winning time! “We were the only dragon boat

team, but there were a few other OU rowing teams and we all did

well,” Anthony observed. “This was a great opportunity for the

‘Sooner’ spirit to expand and exist beyond the football field.”

The OU Pharmacy Dragon Boat winning team: Eric Johnson, Jill Shadid, Justin McMinn, Robert White, Kevin Rinaldi, Jared McArthur, Jessica Anthony, Megan Westbrook, Kimberly Hovseth, Don Wanzer and Kevin Farmer (not pictured – Meredith Moorman and Airica Rollins).

25OU College of PharmacyOU College of Pharmacy



Our student compounding teams had a great

showing this year in Gainesville, Fla., at the

Second Annual National Student Pharmacist

Compounding Competition sponsored by

Medisca. They were judged on compounding,

regulations and a poster presentation.

The team from our Tulsa campus (composed

of two P2s and a P1) were Chris Pack, Michael

Savettiere and Weiwei Wu. They won the overall

competition and received a gift certificate worth

$1,000 toward compounding supplies from

Medisca. Pack is a Pharm.D./M.S. student.

Our Oklahoma City team (all P2s: John Lugafet, Jenifer Youtsey and Veronica Wilson) placed third in the compounding component.

Fourteen teams competed. Congratulations to our winners and their faculty sponsor, Robin Milton! Thanks also to Dr. Alamdar Hussain for

assisting with the local competition and for the whole team that provided pharmaceutics and/or advanced compounding knowledge and

expertise (Drs. Vibhu Awasthi, David Bourne and Lucila Garcia-Contreras).

OU Pharmacy Student Compounding TeamsSuccessful in Florida

In an effort to join the university’s Green Initiative, the college’s Alumni Affairs Office is requesting that alumni provide an email address, if possible.

To reduce the amount of paper used, alumni may elect to receive communications via email. Of course, this information will only be used for College of Pharmacy business and will not be provided to any external entity.

Please email your electronic address to Sandy Warner at [email protected].

Pharmacy Alumni - Go Green!

Thank you for helping the Alumni Affairs Office go green!


The spring was the first time for the college to participate

in this competition. The corporate dragon boat league’s fall

season concluded with the OG&E Night Sprints on Sept. 27,

as part of the Oklahoma Regatta Festival. The OU College

of Pharmacy team was essentially rebuilt but still managed

to defend its title and win the league again. In addition, the

group teamed up with the management and members of the

leadership program from The Focus Federal Credit Union in

the inaugural Paddle for the Cure event. Focus sponsored the

boat and participants raised money for the Susan G. Komen

Foundation. It’s a lot of working, but winning is, indeed, fun!

Overall competition winners from the OU-Tulsa student team were Weiwei Wu, Michael Savettiere, Robin Milton (adviser) and Chris Pack.

Team members for the winning team in the fall season included: Matt Bird, Bobby Thomas (Dept. of Urology), Justin McMinn, Eric Johnson, Pat Medina, Jo’Nel Weber, Scott Schaeffer, Ashley Teel, Jessica Anthony, Megan Westbrook and Kevin Rinaldi. Their coach was Jared McArthur.


The OU College of Pharmacy is fortunate to have many alumni who actively practice generosity, not only within their own neighborhoods, but also with their alma mater.

Although he currently resides in Greensboro, N.C., Dr. David Gilliland and

his wife, Sandra, have kept a strong tie to the OU College of Pharmacy.

Gilliland serves as a member of the college’s National Advisory Board

and visits twice a year for meetings. He also is available for advice,

especially in regard to the research imaging facility at the college.

Gilliland received his bachelor’s degree in pharmacy from Auburn

University in 1976. He went on to obtain a master’s degree in nuclear

pharmacy in 1979 and a doctoral degree in pharmaceutical sciences in

1983 from OU. He established 15 nuclear

pharmacies and two medical cyclotron

facilities throughout his career.

He currently owns and operates

Geodax Imaging, a medical imaging

company focused on developing

nuclear medicine imaging

and positron emission

tomography imaging.

Leading by Giving Back to the College

Have you ever thought of making a planned gift to

OU College of Pharmacy? Through a planned or deferred gift, you can reach across generations to touch the future of OU College of Pharmacy and its students.

Planned gifts are as unique as each individual and may be tailored in a way that best serves your needs, objectives and wishes.

You can find helpful tools to calculate your planned giving goals at the OU Office of Gift and Estate Planning’s website, www.oulegacy.org.

Or call (405) 271-6485 and talk to Rex Urice.

A significant contribution to the college was the establishment of the

Sandra K. and David L. Gilliland Endowed Chair in Nuclear Pharmacy.

This endowment supports research in diagnostic and therapeutic

radiopharmaceuticals at the OU Health Sciences Center, particularly

in the area of positron emission tomography imaging. The inaugural

chair holder was Dr. Garo P. Basmadjian, Gilliland’s Ph.D. adviser.

Dr. Vibhudutta Awasthi now holds the chair.

Donors can reach across generations to touch the future of OU College of Pharmacy and its students.

The Gillilands have definitely demonstrated that gifts are as unique

as the individual who makes one and may be tailored in a way that

best serves the donor’s needs, objectives and wishes while helping

to strengthen the future of OU College of Pharmacy.

These important gifts can offer significant tax and estate-planning

benefits for donors. OU’s Office of Gift and Estate Planning staff

members work with donors and their representatives on a variety of

planned giving options to support OU. These options include bequests,

charitable remainder trusts, real estate and life insurance.

For more information on making a gift to the college, please contact Rex Urice at (405) 271-6485, Ext. 47274, or email him at [email protected].

27


I was 5 years old in the summer of 1969 and glued to my television

set. Sitting transfixed, I could not move as I watched on a brand-new

color television Neil Armstrong took “one small step for man, one

giant leap for mankind.” A man had stepped foot on the moon.

In contrast, I watched with fascination a couple of months ago as

a new rover from NASA landed on Mars.

President John Kennedy made a speech at Rice University in

1962 and stated that landing a man on the moon would be a

goal of our country. President Kennedy knew that progress could

not be deterred; whether we as a nation chose to join or not, the

progression of knowledge would move onward. This seemed an

impossible goal; just 59 years earlier the Wright Brothers had

conducted the first successful powered flight of an airplane.

It wouldn’t be an easy task, but in a phrase that will be remembered

throughout history President Kennedy stated, “We choose to go to

the moon. We choose to go to the moon and do the other things, not

only because they are easy, but because they are hard…”

I remember sitting in a classroom listening to our Medicinal Chemistry

professor Dr. Magarian say that “if you want them to reach the moon,

first you must aim them for the stars.” Certainly anyone who took one

of his med-chem tests could relate to the words of President Kennedy!

There were many professors at our alma mater who inspired and

challenged us to become professionals and leaders. In my day, there

were professors like Dr. Richard Grunder, Dr. Loyd Allen, Dr. Thomas

Pento, Dr. Casey Robinson, Dr. Garo Basmadjian, Dr. Charles Seifert,

Dr. Chris Bradberry and Dr. Richard Shough. The students of today

would remember faculty members like Dr. Vincent Dennis, or Dr. Tracy

Hagemann. It was hard then, and I’m sure it’s even harder today as

drugs and mechanisms of actions have become increasingly complex.

Pharmacy school was an experience that made us band together with

friends and experience firsthand the value of studying and learning

with others in study groups. Diana, Brenda, Ed – thanks for the

use of your lecture notes; I would not have passed without you!

The closeness and camaraderie felt with classmates at our alma

mater is one that is hard to duplicate and sometimes hard to explain

to those who did not go to OU College of Pharmacy.

Now that you have been to the “moon” (by graduating from OU),

stay in touch with your launching point. The Alumni Celebration on

March 9, 2013, at the Skirvin Plaza in Oklahoma City is a fantastic

place to come back annually and see old friends. There will also

be opportunities at football games and CE events to come back and

see how your college has grown. Please remember to participate in

the Mortar and Pestle Society with your donations to support much-

needed continued services to students.

To the recent class of 2012 I want to say “welcome” to the Alumni

Association. To the class of 2013, I want to say “hang tough, you’re

almost there.” I look forward to shaking your hand at the finish line

in the Civic Center next June. To all of the alumni, show your pride in

being part of our “Sooner” pharmacy family. You have accomplished

great things and the best is yet to come. Great things are not ever

easy, they are earned. No matter where you are located, you are

always part of OU College of Pharmacy. There will always only be

one Oklahoma.

Boomer Sooner!

Tim Anderson (Class of 1987)

President of the OU Alumni Association

Stay in Touch With Your Launching Point



The OU College of Pharmacy is pleased to offer several ways to express pride and show school

spirit! Car decals, a beautiful translucent glass mortar and pestle, and of course, athletics tops

in different sizes and styles promote your support of the college around the country. Proceeds

of all sales are directed back to the Alumni Association, which helps fund scholarships for

pharmacy students, social activities, campaigns for improved facilities, awards and more.

Express Your College Pride

Different designs of clothes and accessories for all sizes and ages.

Check out what’s available at www.pharmacy.ouhsc.edu29OU College of Pharmacy

The annual Alumni Celebration for the College of Pharmacy

will be held at the Skirvin Hotel in Oklahoma City on March

9, 2013. We want you join us for a wonderful evening of

friendship, meeting new people and, as always, great food.

During the celebration we will recognize the 2013 Alumni

Awards recipients. Now is the time to nominate a deserving

pharmacist for an alumni award. You can find the criteria

and submit a nomination on our website,

pharmacy.ouhsc.edu/alumni/awards/nominate.asp.

Each honoree will receive a beautiful ruby red translucent

mortar-and-pestle set, engraved with the college name

and OU logo on one side and the phrase “a prescription for

excellence” on the other side. The pestles will be individually

engraved with the specific award and the recipient.

Mark your calendars for March 9, 2013


Non-ProfitOrganizationU.S. Postage

PAIDPermit # 220University ofOklahoma

University of Oklahoma College of PharmacyP.O. Box 26901Oklahoma City, OK 73126-0901

“Leadership and learning are indispensable to each other.”

- John F. Kennedy, 35th President of the United States

Continuing Education AccreditationThe Value of

The OU College of Pharmacy is the only Accreditation Council for Pharmacy Education-approved continuing

education provider that is based in Oklahoma. By the end of 2012, the college will have provided 15 continuing

education programs in Tulsa and Oklahoma City, as well as nationally. The College of Pharmacy has had ACPE

accreditation since 1996, and Sandy Warner, continuing education administrator, has served for the past several

years as a self-study reviewer for ACPE’s accreditation of other providers.

Warner states, “The ACPE Continuing Education Commission establishes standards and criteria for approved programs and promotes continuous

quality improvement. Its rigorous accreditation process ensures professionals of a quality learning experience. OU College of Pharmacy is

committed to provide continuing education programs of the highest quality.” If you are seeking ACPE-accredited continuing education, please

contact our Office of Alumni Affairs at (405) 271-6194 and talk to Sandy Warner.

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