Pharmacy SUMMER/FALL 2016 PERSPECTIVES

THE CLASS OF 2016 DREAMERS Join Us at Midyear AND DOERS The American Society of Health- System Pharmacists (ASHP) Midyear In addition to creating their own destiny, Clinical Meeting and Exhibition will our grads have unique and interesting be held Dec. 5 - 7 at Mandalay Bay experiences that help make our school great. Resort in Las Vegas, Nev. From naturalized citizens and first-generation college graduates to identical twins – their If you'll be there, join our school stories are inspiring. Read more about our at our annual reception on Monday, graduates beginning on page 7. Dec. 5 from 5.30 p.m. - 7.30 p.m, Mariner Room AB, Mandalay Bay Resort.

Moving on UP U.S. News & World Report recently ranked CU’s Skaggs School of Pharmacy #22 out of all US pharmacy schools – moving us up two spots from the previous ranking.

In This Issue

2-3 Student Life 4 Pursuit of a better anti-cancer agent 6 Potential game changer in epilepsy 7-16 Special Graduation Section 17 Pharm Bill: SB 16-135 20 Post graduation and residency – one alum’s story 22-23 An historic partnership: CU & Skaggs Havan Truong and Jennifer Kwon share a laugh and a smile immediately following the 2016 commencement ceremony. SUMMER/FALL SCHOOL NEWS

STUDENT LIFE rom volunteering during the Art of and Wesley Porter, who was featured on Aging Expo in early August to run- @RagnarRelay, the Ragnar Relay Series Twitter page. ning the Colorado Ragnar Relay and cycling in the Tour de Cure at the end AN OVERNIGHT, SCENIC RACE of September, our students stay active eaching 10,000 ft. at its highest point, the and involved all year round. F Colorado Ragnar Relay takes runners through On a Saturday in early August, eight third-year R four Colorado ski towns via bike paths, single-track pharmacy students and one second-year student trails and backwoods roads. Teams compete staffed a booth during the inaugural Art of Aging overnight with only one runner on the road at a Expo, and applied their recently acquired knowl- time. Each team member runs three times during edge in the classroom on unsuspecting attendees. the race, running roughly 3-13 miles per time. Under the watchful gaze of Professor Peter Rice, “Over the two days, the teams split into two PharmD, and Clinical Instructor Randy Knutsen, BS, vans and would ‘leapfrog’ from one runner the students conducted bone density screening exchange to the next, making it an exciting road and blood pressure checks, while distributing s we welcome a new class of trip of sorts,” said Yang. medication tracking cards to event participants. first-year students into our program In September, CU Pharmacy students Casey Expo attendees were more than willing to assist and usher the class of 2016 into the Barrett, Phuong Nguyen and Kelvin Pham from APhA- A students in getting hands-on experience. workforce, it’s time to reflect on our achieve- ASP teamed up with students in SNPhA to participate “The Art of Aging Expo was a wonderful ments and the many activities and people in this year’s Tour de Cure, an annual cycling race dedi- opportunity for students to practice their skills who comprise this great school. cated to creating support for the American Diabetes and interact with the community. Several students In this edition of Pharmacy Perspectives, Association and finding a cure for diabetes. were excited by the interesting people they met,” learn about recent graduates – what they’ve “Diabetes is a quickly growing concern, said P-3 Crystal Garcia, Colorado Student Society already accomplished and where they are especially in the United States. More and more of Health System Pharmacists (CSSHP) community going – and how these dreamers and doers people are being diagnosed every day,” said outreach coordinator co-chair. Students obtained are going to set the world of pharmacy on Barrett APhA-ASP operation diabetes co-chair. “As credit prior to the beginning of the school year, fire; celebrate our school’s achievements healthcare professionals, it is inevitable that we will which officially began Aug. 22 for the majority of including, moving up in the U.S. News & World encounter patients with diabetes.” students, and the week of Aug. 15 for the P-1s. Report rankings (from #24 to #22); discover The Tour de Cure takes riders through Salisbury the groundbreaking research our faculty are Park in Parker, Colo., and allows participants to conducting that is having a direct impact choose their run/walk or biking distance. on patient care for HIV patients; uncover the “The Tour de Cure is a great way to not only raise palliative care master’s program and why a funds for the American Diabetes Association, but to pharmacist from North Carolina is the only participate and promote physical activity, a crucial pharmacist in the inaugural class; and find out component of diabetes management,” said Barrett. how you can keep connected virtually with These are just a few examples of the many the school, alumni and students. activities that our students are involved in over the Don’t forget to check out our blog site course of a few months. “There’s really no shortage that is full of commentaries by students, of volunteer opportunities for students. It just faculty and alumni at www.cupharmacyper- depends on what interests you,” said Yang. spectives.org and remember you can always take Pharmacy Perspectives with you and read it on the go via our mobile app. Search For Garcia, organizing volunteers was a bit of a Reaching 10,000 ft. at its highest the term Pharmacy Perspectives on iTunes, challenge since her fellow classmates were still on or CU Skaggs on Google Play or Amazon. summer break. But, she was up to the task, and had point, the Colorado Ragnar Relay a great turnout from students and preceptors. takes runners through four Colorado Sincerely, A few days after the Expo, P-3 Eric Yang and nine other CU Skaggs School of Pharmacy students ski towns via bike paths, single-track completed the Colorado Ragnar Relay, a two- trails and backwoods roads. Teams day, two-man, 200-mile relay race from Copper Ralph J. Altiere, PhD Mountain to Aspen. compete overnight with only one Dean, University of Colorado Participating students included Tong Huang, runner on the road at a time. Skaggs School of Pharmacy and Tiffany Chan, Michael Benedict, Joyce Choe, Hoa Pharmaceutical Sciences Nguyen, Joseph Oropeza, Dy Quach, Lee Amaya SUMMER/FALL

and skills obtained through continuing education. • Promote the dynamic role of pharmacy by leading interprofes- sional collaboration to advance patient care. • Serve our community selflessly with compassion and dedication. OATH OF PROFESSIONAL • Embody the utmost level of PHARMACY STUDENT Excitement in the integrity and demonstrate the We, the PharmD Students of the highest ethical standards. Class of 2020, pledge to: Air for Class of 2020 • Lead our profession with empathy, • Establish a foundation of respect dignity and patience while devot- rientation week for the Class of 2020 culminated in the great marshmallow and trust with peers and patients ing time to personal growth and challenge, the White Coat ceremony and annual barbecue. With 162 P-1 by demonstrating professionalism lifelong learning. students, this year’s class was the largest in the school’s history. In addition in our community. to being presented to their family and friends as pharmacy candidates, As a member of the class of 2020, I the students were led by fellow P-1 Ryan Sutherlan in reciting the Oath of • Demonstrate confidence and ex- pledge to uphold the ideals and abide OProfessional Pharmacy Student, which they created during orientation week. pertise by utilizing the knowledge by the principles of this document.

of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical “Amongst the handful of students seeking a career in pediatric Sciences alumna who was completing schools I was applying to, CU was pharmacy, and her role as an intern a PGY1 residency at Poudre Valley on a campus with two teaching at the No. 5 nationally ranked Hospital (PVH). hospitals – Children’s and UCH,” Children’s Hospital Colorado, Visage “Monica came and talked about said Visage. “When I spoke with has learned a lot. Most recently, she her residency at PVH and the Monica about pharmacy school, has completed a clinical rotation at different types of rotations you can one thing that stuck out in my Children’s Hospital in oncology and have in hospital pharmacy,” said head was that she said when she bone marrow transplant. Visage. “That’s where I heard about gets students on rotations, CU “I can see from start to finish how her pediatric rotation and that you students stand out and excel above the pharmacist plays a huge role in could specialize in pediatrics. I had the rest. She said everybody can get managing the medication regimen always wanted a career that could a pharmacy education – you can from chemotherapy to a lot of the help benefit children, but I also go to pharmacy school and get the supportive care medications,” said wanted to work in healthcare and same education, but the way that Visage. “These kids often have up pursue the pharmacy route. That’s CU prepares students profession- to 50 medications on their profile, when I realized pediatric pharmacy ally sets this school apart.” so seeing the complexity of care and was exactly what I wanted to do.” Recently, Visage was awarded the seeing the pharmacist’s role in that is A PASSION FOR After three years of under- Pediatric Pharmacy Association’s pretty amazing.” graduate work in chemistry at John Dice Memorial Student It’s a role, she says, that takes a PEDIATRIC CSU, Visage was accepted into Scholarship, given to students who special kind of person. CU’s School of Pharmacy and are interested in pursuing a career “From what I’ve learned from received her Bachelor of Science in pediatric pharmacy and have working with the people over at PHARMACY in Medical Science after her first demonstrated a dedication to the Children’s Hospital, it takes a really year of pharmacy school. The practice – both of which fit Visage special kind of person to be able to program allows students who do to a tee. Only two students in the find the reward in the positive out- ith a strong interest in science and the not have a bachelor’s degree the nation receive this award each year, comes, but not necessarily get set back medical field, Colorado native Rachel opportunity to complete their which Visage considers to be a true by the negative outcomes that can Visage enrolled at Colorado State first year of pharmacy school honor. sometimes happen. It’s very rewarding University and – thanks to an advisor while also earning credit towards Through her work as one of the to work with these kids, and to have a – became a member of CSU’s Pre-Pharmacy Club. It was a bachelor’s degree awarded founding members of CU-PediatRx, job that can have a positive impact on thereW she would meet Monica Evans, a CU Skaggs School through the school. a student organization designed for children.” KAYLA GREEN

www.ucdenver.edu/pharmacy 3 SUMMER/FALL

for patients with medulloblastoma to improve the effectiveness and outcomes of existing therapy. Dr. Vibhakar’s group identified WEE1, a critical component of cell division that serves as a checkpoint to maintain the integrity of DNA replication, as a potential new target in medulloblasto- ma. At the same time, another group in the Department of Pediatrics headed by Dr. Porter, identified WEE1 as a potential therapeutic target in leukemia. Dr. Reigan’s group was pivotal to support- ing these studies as they were able to chemically synthesize the known WEE1 inhibitor AZD1775 for Dr. Vibhakar’s and Dr. Porter’s groups to use in their studies to evaluate the effect of WEE1 inhibition in these cancers. Overall, these studies demonstrated that the known WEE1 inhibitor AZD1775 sensitized the cancer cells to chemotherapy and lower doses of chemotherapy could be used to kill the cancer cells.

OPPORTUNITY TO IMPROVE A DRUG n interesting observation in both of these studies, in different cancer types,A was that the WEE1 inhibitor AZD1775 was a potent inhibitor of cancer cell growth in its own right as a single agent. This was interesting to Dr. WEE1 IS NO SMALL MATTER Reigan as WEE1 inhibition should in fact promote cancer cell growth as it takes the brakes off cell division, eventually IN FIGHT AGAINST CANCER resulting in a build up of DNA replication errors over time, and eventually cell death. This mechanism of action is the basis of the rationale for combining or Philip Reigan, PhD, Assistant Professor of collaborative efforts to develop new AZD1775 with DNA-damaging chemo- Medicinal Chemistry, the quest to find new and therapeutics for the treatment of child- therapy, to prevent WEE1 from stopping improved anticancer agents has been supported hood brain tumors. Medulloblastoma the cell cycle to repair DNA damage, by two critical collaborations. The first has been is the most common brain tumor in thereby promoting the effectiveness with the pharmaceutical industry, a necessary children and although the cure rates of chemotherapy. This prompted Dr. partnership to support the progress toward a suc- for this cancer are good, the high doses Reigan to search the literature to see cessful market-ready drug and to make scientific of chemotherapy required to treat how much structure-activity relationship progress on a global scale. The other has been the disease often have life-long side work had been done around AZD1775. with investigators on the University of Colorado effects, such as deafness. Furthermore, “Surprisingly, no analogs of AZD1775 Anschutz Medical Campus (CU-AMC) and this showcases state-of-the- there is a medulloblastoma sub-type or their activity against WEE1 had been art research facilities, proximity to clinical expertise and resources, and that is resistant to even high-dose reported in the literature, this gave us Finter-disciplinary culture that promotes research and supports the value chemotherapy. The main challenge in the green light to design, synthesize, of scientific discoveries, that in turn is attractive to industry partners. the treatment of medulloblastoma is to and evaluate AZD1775 analogs and sensitize the tumor to chemotherapy in determine the structural features of FORGING COLLABORATIONS order to reduce the dose of the cytotoxic the drug that were necessary for WEE1 hen Dr. Reigan joined the faculty at the Skaggs School of therapies while maintaining or improv- Inhibition” says Dr. Reigan. “So we Pharmacy in 2010, he contacted Drs. Nicolas Foreman and ing their clinical effectiveness. Therefore, systematically removed and/or replaced WRajeev Vibhakar at the Department of Pediatrics, CU-AMC, to initiate there is a need to develop new therapies parts of the AZD1775 structure, and

4 CU Skaggs School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences found that even small changes in the chemi- cal structure of the drug had a dramatic effect on biological activity.” Dr. Reigan’s group published their work on AZD1775 analogs in ACS Chemistry and Biology earlier this year. The headline result of their work was that they found that WEE1 inhibition could be achieved with one of their analogs without the cellular toxicity observed with AZD1775, and that WEE1 inhibition improved the activity of cisplatin.

A PROMISING PARTNERSHIP AND FUTURE CHALLENGES n 2013 AstraZeneca entered into a license agreement with Merck & Co Inc. for IAZD1775 (formerly MK1775) the small mol- ecule inhibitor of WEE1. Astrazeneca are now evaluating AZD1775 in different cancer types in combination with standard chemotherapy in multiple clinical trials. In 2015, Dr. Reigan’s HEALTH WARNING group presented data on their WEE1 inhibi- tors at the AACR-NCI-EORTC International Commonly used drugs may trigger or worsen heart failure Conference on Molecular Targets and Cancer Therapeutics and had productive discussions with representatives from AstraZeneca. Dr. aculty member Robert L. Page, PharmD, was the Reigan has had a prior working relationship lead author on an American Heart Association with AstraZeneca during his graduate studies, and is optimistic about the prospect of work- (AHA) scientific statement, published inCirculation , ing with them in targeting WEE1. that cautioned patients and physicians about Reigan says, “Although AZD1775 has how commonly used medications and nutritional been progressing well in clinical trial, there supplements may cause or worsen heart failure. are some potential problems in that a recent article reported that AZD1775 has FThe statement provides information contain significant amounts of sodium, limited distribution across the blood-brain about specific drugs and “natural” remedies which is usually restricted in patients barrier, that is in agreement with Dr. Reigan’s that may have serious unintended conse- with heart failure. findings, and therefore the drug may have quences for heart failure patients. “Patients have been taught to read limited effect in brain tumor patients.” “Since many of the drugs heart failure food labels for sodium content, but they However, Dr. Reigan is not deterred. “We patients take are prescribed for conditions also need to read labels on over-the- are currently the only people synthesizing such as cancer, neurological conditions, or in- counter medications and natural supple- AZD1775 analogs in order to determine the fections, it is crucial but difficult for healthcare ments,” Page said. structural components of the drug required providers to reconcile whether a medication is Many supplements used in comple- for WEE1 inhibition, now we are developing interacting with heart failure drugs or making mentary and alternative medicine can be analogs that are designed to have improved heart failure worse,” said Page. dangerous for people with heart failure, in- brain distribution.” Despite the challenges, Dr. Healthcare providers should talk to cluding products containing ephedra, which Reigan says, “I think we’re doing something patients with heart failure at every visit interferes with heart failure medications. that can be ultimately of benefit to someone about all prescription and over-the-counter “Keep a list of all your medications and suffering from cancer. Admittedly, the route medications, supplements and herbs they doses to show at every medical visit, and from the chemistry lab to the clinic is a long may be taking, said Page. inform a healthcare provider treating your and often fraught path, but strategic and In addition to prescription medica- heart failure before stopping or starting synergistic collaborations can increase the tions, over-the-counter drugs may also any medication. Ideally, there should be a chances of success.” have unintended consequences for heart ’captain’ who oversees your medications. failure patients. For example, non-steroidal This person might be a physician, advanced Dr. Reigan’s paper “Targeting Wee1 Kinase in anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), including practice nurse, nurse or a pharmacist who is Cancer” is the cover story for the October 2016 commonly used painkillers, such as ibu- managing your heart failure,” Page said. issue of the journal Trends in Pharmacological profen, can trigger or worsen heart failure “My hope is that this statement will be Sciences. JEREMY SIMON by causing sodium and fluid retention and used by healthcare providers in all medical making diuretic medications less effective. specialties to educate themselves about Over-the-counter heartburn drugs that can exacerbate or cause heart medications and cold remedies may also failure,” Page said.

www.ucdenver.edu/pharmacy 5 SUMMER/FALL

PETE ANDERSON’S LAB DEVELOPS NEW TEST TO DETERMINE ADHERENCE TO HIV DRUGS

Skaggs School of Pharmacy Professor Peter Anderson, PharmD, and lab manager Lane Bushman, together with col- leagues, developed a technique that estimates an HIV-negative CU patient’s adherence to drugs prescribed to prevent HIV trans- mission. The test is being used in research internationally and could have widespread application for other drugs that require objective measurement of patient adherence to dosing. The technique measures for traces of antiretroviral drugs in dried blood spots to estimate how much of the pre-exposure prophylactic (PrEP) medication a patient has used. Truvada, the only FDA-approved antiretroviral PrEP drug for HIV prevention, is proven more than 90 percent effective in stopping HIV transmission during sex – in those who use it consistently. The assay technique provides an objective way to tell if patients are using PrEP consistently. Dr. Anderson and his lab at the Skaggs School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, created the method of taking a sample of blood on an absorbent paper-like card and measuring for concentrations of the drugs in the dried red blood cells. According to Anderson, “The drug builds up in these cells only if the patient takes it consistently.” “There’s a need to objectively measure PrEP adherence because traditional ways have accurate biomarker to predict the not been very effective,” said Anderson, PharmD. “This assay takes advantage of the long onset or progression of seizures half-life of PrEP medication in red blood cells. This means the drug builds up in these cells DISCOVERY associated with epilepsy. Using a only if the patient takes it consistently.” OF REDOX rat model, it was determined that The method is to spot a sample of a patient’s blood on an absorbent paper-like card and decreased cysteine/cystine ratio send it to a lab that isolates and measures concentrations of PrEP drugs found in dried BIOMARKER in plasma may serve as a redox red blood cells. These drugs’ presence are measured to estimate how many doses a patient biomarker in epilepsy. has taken over the last month or two. Clinicians then have an objective measurement COULD Specifically, seizures were that shows if a patient is using PrEP effectively. Studies show that people using the PreP BE GAME chemically-induced in rats, which method are most successful when medication is used consistently. were then monitored closely The lab manager at the CU Skaggs School of Pharmacy who developed the assay, CHANGER IN for behavioral changes. Plasma Lane Bushman, said, “Most cell sample collections require significant effort for pro- EPILEPSY was then taken from the rats cessing, but the dried blood spot is an easy sample collection technique. This helps with 48 hours and 12 weeks after implementing the test in most settings.” treatment to mimic acute and Anderson said, “This assay has been in high demand for PrEP studies. We recently helped pproximately 2.9 chronic epileptic conditions. It a South African lab to develop the method to help with testing demand in that region.” million people in the was found that cysteine/cystine The assay is now being used in research internationally and the approach could have ap- A United States suffer ratio was an accurate redox plication for other drugs that require accurate measurement of patient adherence to dosing. from epilepsy, according to the biomarker for epilepsy. Plasma “We now have a grant to develop a way to do the testing at bedside,” Anderson said. CDC. For patients living with this cysteine/cystine was reduced “We also see applications for other medications. For example, our colleague Dr. Jennifer diagnosis and their doctors, it is over 60 percent in rats with acute Kiser is evaluating if a similar test could work for Hepatitis-C medications.” often difficult to predict the onset epileptic responses and over Anderson’s research, supported by the National Institutes of Health, is ongoing with or progression of chronic seizures. 37 percent in rats with chronic studies now underway at the University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus and col- Thanks to a newly published study epilepsy. Interestingly, cysteine/ laborating institutions. from the University of Colorado cystine ratio was unaltered in rats Skaggs School of Pharmacy and also treated with an antioxidant Pharmaceutical Sciences, that may known to prevent epileptic brain be changing. injury. The study (www.sciencedi- “Currently the field of epilepsy rect.com/science/article/pii/ lacks peripheral blood-based S2213231716300349), led by Drs. biomarkers that could predict the Manisha Patel and Li-Ping Liang, onset or progression of chronic was recently published in Redox seizures following an epileptogen- Biology, a journal of the Society ic injury,” said Dr. Manisha Patel for Redox Biology and Medicine a Professor at the University of (SFRBM). Colorado School of Pharmacy and The study was designed SFRBM Member. “We are confident to determine if the ratio of that this study is a significant step reduced and oxidized forms of an toward changing this, and will amino acid, cysteine and cystine one day help those living with Lane Bushman and Peter Anderson (L-R) developed a technique that estimates an HIV-negative patient’s adherence to HIV drugs. respectively, could serve as an temporal lobe epilepsy.”

6 CU Skaggs School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences SUMMER/FALL COMMENCEMENT 2016 ats off to the CU Pharmacy Class of 2016! This year, 149 students from the entry-level PharmD program, and 63 from the distance degree program received their Doctor of Pharmacy degrees. Eleven students received their Doctor of Philosophy degrees. Held at the Denver Performing Arts Complex in the Boettcher Concert Hall, speak- ers included Dean Ralph Altiere, Chancellor’s Teaching Recognition Award recipient HDr. Scott Mueller, President’s Excellence in Teaching Award recipient Dr. Robert Page, and graduating P-4 Matthew McClure. In Mueller’s speech, he impressed upon the graduates the value of their education and where it will take them (and, hopefully, how it will bring them back to the School someday), while Page reminisced about the class and the profession. “You are all my rockstars. I never want you to apologize for who you are or what you believe in,” said Page. “This profession is full of a network of friends and colleagues. I want you to take every opportunity to love, to laugh, and to be loved. Go and rock the world, and show them what the Class of 2016 can do!” Matt McClure's speech is definitely one-of-kind. Read snippets of it below, or check out his entire speech on our YouTube channel. SIERRA HILL

GRADUATION SPEECH ODE TO DRUGS BY MATT MCCLURE Drugs. You are the reason I always stayed up so late Felt exhausted all the time looked for the core reason for why all of us have Wore the same white coat three days in a row gathered here today, and what I found is this: We Questioned my Life Choices I are all here beaming with joy because of one thing. Thanks Drugs! We are here for DRUGS, obviously. We are here for the Drugs. You’re the reason I did really hard math for the last drugs. Without drugs, we would not be here today. 4 years Calculated on CasioFX-260SOLAR calculator, syllabus So doctors, fellow graduates, my peers, and my colleagues approved, from Walmart I just want to say this and let this sink in for a second. The finest calculating instrument known to the School Today, will be the only day that having six figures of debt of Pharmacy and being associated with drugs has actually made your All in the pursuit of Drugs. Thanks Drugs! parents proud of you. Drugs. I have been in and out of multiple hospitals. Seen multiple doctors, nurses, PA, DO’s, CNA’s So to that extent, Congratulations class of 2016, we did it! I’ve talked to them all I have been exposed to so many different disease states because of you

PAIGE RICE Thanks Drugs! Drugs. You are the closest thing to make me feel like a wizard With combination names like FOLFOX and FOLFIRI You give me the ability to paralyze, cure infections, make

SPECIAL SECTION someone go mad, make the mad go calm. We are extremely proud to call the Class Thank you drugs. of 2016 alumni, and can’t wait to see Drugs. I sat in small crowded rooms self reflecting on you the effect they will have on their chosen Thinking of better ways to use you profession. The following special section Telling other people better ways to use you highlights several members of the Class Thanks Drugs! of 2016 – their accomplishments, unique Drugs. I traveled to rural Colorado for you interests and talents, and future plans. We I worked for free for you know we have not heard the last of this In fact, I paid to work for you Thank you Drugs! extraordinary group of people. Drugs. You’re the reason we are all here today. MATT McCLURE Thank you so, so very much, drugs. MATT McCLURE

www.ucdenver.edu/pharmacy 7 SUMMER/FALL

MILITARY STUDENTS FIND FUTURE IN PHARMACY

or many students, the path to pharmacy is clear. They graduate high school, go on to DANIEL SALTZMAN college, and eventually continue on for four more years in pharmacy school. But for Robert Minchin spent the following the military instills in you, Minchin and Daniel Saltzman, their paths years as a pharmacy technician you’re really set up for success were a little less traditional, having enlisted in “I think the for the military – dispensing in school,” said Saltzman. “You the military prior to pharmacy ever crossing their minds. F medications for his fellow com- go through some hard times in biggest thing you “Back then I was heavy into the fighting scene, like the UFC. rades and high-ranking military the military where you always After I lost my first fight, I decided to join the Navy to become a learn in military officials on hospital ships and have to remind yourself how SEAL,” said Minchin. at the National Naval Medical much greener the grass is on the is perseverance, At the time he had no idea this decision would lead him Center in Bethesda, Md. The other side, and I think that same down the pharmacy path. experience ultimately led him to mentality works out in pharmacy and coupled with “You take a test at the beginning of your naval experience apply for pharmacy school. school, too, because there are that tells you what you’re qualified for, and I qualified to be a the discipline the Saltzman, however, enlisted some rough times in pharmacy corpsman, or a medic, and I thought that would be useful on in the army and served as an school. It’s a lot of work.” military instills in the SEAL teams,” said Minchin. “I did very well in the course- infantryman for three tours But even so, Saltzman and work, so they offered me another school, and that’s where you, you’re really in Iraq. It wasn’t until after he Minchin don’t ‘sweat the small pharmacy came in. I could have been an X-ray tech or physical landed an assistant manager things.’ set up for success therapy tech, but with pharmacy school, I thought I would position at a local Walgreens “One of the more defin- learn about all the supplements I was using for my training, so that he began thinking of a ing moments for me in the in school.” I picked pharmacy school.... I learned nothing about supple- career in pharmacy. The posi- navy was my time in Basic - DANIEL SALTZMAN ments,” he laughed. tion, along with the advice of a Underwater Demolition/ Seal friend, propelled him to begin training– it’s the best and applying for pharmacy school. worst time of your life – you’re “I began thinking about cold, wet, and sandy all the pharmacy school while I was time and there’s no end in deployed, and I knew I wanted sight, so when you’re studying to go to a prestigious school, at two in the morning, tired, because I wanted to make sure it’s not as bad as what it could my doctorate counted more,” be. That kind of thing molds said Saltzman. “CU ranked highly you into a different kind of – I knew it had all new facili- person – you don’t sweat the ties – and it just jumped out at little things as much – you me. Plus, Colorado has a benefit have a profound perspective where veterans can get in-state of how miserable things can tuition as soon as they get here.” be, so pharmacy school’s not For both Saltzman and so bad,” said Minchin. Minchin, their experiences in Following graduation, the military proved helpful in Minchin plans to work for pharmacy school. Walgreens and is consider- “I think the biggest thing you ing pursuing an MBA; while learn in military is perseverance, Saltzman’s goal is to work for ROBERT MINCHIN and coupled with the discipline the VA. KAYLA GREEN

8 CU Skaggs School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences SUMMER/FALL

DAWN of an era

he Class of 2016 is known for being in- volved. From service learning projects to community fund-rais- ing events to holiday drives and health fairs, the Class of 2016 has been actively involved with the community since the day students arrived on campus. And that involvement has been paying off Tin terms of national recognition. Three students from this year’s class – Geremi Boom, David Choi and Catherine Derington, together with P-3 Claudia Corona – were recently recognized by the American Colleges of Pharmacy (AACP) for their work with the DAWN Clinic (Dedicated to Aurora’s Wellness and Needs) in Aurora. The team was one of four in the country selected for an Engaged Service Award for helping to establish the clinic, which was conceptualized and developed by students from all healthcare professions on the Anschutz Medical Campus. It’s a partnership between the Aurora community and the campus and is open to uninsured, adult patients every Tuesday night. The student-led and faculty-mentored clinic is showing students headed into L-R: P-3 Claudia Corona, together with P-4s Geremi Boom, David Choi and Catherine Derington the health professions what they can ac- complish when they work together to provide care to underserved members of feel confident that I can take what I’ve learned and communities around them. It encourages students the community. use it to improve other communities and make even to envision their own communities of the future to more of an impact on my world.” enact change.” PRICELESS LESSONS Depending on the demands of their stud- STUDENT IMPACT SHAPING THE FUTURE ies, the student pharmacists often volunteer The AACP award was given to the students in The four agree that the clinic has changed them, 40 hours or more at the clinic each month. recognition of their successful efforts in providing possibly even more than the patients they see. “This They consider the experience to be priceless primary care services to the underserved, building clinic has changed how I will practice as a pharma- in their educational journey. healthy and effective inter-professional relationships cist,” said Choi. “I have seen firsthand the future of “My work with DAWN has been the between trainees and promoting student involve- healthcare. We brought a change to our campus to defining experience of my pre-professional ment and leadership with community-based initia- ensure the success of inter-professional collaboration career,” said Derington. “I’ve learned so tives. Receiving it was gratifying and empowering. in providing care. That is exciting.” much about leadership, volunteerism, com- “So often as students, we feel powerless by our The lessons they learned will help them post-grad- munity engagement, project management, ‘student’ status,” said Derington. “But, even with- uation at their respective PGY-1 residencies. Boom, inter-professionalism, advocacy, teamwork, out a degree, we have so many skills and so much Choi and Derington matched at the Medical Center mentorship, organization, communication, passion. This award is unique, because it recognizes of Aurora, Johns Hopkins in Maryland, and The Ohio healthcare systems and so much more! I that student pharmacists can and do impact the State University Medical Center. MARCIA NEVILLE

www.ucdenver.edu/pharmacy 9 SUMMER/FALL

Greg, Anastasia, Amadeus and Sterling “IT WAS THE BEGINNING OF GETTING MY LIFE TOGETHER. GETTING PREGNANT SAVED

ME.” - ANASTASIA SOSA BELL

As a child, fighting between mother and daughter was constant. “She loved to get high, and never hid anything from me.” At one point, Bell’s mother started growing marijuana in their home, which was eventually raided by the police. Due to the constant fighting between mother and daughter, she ended up in juvenile hall, then a group home. Bell spent most of her teenage years on probation. “The court ordered I get my GED, and I did. When I went to take college classes, I was told I needed remedial classes because I couldn’t even add and subtract negative numbers.” At 19, she was kicked out of her mother’s home, she rented a place, and worked the night shift at a local gas station. She lost the job, and had no place to live. "It was the worst time of my life. I was homeless…not in the traditional sense of downtown with a shopping cart. I was couch surfing on friend’s couches." Bell started living with a friend, and while visiting her mother got into a fight again. And back to jail she went. While in jail, she discovered she was pregnant with her first child, Thaddeus. "It was the beginning of getting my life together. Getting pregnant saved me," admits Bell. By the time she was 24, Bell gave birth to her second son, Amadeus; had been incarcerated several times, was on welfare, and receiving cash assistance. She had few prospects for a better life. But the hard knocks she had received taught her something very valuable. She learned that to have a better life she needed to get a decent pay- ing job, and an education. SECOND CHANCES She ended up living in “a shanty with no electricity. I couldn't afford anything else," From high school drop out to doctor of pharmacy says Bell. “I couldn’t go back to living with my mother. I knew it would end in jail again.” Without electricity, she filled out job applica- tions by candlelight. She got a job with an was going to go to prison or die,” says Anastasia Sosa Vozza Bell. insurance company, Chubb. "It was a great job. A childhood fraught with family dysfunction, clashes between mother and They helped turn my life around, and made daughter, homelessness, and exposure to the seedier side of life, Bell says her life it possible for me to go to school," says Bell. was “full of chaos and drama." The company accommodated her schedule, “ “My mother was a free spirit. She was fun to hang out with because all she allowed her to work part-time, paid her a good wanted to do was party. It took me a long time to realize what I wanted, and how salary, encouraged her to attend classes, and Ito get there,” recalls Bell. even offered a 401K, in which she participated.

10 CU Skaggs School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences SUMMER/FALL

"They were good to me. They believed in me Pharmacists in medical affairs and cared," says Bell. can be involved in medical During that time, she met, and moved in with, education and communication, her boyfriend. "He was a Godsend, and helped me clinical trials, strategic planning be a better person," says Bell. They both were get- and health economics, and ting their lives on track, and began classes at a local outcomes-research activities. community college. "I took chemistry classes, and The training and mentorship started to think about a future," says Bell. that Hill receives through the Bell revisited the idea of pharmacy as a post-doctorate fellowship will possible career – a profession she had aspired prepare her to join a multi- to when she was 13. She became the president disciplinary team as a medica- of the Pre-Pharmacy and S.T.E.M clubs, and tion information expert at the started to weed people out of her life. "I began end of the one-year program. to get a life outside of the chaos of my youth," DANA BRANDORFF says Bell. After accruing credits for pharmacy school, she applied to two programs – Las Vegas and CU – and interviewed at both. The CU inter- RUTGERS view was a stretch. "I bought a suit, flew out, and PHARMACEUTICAL rented a car – that was a huge financial burden A CAREER for me," recalls Bell. But when she arrived on INDUSTRY campus she was informed that she was short FELLOWSHIP one class. Her immediate thought was, "Why LESS TRAVELED PROGRAM (RPIF) come all this way for disappointment?" She ierra Hill's path to pharmacy has been unconventional. thought about chucking it in, and going over After receiving her bachelor's degree in Molecular Cellular More than 30 years ago, to the Coors Brewery for a free beer and tour & Development Biology (MCDB) from CU-Boulder, she Rutgers, The State University to commiserate, but something made her stay. went to the U.K. where she worked for the Royal College of New Jersey, the Ernest "I decided to stick it out, and do the interviews of Radiologists in England and then the Royal College of Mario School of Pharmacy, just for practice," says Bell. And, it paid off. She Surgeons in Ireland. "I wanted to be a citizen of the world. and a pharmaceutical received a letter of acceptance, but it required SAnd, ultimately, my global work experience helped to mold my career company began a col- she complete the one class she was lacking. She path," says Hill. laborative pilot program deferred entrance into the program for one year Her undergraduate degree provided her with a strong scientific to evaluate the potential until she could take the class, and prepare to foundation, but she knew she wanted to do more and a degree in move to Colorado with her two boys. pharmacy would provide her with experience on the patient and contributions of clinically- During pharmacy school, Bell excelled. She clinical side. "I thought pharmacy was an interesting career path with trained pharmacists within also met her husband, Greg, and had a third son, a vast number of opportunities," says Hill. So, she applied to, and was a pharmaceutical industry Sterling, during her third year of the program. accepted into, the program. practice setting. Following “Greg put his schooling on hold, so I could She worked in clinical trial management prior to school, and was a the successful pilot, the RPIF complete the program. He works the graveyard student trainee at the FDA, and an inpatient clinical pharmacy intern Program expanded to include shift, and helps with our son. He’s an amazing at University of Colorado Hospital while at pharmacy school. These 18 companies within the father and husband,” says Bell. experiences gave Hill an entirely different perspective when pursuing pharmaceutical and biophar- For Bell, her journey has not been easy. It’s her PharmD and determining her future career path. "I was seeking a been long, and fraught with a lot of bumps position where I could use my clinical training as a PharmD and the maceutical industries and along the way. "But there is light at the end of unique international and domestic work experiences to bring a dual over 150 fellows annually. the tunnel," says Bell. For Bell, the difference has perspective to enhance patient outcomes on a national scale.” The program has helped drive been the people who helped her, and believed in During pharmacy school she began researching more roles for those the demand for the growing her when others didn’t. Those are the people she with a PharmD and was fascinated by the business side of pharmacy. “I number of employment considers “family.” networked with pharmacists working in industry and I was intrigued to opportunities for clinical Today, Bell's future is bright. She has a learn about different roles pharmacists hold,” says Hill. Roles tailor-made pharmacists in industry. The pharmacy job with Walgreens in Northern for pharmacists that merge the scientific knowledge and background Colorado, and has a beautiful family. According with communications skills that are integral to the PharmD program can program has Fellowships to Bell, "I'm grateful that my life is no longer full be found within the pharmaceutical industry. Positions include medical both on the east and west of chaos and dysfunction. Now it's the normal affairs, medical science liaison, regulatory affairs and clinical operations. coasts and offers training in chaos of family and school. I love the calmness, According to Hill, this growing field is perfect for her. "I did a most drug development and and know that it could have been so very lot of research to find the position and company that was right commercialization areas. different." DANA BRANDORFF for me," says Hill. The position that she located is through a fel- lowship program through Rutgers University in medical affairs Learn more about the at Genentech. “In my role as a fellow in medical affairs, I provide program at www.pharmafel- scientific support for a drug in late-stage clinical development.” lows.rutgers.edu/

www.ucdenver.edu/pharmacy 11 SUMMER/FALL

to the honors thesis, she has also worked the opportunity to make a huge impact.” with Dr. Aquilante on genetics research. Alford pursued a residency with gusto. Combining Alford's background She applied to 12 residency sites, received in industry with her education in 11 offers to interview, conducted eight pharmacy has helped her "appreciate the interviews and ultimately matched with whole process from an idea to a drug to her number 1 choice. "Something just the patient and the end result." clicked. I've never met more friendly or You can be sure that whatever path passionate people. This residency really Alford takes, she will have a hand in aligned with my strengths,” says Alford. research. After graduation, she landed So, when Alford left for her residency a PGY-1 residency at Salt Lake City in June, the twins were separated – some- Veterans Administration (VA) where thing that has happened infrequently she is practicing at the top of her license. throughout their lives. “It will be an According to Alford, "The VA is unique. adjustment,” says Alford. The last day that Pharmacists there have more authority to fellow classmates were treated to the two do things and that appeals to me. There's together was at commencement when Dr. aylor Alford always knew she had a even the potential for research. The Willden hooded her sister, Dr. Alford. population is underserved, and I'll have DANA BRANDORFF doppelganger. But few people at the Anschutz Medical Campus knew. Her identical twin, Naomi Willden, was enrolled in the School of Dental Medicine Doctor of Dental Surgery program while Taylor studied pharmacy. During their three years on campus together, fellow students and faculty would often ask Taylor, "Where's your scrubs? Why did you change Tyour clothes? Why are you wearing a lab coat?" Few on campus realized that they were she embarked on a research career with actually seeing double. The probability Gilead Sciences, an American biophar- of being an identical twin is 1 in 285. maceutical company. "It was a natural fit Unusual, but not too remarkable. By those to go into industry. I really liked creating odds, there should be at least seven sets of potential drugs. And at that time had no identical twins on the Anschutz Campus. thought of pursuing a pharmacy degree," But add to that the fact that fewer than says Alford. 2 percent of the U.S. population aged But after a while on the job, she 25+ has studied for a doctorate and the began to think about the clinical side likelihood that students on one campus are and how drugs go into humans. She related – or an identical twin – is miniscule. toyed with pursuing a PhD, but ulti- This select group is so small that seeing mately decided on a PharmD, because double doesn't even cross fellow students' "Research is a silo. You don't necessarily minds. That's why when students saw the see the impact of what you are doing. Twins Naomi Willden and Taylor Alford enjoy time together at Taylor's graduation from pharmacy school twins in separate settings they just assumed And, potentially a PharmD offers a they were the same person. more secure job market because you can Raised by a single mother who pursue patient care or the research side. believed in the importance of education, There's a lot of opportunity.” the sisters pursued professional degrees While in pharmacy school, she’s still with a single-minded passion. had a hand in research – originally doing Both received undergraduate degrees some at National Jewish Health on the FIRST-GEN STUDENT from CU Boulder. Willden received a BA mollecular effects of viruses on the lung. in Economic Affairs, and then obtained She then worked with faculty member FINDS PASSION IN PHARMACY her prerequisites for the dental program Christina Aquilante, PharmD, on her from Metro State. Alford received her un- honors thesis investigating the impact steban Montemayor moved to the United States from Mexico when he was five, and dergraduate degree in Molecular Cellular of artificial circulation devices (left became a naturalized citizen at 18. For Montemayor, the journey hasn’t always been easy. & Development Biology (MCDB) from ventricular assist devices) on patients “Everything I did was by myself – scheduling my classes, being the first one to go to CU-Boulder in 2010. After graduation, awaiting heart transplants. In addition E college, and transitioning from being with my family to being more independent when I

12 CU Skaggs School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences SUMMER/FALL

automatically forwarded to the next health post, so the Community Agents of Health would know COMING TO CU IN PERU which health post was currently staffed before making their journey,” he said. “The app would also AMERICA allow the tech to send back lab results from tests, uoc Ho came to America cutting the volunteers’ journeys in half.” when he was eight years ichael Carpenter’s experience at As rewarding as the experience is, Carpenter Q old. The Vietnamese native CU’s School of Pharmacy has says it hasn’t been easy. arrived in California with his parents been vastly different than most. “I learned a lot about education and changing and two older sisters in 1996. As a third As part of CU Peru, Carpenter people’s behaviors and how difficult of a task that grader, the only language he knew was has gained a unique global ex- is – working with a culture so far removed from Vietnamese. "It was sink or swim, so I perience unlike any other. what you’re used to,” he said. “You’re about as smart learned English quickly," recalls Ho. And CU Peru, an interdisciplinary organization as a six-year-old in their society.” that's been his modus operandi ever since made up of students from a variety of University of As the current CEO of CU Peru, Carpenter says – learn the lay of the land quickly, and MColorado schools, seeks to support local Peruvian the experience has also allowed him the opportunity use the knowledge to propel forward. communities by helping them with both educational to learn the ins and outs of running an organization. After graduating from high school, training and triaging assistance. It’s an initiative Ho started undergraduate studies at UCLA and graduated with a Carpenter says that ultimately led to his decision to bachelor's degree in Microbiology, Immunology, and Molecular attend CU’s Skaggs School of Pharmacy. Genetics in 2011. While at UCLA, he was involved in a preclinical study “I thought it was really great to be able to work for a prostate cancer drug, which is now in a phase 3 clinical trial in with so many different kinds of people from so France. "I really liked it. I got hands on experience in the lab and was many different disciplines,” said Carpenter. “And I listed as an author on a published study. I kind of caught the research wanted to travel and continue to improve upon my bug," says Ho. Spanish and serve underserved populations.” During that time, he started to think about what he wanted to do in CU Peru students team up with Community the future. "I was concerned that I would be boxed into research if I got Agents of Health, or Peruvian volunteer workers a PhD and would have to rely on grants. I began to look at career paths who were elected by their village to serve as the where I could still practice clinically and do research, as well. Pharmacy town’s healthcare official. rose to the top of my list. It was the closest to what I wanted to do." “They are usually people who have no official train- Ho has taken advantage of every opportunity provided to him. ing in towns where health posts and officials are hours During his fourth year of pharmacy school, he specifically signed up for a away by boat,” said Carpenter. “Often, the volunteers rotation with Allergan, a diversified global pharmaceutical company. He will have to bring a test by boat to the health post, and was selected because of his background in research. His preceptor was then go back days later to get the lab results.” alumnus Kevin Kerr (PharmD '11). "I looked at the rotation as a six-week Carpenter, along with another student, has Michael Carpenter and Master of Public Health student, Allison Maytag, interview, and got to know them very well," says Ho. been working to solve this problem, and recently work together in Peru. As a consequence of the rotation and the relationships he built, received a small grant from Poverty Hack. It’s a Ho lined up a fellowship with Allergan which he began immedi- competition they applied to that focuses entirely “You have to pay taxes and find ways to keep ately following graduation. His research is on age related macular on solving problems of global poverty. Their members happy when you’re running a fully degeneration and finding a drug that halts the progression of the idea? To develop a mobile app where community functioning nonprofit,” he said. “I understand a lot disease. "There's really no treatment on the market, so there's huge volunteers are able to send texts directly to the more now about where leadership is coming from.” unmet need," says Ho. "I'll be working on creating a study, obtaining health posts via 2G cell networks. Carpenter's goal post-graduation is to snag a job the data, analyzing it and publishing. It’s really going to be exciting." “The app would allow the Community in a Spanish-speaking clinic, helping serve undocu- When Ho walked at this year's commencement, he was the first in Agents of Health to text the health post tech, mented immigrants, in addition to serving as a CU his entire family to receive a doctorate. His PharmD came with minors and if they’re not available, the message would be Peru alumnus. KAYLA GREEN in hard work, drive and determination. DANA BRANDORFF

came to pharmacy school,” said Montemayor. After naturalization, he pursued a “So, I applied to pharmacy school. At the Then, ten years out, I hope to be doing “I was always fascinated by the pharmacol- bachelor’s in biochemistry and biotechnol- time of the interview, CU seemed promising: continuous research and teaching,” he said. ogy of drugs, but I had no background in ogy from West Texas A & M University. it had a lot of prestige, and it was a well- At commencement, Montemayor drugs. I had no family members who were During the summer before his senior year known school, so I figured it would be a good was surrounded by family and friends in the medical or pharmacy profession, and of college, Montemayor completed an opportunity for me to learn,” he said. celebrating his accomplishments. I never worked in a pharmacy before,” he internship in Michigan where he focused Following graduation, Montemayor “I see how much my parents have helped said. “So, I actually learned about pharmacy on cellular properties and the impact accepted a residency at JPS in Dallas where me progress – this was more to show them from a brochure my sophomore year in high medications have on them, ultimately, he is focusing on acute care. “I think after this that people who come from somewhere else school, as weird as that sounds.” solidifying his interest in pharmacy. residency I may apply for a second residency. can be something.” KAYLA GREEN

www.ucdenver.edu/pharmacy 13 SUMMER/FALL

Melissa Laub, right, on the top of the Santa Maria Volcano. rotation, our faculty encouraged us to perform our own needs FAST FRIENDS assessment of the pharmacy, and SINCE FIRST GRADE we were given the autonomy to ew people can say that they have attended determine which projects we elementary, junior high, high school and graduate think would be most beneficial school together, and remained friends throughout. to focus on during our time But Trevor Juth and Lydia Hebbert can. there. One of my goals was to F "We met in first grade," says Hebbert. develop guides and resources to The two walked to Sanborn Elementary School together, help future pharmacy students along with a fellow classmate from their Longmont neighborhood. interested in this rotation.” "Trevor lived closer to school than we did. So, we'd walk right by The time spent in Guatemala his house, and he'd join us on our trek every day." also provided students another Through Longmont High School, Trevor and Lydia ran in the perspective on how pharmacy is same circles. They hung out in groups together, and went to prom managed in other countries. with a group of friends. However, according to Juth, "Lydia was a “Being down there, you see rock star. She was academically the one you knew was going on to the polar opposite of how phar- do amazing things." macy is managed in America as The only time the two separated was when Juth attended opposed to other countries,” said Otero Junior College to accumulate his requirements for graduate McClure. “Here, it’s very guarded school, and Hebbert went off to the Colorado School of Mines. As and regulated; there, it’s a sort a consequence, they drifted apart, but started talking again their of free-for-all, and there can be sophomore year, and discovered their mutual interest in pharmacy. benefits to both. Here, you have They took the PCAT (Pharmacy entrance exam), compared scores, to see a doctor before getting a applied to CU’s pharmacy school at the same time, did their GOING GLOBAL prescription; while there, they interviews, and received their acceptance letters a week apart. can just walk up to any pharmacy and get what they need. ” Now back home, all three new rotation based out of Guatemala gave P-4 are in for a new journeys after students Matthew McClure, Melissa Laub, and graduation. Laub is completing Chandler Follett the experience of a lifetime. a PGY1 Residency at the Mayo Nestled in a banana plantation just 30 Clinic in Rochester, MN. kilometers off the coast and a 45-minute Following, she plans to pursue drive to the nearest city, the students spent a PGY2 that focuses on organ their time conducting screenings, dispensing medications, and transplant pharmacy, and consulting with patients. someday complete a Master’s of A“I've always believed if there is anywhere we as pharmacists Public Health. should be focusing our energy, it's in developing countries,” said McClure started a PGY1 Follett. “I am passionate about passing on my education to those residency at a level-two trauma without educational opportunities, and I knew Guatemala was a hospital in Boise, Id. chance to do exactly that.” And Follett plans to work The experience not only gave them hands-on opportunities with underserved communities "It was just like old times," says Juth. The two were back together to practice what they’d learned over the past three years, but also in Colorado while pursuing a again. The only difference — Hebbert was married and Juth was dat- challenged them to make the rotation their own. Master’s in Global Public Health ing Krista Levin, a fellow pharmacy student, who was soon to become “Pharmacy students have the opportunity to interact directly and learning French. Long-term, his fiancée. The couples became, and continue to be, fast friends. Today, with patients, assist the pharmacy technician, and develop plans she wants to work for Doctors Hebbert is working as a hospital pharmacist with Longmont United and with the doctors and residents,” said Laub. “Because this is a new Without Borders. KAYLA GREEN Juth is a staff pharmacist at Longmont CVS. DANA BRANDORFF

Immaculata Anyanwu Jacqueline Desrosiers 63 PharmD degrees conferred LIST OF THE Shameema Begum Momen El Ghazouly through DDP Program GRADS BY DISTANCE Janica Chan Darlington Etumni 13 August 2015 graduates NAME Humphrey Cheung Patricia Evacko December 2015 graduates (May candidates in bold ) DEGREES & 24 Jenny Chiu Kazi Fattah 26 May 2016 candidates (projected) Eslam Abdel Magid Sara Compani-Azad Kofi Fosu PROGRAMS 30 Number attending ceremonies Doaa Abdelazim Lesley Corkum Yogendree Hammond

14 CU Skaggs School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences she feels has come in handy as a working pharmacist pursuing a doctor of pharmacy degree long distance. As a KARATE KID pharmacist owner, Tulk encounters high stress situations. hristina Tulk of Corner Brook, “Karate has helped keep my emotions in check – especially Newfoundland, Canada, came of age during patient interactions that can escalate quickly when during the Karate Kid, Mr. Miyagi and patients are scared, dealing with insurance, or concerned Ralph Machio craze of the 1980s. She about themselves or a family member.” was 9 years old when the movie hit As a business owner, Tulk realized that if she wanted theaters. “That’s when I got bit by the to be involved in advanced scope of practice, which is Ckarate bug. I am 40 years old and still at it,” says Tulk. where the profession is headed in Canada, she had to Karate teaches discipline, self-control, confidence, complete a doctorate. She was first accepted into the and drive – all necessary qualities to attain a third University of Toronto’s program, but ultimately chose

degree black belt, and a doctor of pharmacy while CU because she had heard so many good things from CHRISTINA TULK AND KANCHO TAKEMASA OKUYAMA working. Only 10 percent of students of karate ever fellow Canadians and graduates. “I had been a working receive a black belt. One percent achieve a second, retail pharmacist for years before I started to pursue Armed with her doctorate and the experience third or fourth degree black belt. “It is not something a this degree. Karate has really helped me keep focused she attained during the program, she has lot of individuals can claim,” says Tulk. “One of my most through this program,” says Tulk. extra knowledge and confidence in the clinical proud accomplishments is to be called ‘Sensei’.” The For Tulk who is also a preceptor for Memorial environment – allowing Tulk to take on the mantle of title, which means teacher, was conferred on her when University School of Pharmacy, the teacher became the Sensei, not just in karate, but in the field of pharmacy, she received her third degree black belt. student. “I had zero experience in hospital pharmacy, too. “This degree has already opened doors for me,” According to Tulk, “Karate teaches control over yourself and had to step out of my comfort zone, especially says Tulk, who has aspirations of teaching at Memorial – control over your movement and your mind.” Something during rotations,” says Tulk. University School of Pharmacy. DANA BRANDORFF

After graduating high school allowed Gaieb new opportunities for VALUE OF FAMILY in Tunisia, Gaieb set his sights on growth and development. America and enrolled at California “Being away from my family was the State University Long Beach. There, he biggest challenge, but over time, I was AND PHARMACY majored in general biology in prepara- able to overcome that challenge and tion for pharmacy school. focus more on my educational goals,” he In 2012, Gaieb enrolled at CU’s said. “This experience not only helped Skaggs School of Pharmacy, a decision, me build a strong personality, but, also, riss Gaieb comes from a family of he says, that was based on several factors. I learned to be patient in life, to be pharmacists. Growing up in Tunisia “I chose CU, because of its well-known independent, to rely on myself and be where his father and uncle were rural pharmacy program, its proximity to confident in my decisions in life.” pharmacists, he learned first-hand the many hospitals that are well-known in the Upon graduation, Gaieb plans to role they play in their communities. nation, its cultural diverse student popula- work in a community pharmacy. “Pharmacy has always been part of my life since tion, its interprofessional focus, and being “I love talking and interacting with Da young age. My father really inspired me with his able to interact with other students from diverse patients, and I think it is very hard work, dedication, and love for his patients,” said other healthcare professions,” he said. rewarding to me to be able to have a Gaieb. “Growing up, I wanted to follow his footsteps, And while being far from home positive impact on someone's life and and become a successful pharmacist like him.” came with its challenges, it also health,” said Gaieb. KAYLA GREEN

Alan Horeczko Hyunjoo Kil Sara Mills Ka Yee Ng Frederick Owusu-Ofori Michael Spinrad Christina Tulk Shiri Iskander Loretta Lau Hyder Mohamed Olivia Ng Gail Pearson Ashley Sproul Julio Viola Henry Iwebor Jian Liang Preveshen Naidoo Maria Njonkem Nicole Primus Warren Streck Maryam Yazdanshenas Kadambani Jain Cecilia Liu Cheryl Nardello Donald Nwanze Rasha Sarhan Ajoke Tijani Siddhartha Yerikalapudi Davinder Kahlon Jia Ning Liu Kim Narloch Nwabueze Okeiyi Viju Scaria Diana Trejus Mohand Younes James Kamara Jeswin Lukose Shadi Nassery Jerome Okolo Jenny Seah Chun Ming Tso Kalyani Kasisomayajula Ram Malhotra Shrinivas Nayak Seth Owusu Kimberly Shehan David Turberville

www.ucdenver.edu/pharmacy 15 SUMMER/FALL

PHARMACEUTICAL SCIENCES PhD MARRIED TO GRADUATES RESEARCH DECEMBER 2015 Chuan-Hsin “Cindy” Chang, Toxicology Kun-Che “Gary” Chang, Toxicology ameron and Pallavi McElroy Rolando DeAngelis, have been sharing their love for Pharmaceutical Sciences pharmacy and research since 2008 Shyam Mehta, when they first met in their mas- Pharmaceutical Sciences ter’s of Pharmaceutical Sciences in “I think that’s the best part of it, really – the under- Harold Ting, Pharmacology and Toxicology pro- standing, because she knows exactly what I’m going Pharmaceutical Sciences gram at the University of Toledo. through,” he echoed. Rui Xiong, The couple married in 2013, “We’re pretty fortunate in that sense that we have a Toxicology while PhD candidates in the toxicology program at CU’s spouse that understands the situation we’re in, because a Skaggs School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences. lot of times people with spouses in a non-science field don’t MAY 2016 Pallavi studies neurological disorders – specifically understand why you have to work until 9 o’clock at night or Cameron McElroy, Cepilepsy – and the role of oxidative stress in inflammation. why you have to go in on the weekends, but we don’t have Toxicology “I’m working on these different antioxidant compounds that problem,” added Pallavi. Pallavi Bhuyan McElroy, that inhibit oxidative stress and inflammation and could be Following commencement, both Cameron and Pallavi Toxicology potentially used as therapies in epilepsy,” she said. headed off to work for WIL Research in Ohio as staff toxi- Cynthia Rigby, Cameron, too, is researching oxidative stress. cologists/study directors – yes, both of them. Toxicology “I’m studying the effects of chemical warfare agents in “The responsibilities are the same as in the titles are the Chen Zhou, the lungs, and the ability of antioxidants to attenuate the same, but I’m in the developmental and repro-tox group, Pharmaceutical Sciences level of toxicity,” he said. “I looked at sulfur mustard inhala- and he’s in the general toxicology group,” said Pallavi. “But tion, and other toxic chemicals like that.” essentially our responsibilities are very similar, because AUGUST 2016 So, it’s no wonder the two are able to connect. we’ll be in charge of designing and overseeing different “We do talk about work a lot,” said Pallavi. “If I’m hav- toxicology studies. Neha Pardeshi, Pharmaceutical Sciences ing issues troubleshooting experiments or just issues in “So, we’ll see if we’re going to be stuck together profes- general, we can always talk about that.” sionally for the rest of our lives,” jokes Pallavi. KAYLA GREEN

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• Testing patients for influenza and care insurers and become enrolled in treating them accordingly. With the flu, their network of providers,” Moore said. “I access to antiviral medications within know some conversations are underway.” 48 hours of onset can reduce symp- toms significantly, potentially lowering COLLABORATIVE PRACTICE costs to the healthcare system while nother amendment, this one to the easing a patient’s misery. Pharmacy Practice Act, expanded • Supplying patients with contracep- collaborativeA practice opportunities, tives, possibly decreasing unwanted granting pharmacists authority to pro- pregnancies. vide services to more than one patient • Providing smoking-cessation medica- with a physician’s orders. “For instance, tions and support, allowing patients physicians can now allow pharmacists motivated by a sudden urge to quit to provide treatment under protocol for quick access, professional guidance and all of their diabetic patients,” Moore said. potentially drug-cost reimbursement. “So a pharmacist doesn’t have to go to The intent of the surveys, issued each patient for individual orders, which collaboratively by the CU School should also simplify the process.” of Pharmacy, the Department of Under the new law, pharmacists, Regulatory Agencies, and the Colorado per protocol, can also provide multiple Department of Public Health and therapies to a patient, rather than only Environment (CDPHE), is two-fold, a single drug. “What that means is that said Tara Trujillo, MNM, CDPHE chronic a patient with a complicated disease, disease specialist. Provider responses such as diabetes (which often requires can steer and streamline the drafting multiple-drug therapy), can be treated by a process by helping prioritize protocols, pharmacist, who can identify the medica- and they can also alert board members FORGING tions that are best and bring that patient to to any obstacles they might envision, so goal hopefully more quickly,” Moore said. that those can be addressed head-on. The ultimate goal is that by optimizing PARTNERSHIPS “We really want to ensure that we are drug therapy, patients are healthier and Stakeholders work toward bringing more getting good stakeholder input and good health-care costs are reduced, she said. information back to folks across the state,” voices into building of new pharmacy law Moore said she does not expect formal Trujillo said. “We want to know what’s protocol hearings before late November, really needed out there.” The bill calls but that pharmacists, students and other on the CDPHE, along with the boards of stakeholders should stay in tune with Pharmacy, Medicine and Nursing, to draft overs and shakers behind a new state law aimed at the process and be engaged. Pharmacy protocols and then form a consensus. enhancing partnerships between pharmacists and medi- student Daniel Galipeau, who has been cal providers and easing healthcare access for patients active in forwarding Senate Bill 16-135, PHARMACIST REIMBURSEMENT across Colorado are working hard, hoping their long calls on his fellow students to follow suit. Mhours will help ensure the progressive regulation’s long-term success. he bill also amends the Colorado “It ultimately impacts the health environ- Senate Bill 16-135, signed into law in June, took effect Aug. 10, Insurance Code, providing reim- ment they are going to work in. For me, but requires the drafting and widespread approval of highly specific bursementT opportunity for qualifying it’s very important, because it provides statewide protocols to move forward. Surveys have gone out to phar- pharmacists for treatments under the greater access to patients and allows the macists and medical providers across the state seeking their input with new protocols. “We really hope it makes pharmacists to provide the health services these protocols, designed to allow pharmacists to directly provide, and insurance companies aware of the that we are trained to provide.” In addition potentially gain reimbursement for, more patient services. services that pharmacists provide and to the CU pharmacy school, up-to-date “We are looking for what diseases and health issues medical providers allows pharmacies and pharmacists to information can be found through the are seeing in patients, and which ones they would like to see perhaps have those conversations with health Colorado Pharmacists Society and the managed by pharmacists on the front end,” said Gina Moore, PharmD, as- Colorado State Pharmacy Board. sistant dean for clinical and professional affairs at the University of Colorado “We want to make sure folks have Skaggs School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences. “We know there access to the services they need,” Trujillo are many patients out there with access issues to healthcare who can said. “And partnering with pharmacy is benefit,” said Moore, who has been a chief force in advancing the bill for the opening up a new avenue to access to past two years with the CU pharmacy school and others. see that that happens. I think that this is the beginning of seeing pharmacy really STATEWIDE PROTOCOLS become a more integrative part of the healthcare team and ensuring that we mphasizing that discussions are in preliminary stages, Moore said look at pharmacy in a new way.” examples of what pharmacists could do with statewide protocols DEBRA MELANI underE the new law include: GINA MOORE, PHARMD

www.ucdenver.edu/pharmacy 17 SUMMER/FALL PRECEPTOR CORNER Advanced Pharmacy Practice Experiences (APPE)

PRECEPTOR: Kelly Matsuda, MD PRECEPTOR: Anna Lubarsky, PharmD PRACTICE SITE: Stanford Health Care PRACTICE SITE: VA Boston Healthcare System-Jamaica Plain ROTATION TYPE: Cardiology TYPE: Ambulatory Care STUDENT: Dana Ng STUDENT: Michelle Gaynor y out-of-state rotation in the Cardiology ICU at Stanford Health Care y first rotation in ambulatory care was a great experience. My preceptor ex- “ was an irreplaceable experience. With strong focuses on cardiovascular “ posed me to complicated patients and challenged me to use my knowledge pathophysiology and pharmacology, I obtained the foundation for all to treat the individual. I worked with a variety of chronic diseases including aspectsM of clinical evaluation and care. My preceptor, Dr. Kelly Matsuda, possessed a hypertension,M diabetes, dyslipidemia, anticoagulation, anemia, chronic pain, and smoking true drive and talent for teaching both students and residents alike, in a way that was cessation. I was fortunate to experience pharmacy practice in the Northeast, and loved extremely effective. He held high standards, but provided a method of teaching that working with a different patient population. This experience helped me gain confidence allowed us all to understand concepts in depth and meet his expectations.” and clinical skills that will stay with me throughout my career.”

JONATHAN CHHEUY ANNA ZHOU ANDY REGALMUTO MICHELLE GAYNOR

PRECEPTORS: Ty Kiser, Rob MacLaren, Scott Mueller, PharmD PRECEPTOR: Tony Chau, PharmD ROTATION SITE: University of Colorado Hospital - Medical Intensive Care Unit PRECEPTOR: Uerica Wang, PharmD TYPE: Critical Care PRACTICE SITE: Stanford Health Care STUDENT: Andy Regalmuto ROTATION TYPE: Health-System Inpatient (Kidney/Liver Transplant) STUDENT: Anna Zhou y rotation in the MICU was filled with equal amounts of learn- “ ing and excitement. I was a part of two collaborative health care aving the opportunity to do an out-of-state rotation at Stanford teams in the MICU with a set of critical and complex patients “ Healthcare was an invaluable experience that I would recommend to any toM manage. As part of these teams, I was exposed to, and able to, help out student serious about pursuing a PGY1. Taking care of the transplant with life-threatening and poorly-managed disease state exacerbations, organ populationH at Stanford challenged me to think critically and apply the clinical failure, pulmonology/lung diseases and intubations, overdoses and toxicology, knowledge I learned at CU in novel ways. Though it was a very challenging rotation, anticoagulation (and reversal), infectious disease and antibiotic selection, the experience I gained could not have been replaced. For students considering doing properly dosing and monitoring narrow therapeutic medications, and much out-of-state rotations, if you’re interested in a certain PGY1 program, don’t hesitate to more. It was extremely fulfilling to be able to take what I had learned in phar- contact our experiential office to help you set up an APPE (Advanced Practice) at the macy school, combine it with lessons I had been taught from other medical site. Who knows? You may end up being a member of their next resident class.” professionals on this rotation, and formulate recommendations that were then applied to real life patients. What was really rewarding was the real life impact PRACTICE SITE: VA in Loma Linda my recommendations had on their care and, ultimately, their quality of lives. ROTATION TYPE: Health-System Inpatient (Infectious Disease) My preceptors (as well as the PGY1’s and 2’s) were absolutely amazing and STUDENT: Jonathan Chheuy an integral part of my education -- teaching me more than I ever could have imagined. The overall knowledge, experience, and clinical skills I gained will really enjoyed the autonomy that was given at the VA rotation. Working closely be highly beneficial to me and my future pharmacy career.” “ with medical residents and students to determine the most appropriate therapy for our patients was rewarding. The medical residents and students were really appreciativeI and were receptive of the recommendations I made.” 18 CU Skaggs School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences SUMMER/FALL

designed to be completed in two years Fulp says that her colleagues in North of continuous study, but is flexible Carolina are intrigued by the degree she up to seven years, depending on is pursuing. “They are all asking about the student’s needs. The IPCC is for what we are learning.” students seeking additional palliative care education or preparing for pallia- WHAT IS PALLIATIVE CARE tive nursing certification examinations, AND WHY THE NEED but not ready to commit to completing ith 75 million baby boomers a master’s degree. Certificate students entering their senior years complete 12 credit hours of the MSPC. Wneeding individualized care and help Both programs include three-day on- making medical decisions, the nation’s campus intensives focused on improv- health care providers are ill-prepared for ing communication and collaboration the upcoming “silver tsunami.” Workforce in real-world simulations. estimates suggest that we will need “The combination of online and upwards of 15,000 providers to meet on-campus course work is an excellent demand for palliative care services melding,” says Fulp. The in-person/ throughout our health care systems. on-campus portion included the Palliative care helps patients with three-day intensive, approximately serious or life-limiting illness and their three weeks after the start of class. “It family caregivers, when they experi- was absolutely a positive experience,” ence suffering due to pain, numerous says Fulp, who traveled from North non-pain symptoms, and psychosocial Carolina to Colorado to meet, mingle and spiritual distress. Many are familiar and learn with fellow students from all with hospice care, which is a subset of over the country. Feeling welcomed, palliative care for those very near the NEW PROGRAM IN if a little intimidated, Fulp says, “It end-of-life. Palliative care takes lessons is nice to see pharmacy recognized learned in hospice care and integrates as part of the team, and it is a good this earlier in the course. Integration PALLIATIVE CARE opportunity to learn from, and as, an of palliative care with disease-directed Just What the Doctor Ordered interdisciplinary group.” Fulp has found treatment such as chemotherapy for lung that the program recognizes the unique cancer have demonstrated improved contributions each interdisciplinary quality of life and improved survival. orking for a hospice pharmacy benefit management team member makes in the provision of (PBM) company in North Carolina specializing in state-of-the art palliative care. “It takes FOR MORE INFORMATION ABOUT geriatrics, Ellen Fulp, PharmD, sees a lot of patients a village to provide excellent palliative THIS EXCITING OPPORTUNITY: who are dealing with life-limiting illnesses. These same care,” says Fulp. folks are usually taking multiple medications. “I love Excited by the prospect of an Visit us at our booth (#2435) at ASHP Midyear, Dec. 5-7, what I do, but so much of it I learned on the job, and advanced degree in palliative care and Mandalay Bay Convention Center, Las Vegas, Nev. notW during pharmacy school,” says Fulp. “As a pharmacy student, I didn’t get a lot working with other health care profes- Check out our blog site www.CUPallCARE.org of information on ending meds or withholding or removing therapy… and, so sionals, “This provides great exposure for or website at http://www.ucdenver.edu/MSPC frequently that’s what we are faced with as pharmacists specializing in geriatrics pharmacy and how we fit into the plan.” DANA BRANDORFF and hospice care,” Fulp laments. From her experience, the palliative care approach is “hope for the best, plan for the worst.” Certified in geriatrics, Fulp is interested in furthering her education in palliative care. According to Fulp, “There is no pharmacy board certification for end-of-life care.” Her quest to further her education in geriatrics and end-of-life care led her LEARN MORE How to apply pharmacogenomics to patient care to the University of Colorado’s Master’s Degree in Palliative Care (iPallCARE). “The more I read about the program, the more I was drawn to it,” says Fulp. Interested in learning more about how genetic factors influence drug disposition, response For Fulp, the appeal was the interdisciplinary focus. Comprised of nurses, and adverse effects? Then, the Pharmacogenomics Certificate could be the program for you. physicians and physician assistants from a wide range of medical specialties, Geared toward practicing pharmacists, this web-based course includes the fundamentals and one geriatric pharmacist (Fulp), the inaugural class is composed of 16 of pharmacogenomics; the impact of it on drug clinical pharmacology; interpretation of health care professionals. pharmacogenomics test results, literature and use of evidence-based guidelines; case-based Designed for the mid-career provider, the first cohort of Palliative Care scenarios, as well as clinical implementation of pharmacogenomics in different health care settings. Community Specialists started this fall 2016. The University of Colorado Taught by Christina Aquilante, PharmD, a recognized expert in pharmacogenomics, this eight- Graduate School at the Anschutz Medical Campus has actually developed two week program includes online videos, discussions, live video chats, weekly feedback and real-time innovative, predominantly online palliative care educational programs: An access to expert opinions. Knowledge gained from this program will enhance your ability to apply Interprofessional Master of Science in Palliative Care (MSPC) degree, and an genetic information to pharmacy practice and select the most appropriate therapeutic interventions. Interprofessional Palliative Care Certificate (IPCC). The MSPC prepares providers REGISTER AT: www.cvent.com/d/dvq2j4 DATES: Jan. 11, 2017 - March 7, 2017 to become Palliative Care Community Specialists and focuses on advancing COST: $695 on or before 12/11/16; $795 after 12/11/16 clinical knowledge, using evidence in building palliative care practice and ACPE-accredited, this practice-based program includes 16 hours of continuing pharmacy communication skills. The MSPC program requires 36 semester credit hours, education credit. Participants receive a certificate upon successful completion of the course.

www.ucdenver.edu/pharmacy 19 SUMMER/FALL

ALUMNA PARLAYS EXPERIENCE INTO ENTREPRENEURIAL COMPANY

never thought I had an entrepre- program. “The two degrees comple- Unfortunately, as a result of a com- “ neurial bone in my body. Boy, ment each other, especially in the pany merger, she lost her job. Somewhat was I wrong,” says alumna Mei areas that I have pursued.” at a loss, she began to mull over options. Tang,I PharmD ’07. During her career, she has worked As luck would have it, an opportunity As a working pharmacist special- for hospitals, health plans, pharmacy came her way that would change her izing in hospital pharmacy and man- benefits management companies, and career path, and life, forever. aged care pharmacy, Tang decided to eventually landed on the provider She was contacted by a business pursue her PharmD through CU’s side. Tang was tasked to build a new associate to start a project to help a distance program and attained her pharmacy facility for a privately-owned specialty pharmacy client improve doctorate in ’07. “I worked and specialty pharmacy company, and get operations processes, build patient lived in Michigan full-time, so a the operations up and running. “It was quality management programs, last year-and-a-half. “It’s rewarding distance program was really the only a departure from my knowledge and and to obtain specialty pharmacy and interesting, and I get to call the option. It was a perfect match for my experience in a corporate world. And accreditations. Soon after that, she shots,” says Tang. situation, and the right fit for me. It believe me, I was nervous,” she says. was contracted by another consulting “You know they say things happen was a tremendous step forward in my But she succeeded in building the new company to help a health plan client for a reason, and they’re right. I re- career,” says Tang. 13,000-square-foot pharmacy that manage Medicare Part D programs. member in school, I never would have Most people would stop after an housed pharmacy fulfillment opera- Through these experiences, she considered myself an entrepreneur, and intensive online program, a full-time tions, administrative offices, as well as a came to the realization that she is an I really was not interested in that path. job, and two children under the age customer service call center. She hired entrepreneur, and that her passion Look at me today. Things change, of three, but not Tang. She moved and led a team of 75 people. That was and talents are to help others grow and you must be willing to be open to to California and quickly followed followed by a successful system conver- and expand. So, she established other possibilities. I have learned never up her PharmD with a MBA from sion to improve operational efficiency Two Trees Consulting, and has to deny yourself opportunities.” UC-Irvine in the executive healthcare and ensure compliance. been consulting full-time for the DANA BRANDORFF

IN THE NEWS ews coverage of the school is at an all-time high with faculty and residents staffing 9NEWS’ consumer call-ins on topics from vitamins and supplements to colds and flu, to interviews to features on CNN and profiles of our graduates, faculty and students in national publications. To date, the school has been included in more than 125 news stories this year alone. The following is a list of some of the highlights:

• Danielle Rhyne, PharmD, con- • Robert Valuck, PharmD, was inter- N ducted a retrospective study on viewed by the Denver Business Journal medical marijuana and migraines. regarding OpiSafe software that he and The study showed that medical business partners developed to track marijuana decreases frequent patient opioid use and watches for migraines. Rhyne, together with potential abuses. co-authors Drs. Laura Borgelt and Sarah Anderson, were interviewed • Jared Brown, PhD, and research by numerous outlets including U.S. assistant Jonathan Shannahan, PhD, News & World Report, Pharmacy mentored 16-year-old Cherry Creek Times, the Daily Mail, the Denver High School student Hari Sowrirajan Post and ABC News and The for the past three years. Under their Top: Robert Valuck Danielle Rhyne Denver Channel. tutelage, Hari has received numerous Bottom: Jared Brown

20 CU Skaggs School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences SUMMER/FALL

spirit, as is clear from her Journey Through Surgery blog on which she chronicled her experience. On the blog, she talks openly about momentous emotions as well as mundane details that humanize her journey, such as her deep houseclean- RECOVERING FROM ing the day before surgery. “You know those dust bunnies you have up on your ceiling fan? Ya, take a look—it’s BRAIN SURGERY disgusting,” she writes. “I want to help others who are deal- ollowing a grueling first-year residency, some pharmacy ing with this procedure as well as those post-graduates might seek out an opportunity to that support and love them,” Kercsak downshift and relax. wrote. “People survive and live, but But for Skaggs alumna Adrienne Kercsak (PharmD ’14), there aren’t many out there taking the the “downshift” from her clinical pharmacy residency finally time to talk about their experience.” gave her time to undergo brain surgery this past April—to Kercsak has led PKD-awareness- which she logged many miles before remedy a brain aneurysm first diagnosed nine years ago, but raising activities in several communi- the surgery. “I had to do it not only now three times the size and at risk of catastrophic rupture. ties, and moving forward aims to for my own sanity, but [also] I think I Though Kercsak’s four-hour open-head surgery was continue her advocacy by initiating was running for those who have had F daunting, this was not her first life-threatening condition. a charity walk in San Diego. And her aneurysms and can no longer run Her travails living with Polycystic Kidney Disease (PKD) experiences as a patient, she says, either due to losing their life, or loss (which increases risk for aneurysms in women) inspired has given her greater empathy and of daily functions,” she writes. “This is her to pursue an advanced education in pharmacy, as compassion in communicating with a reality, and awareness needs to be chronicled here. her patients and their families. spread because there are so many Fortunately, Kercsak had the good wishes of her Her most recent blog post details people out there going day-to-day colleagues at Scripps Mercy Hospital in San Diego. She the catharsis she felt of running again with a ticking time bomb in their also had a deep reservoir of fortitude, positivity and on the Mission Beach boardwalk on brain.” JEREMY SIMON

science awards, and became a published author. The story aired on 9NEWS and in CU Today. KEYS TO SUCCESS

• P-4 Kelsey Schwander took time ercsak parlayed her PGY-1 tenure at out of her busy schedule the week Scripps Mercy into her dream job: a full- of graduation to respond to a local time emergency pharmacist position at the 5th grader, Natalia Zielinski, who has hospital, which often requires two years of aspirations of becoming a pharmacist. residency training. Her success spotlights Zielinski wrote a letter to her college of the value of treating your residency as a de facto job choice – CU Skaggs School of Pharmacy interview,K and she benefited from: – as part of a class project. Schwander • Advance research: Kercsak noted during her application and representatives from the school process that Scripps Mercy had a relatively high retention surprised the 5th grader by presenting rate for pharmacy residents. her with Kelsey’s white coat and a future pharmacist pin. The story was capture • Good fortune: Following her residency, she fell into a by 9NEWS, CU Today and other outlets. floating position as the longtime ED pharmacist hap- pened to be leaving. (Given Kercsak’s health challenges, • MedPage and numerous national media she was clearly overdue for some good fortune!) “Timing outlets including CBS Radio, CBS News, was everything,” she says. WebMD, Pharmacy News, and Kaiser • Passion: “I did it because I knew I loved hospital medicine,” Health News featured the scientific she says. “You really have to have your heart in it. If you statement that Robert Page, PharmD, don’t have that passion, it’s easier to get burned out.” co-authored with the American Heart Association regarding drugs that can Top: Kelsey Schwander with aspiring pharmacy worsen or cause heart failure. student Natalia Zielinski Bottom: Robert Page

www.ucdenver.edu/pharmacy 21 SUMMER/FALL

Health. This snapshot of The ALSAM Foundation’s historic partnership with CU demon- strates the transformative impact of private philanthropy. TIMELINE: 1992: Established the Pharmacy A LONGSTANDING Diversity Student Scholarship Fund that provided scholarship support to 150 promising pharmacy students. PARTNERSHIP 1992: With support from The ALSAM Foundation, the School of The ALSAM Foundation Pharmacy relocated to the Skaggs Pharmacy building on the CU Health Sciences Campus in Denver s merchandising entrepreneurs behind retail chain stores to accommodate rapidly expanding such as Safeway, Osco, Albertsons and others, the Skaggs research and education programs. family have pioneered new approaches to pharmacy 2003: Established the Mont Gutke and drug distribution since the early 1900s – making Lectureship, named for a faculty high-quality treatments accessible and affordable to member and businessman who people across the United States. Through The ALSAM taught at CU in the late 1950s Foundation, the charitable institution they established and remained engaged with the in 1984, the family has held a decades-long philanthropic partnership with the school until his passing in 2006. UniversityA of Colorado that has helped to transform pharmacy and pharma- To date, 11 guest lecturers from ceutical sciences education and fueled innovation in basic and translational businesses and universities around research at CU. With investments in everything from student scholarships, the country have presented. faculty research efforts, facilities and equipment, The ALSAM Foundation has with continued capital investments helped accelerate the Skaggs School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences’ 2007: The School of Pharmacy from The ALSAM Foundation. growth from a 16 faculty-member school in the 1980s to a leading institution moved to the Anschutz Medical 2010: Created the Skaggs Scholars of more than 750 students and 80 faculty members ranked #5 among the 134 Campus in Aurora and construc- Program, designed to stimulate pharmacy schools in the country for funding from the National Institutes of tion began on the current facility, collaborative research between CU pharmacy faculty members and their colleagues at one or more of the other six Skaggs institutions. Dean Ralph J. Altiere, together with Dean Emeritus Lou Diamond, celebrate 2011: Celebrating its 100th the unveiling of our school’s name with anniversary, the School of members of the Skaggs family Pharmacy was renamed the Skaggs School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences and moved into its current home. 2013: Created the L.S. Skaggs Professorship to foster top talent in drug discovery and precision medicine. 2015: Investments from The ALSAM Foundation enabled the school to purchase advanced mass spectrometer equipment and fund a new faculty position in pharmacogenomics. 2016: Funded therapeutic innovation research grants focused on promising new treatments for illness and disease.

22 CU Skaggs School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences SUMMER/FALL

to her home state of Arizona where efforts are transforming the role of she worked with veterans and pharmacists in Arizona, and her work community health centers. In 2001, is impacting the entire field. she became the first pharmacist in PHARMACOGENOMICS GIFT her state to earn limited prescribing rights, and garnered attention from nderstanding the importance the White House in 2011 by leading of personalized medicine, The a grassroots effort to gain provider UALSAM Foundation is currently status for pharmacists. Her advocacy investing in top talent at the CU will one day allow pharmacists to Skaggs School of Pharmacy and work directly with physicians to Pharmaceutical Sciences – a faculty provide coordinated care to patients, expert who is pioneering research and potentially allow pharmacists at the intersections of pharmacy to even prescribe medications for and genetics to develop highly some illnesses without primary tailored therapies designed to treat care physicians. Today, her work is individual patients. In addition, centered around team-based care The ALSAM Foundation is making focused on wellness, preventive care it possible for the school to obtain and early intervention. Leal said, “At advanced mass spectrometer a very simple level — just to have equipment to advance its research the opportunity to review a patient’s in the pharmacogenomics arena. chart, make a recommendation or These investments will fuel the intervention, and then be account- translation of this leading-edge able for what’s happening with research into real-world applica- the patient is at a minimum how tions certain to improve patient TOM ANCHORDOQUY pharmacists should be utilized.” Her outcomes and care. TRISHA KENDALL

FUELING INNOVATION he ALSAM Foundation created the Skaggs Scholars Program to fuel high-risk, high-reward research taking place collaboratively among any of theT seven Skaggs institutions. Projects are selected based on their potential to transform pharmaceutical sciences and patient care. Over the past six years, 14 initiatives involving CU Anschutz faculty have received funding. In 2013, Tom Anchordoquy, PhD, received funding from the Skaggs Scholars Program to research acute and chronic inflammation as it relates to environmental toxins being transported in cells. This research was conducted in coordination with Andrij Holian, PhD, from the University of Montana Skaggs School of Pharmacy. The two labs developed techniques to visualize toxins within cells, and then tested current drugs to see if they were successful in preventing inflammation. The results were quite promising, and they found that existing pharmaceuticals may be useful for treating chronic inflammation. The next step is to use animal models and compete for NIH funding. According to Anchordoquy, “With the increasingly stringent funding limits at the NIH, the role of organizations like ALSAM that fund research is becom- ing ever more important. The amount of preliminary data needed to success- fully compete for a major grant from NIH is extensive, and thus, organizations like ALSAM allow new and novel ideas to ‘get off the ground’ instead of dying in academic hallways.” BRINGING DREAMS INTO REACH he path toward redefining the role of pharmacists in the U.S. started with a scholarship funded by The ALSAM Foundation. TSandra Leal, PharmD ’98, knew she wanted to be a pharmacist from the time she was a child and was the first in her family to attend college. At CU Health Sciences Center on 9th Avenue, she received full-tuition funding through the Pharmacy Diversity Scholarship. Leal graduated and returned SANDRA LEAL

www.ucdenver.edu/pharmacy 23 Nonprofit Organization University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus U.S. Postage PAID School of Pharmacy Denver, CO Mail Stop C238 Permit NO. 831 12850 E. Montview Boulevard Aurora, CO 80045 Address service requested

How to Reach Us Pharmacy Perspectives – Volume 8, Issue 1 – is published twice a year by the University of Colorado l Anschutz Medical Campus for alumni and friends of the Skaggs School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences. Edited and written by Dana Brandorff unless otherwise noted throughout. Photos by Trevr Merchant and Dana Brandorff. Art Director: Nick Heckman. We welcome your comments, news and story ideas.

University of Colorado Skaggs School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences C238 12850 E. Montview Boulevard / Aurora, CO 80045 [email protected] / 303.724.4618

SHARE YOUR SUCCESSES CLASS OF ’76 REUNITES We are always interested in sharing your successes, occasions and The Class of ’76 spent Homecoming Weekend together in Aurora and milestones. Don’t be shy. Information on births, marriages, new jobs, Boulder catching up, reminiscing and having a ball. Beginning Friday, promotions, business ventures are all welcome. Contact us at sop. Oct. 14, with a tour of the Anschutz Medical Campus, followed by a trip to [email protected] or [email protected] so we can Boulder for lunch at the Champions Café and tour of the CU Champions and share your tales with your classmates, fellow alums, faculty and friends. Sports Medicine and Performance Centers, reception at the St. Julien Hotel and dinner at the Mediterranean, and followed by football on Saturday, the REUNIONS weekend was packed with activities. “What a great way to cap off a great In the space of less than six months, the Class of ’65 has held two weekend,” said classmate and reunion organizer Betty Wakimura. Classmates gatherings – one at the Commencement Banquet in May, followed included Lillian Alderman-Brown, Dave Baulesh, Skip Davis, Deb (Springer) by a dinner in September. The group gathered Sept. 24 at Table 6, Devereaux, Mary Falvey-Hart, Michael Forsyth, Bill Masse, Isabella (Dirks) KUDOS a very popular Denver restaurant, to spend a memorable evening McCarthy, Katie (Klassen) Perea, Nancy Robertson, Mary (Schmitt) Sharp, together. Six classmates, along with their spouses, were able to make Randy Shulkin, Nanna (Nielsen) Smith, Joe Valdez, Jon Volkman, Betty ean Ralph Altiere, pictured here with Dr. Carmen it. According to John Panepinto, “The arrangements you made for us Wakimura, and guests. “It was a whirlwind of a weekend, but well worth it,” Pena Lopez, was recently inducted as a Fellow at Table 6 were excellent. The food was very good and service by our said Wakimura, who travelled all the way from Hawaii to attend. “I wouldn’t into the International Pharmaceutical Federation waitress, Mave, was fantastic. The private room worked perfectly. All have missed this for the world. It was so great to see everyone!” D(FIP) during its annual World Congress in Argentina. FIP is had a great time.” a global federation representing three million pharmacists and pharmaceutical scientists worldwide. Altiere was one HOMECOMING 2016 of eight members recently awarded this designation. The – CU PRIDE SHINES award recognizes individual members of FIP who have This annual tradition of tailgate and football game has become a main- exhibited strong leadership internationally, distinguished stay of the School of Pharmacy, and something for alumni, students and themselves in the pharmaceutical sciences and/or practice friends to look forward to each year. And this year was no exception. of pharmacy, contributed to the advancement of the With 20 pharmacy students and 30+ alumni in attendance, this event pharmaceutical sciences and/or practice of pharmacy, and was another great showing by the school. The late afternoon tailgate, 6 who have served FIP. Congratulations, Dean Altiere! p.m. kick-off, packed stadium and resounding win against the Arizona Sun Devils was a fantastic way to cap off a beautiful day. Go CU!