north dakota state university

pharmacythe college of pharmacy, nursing, & allied sciences alumni news fall ‘09

Making a difference in the world Pg. 7

A leader in research 2 Becoming more diverse 8 Pharmacy by the numbers 15

1 Preparing students to become competent, caring, ethical health professionals and citizens. NDSU pharmacy research ranks 13th nationally nanofiber precursors. “The nanofiber is made from peptide. Hobbies away from NDSU: “Nature, quiet places, gardening It has the ability to detect an enzyme (urokinase) that is over and spending time with my son and my dog.” NDSU’s pharmacy program is ranked 13th in the United States University, University of Minnesota, University of Iowa and the expressed at the tumor site. We expect the success of this Awards: NDSU College of Pharmacy, Nursing, and Allied for the percent of doctoral faculty with National Institutes University of Florida. technology will bring protease imaging closer to the clinic, Sciences 2009 Researcher of the Year and 2008 Teacher of Health funding. The American Association of Colleges of and also will establish an individualized therapeutic cargo for of the Year Pharmacy determines the ranking based on National Institutes NDSU ranked 38th nationally for total National Institutes anti-tumor delivery, based on the protease expressions.” of Health funding for pharmacy schools. NDSU has 42 percent of Health grant dollars awarded per full-time equivalent faculty, Best research experience: design of the peptide delivery of full-time equivalent doctoral pharmacy faculty receiving just behind the University of Minnesota (34th) and the Stephen O’Rourke system and optical imaging agent funding from the National Institutes of Health. The 2008 University of Iowa (35th). Position: associate professor ranking is out of 112 schools of pharmacy. Greatest influence: Professor Stephen W. Hawking Arrival at NDSU: 1990 “This is a great acknowledgment of the quality and competitiveness Goals: “To develop a new type of nanomedicine for indi- The pharmacy program’s percentage of pharmaceutical sciences of our research within the Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences vidualized patient therapy.” Research interest: cellular mechanisms that promote the faculty with competitive National Institutes of Health funding and within our college,” said Charles Peterson, dean of the College Favorite medicine or prescription drug: “Penicillin. The exceeded many other prestigious research universities including of Pharmacy, Nursing, and Allied Sciences. “We have a great group relaxation and constriction of discovery of penicillin saved a lot of lives and this drug blood vessels the University of Maryland, University of Illinois at Chicago, of faculty, working very hard, and producing great results. They are is still very useful. When I was an undergraduate, I was University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, The Ohio State competing successfully with the best in the nation.” taught that a good pharmacist should know the structure Process: O’Rourke is a cardio- of penicillin.” vascular pharmacologist who NDSU is one of 112 schools of pharmacy nationally accredited studies the measurement of the by the Accreditation Council for Pharmacy Education. Sadie Anderson Hobbies away from NDSU: downhill skiing, fishing and movement of ions, such as potassium, in and out of the cell Pharmaceutical Sciences faculty tennis through proteins called ion channels. He and his students use both mouse and human blood vessels for their research. Bin Guo has inspired me to pursue new cancer therapeutics to help Sanku Mallik Most recent research discovery: O’Rourke and research- patients who have cancer.” Position: assistant professor Position: professor ers in his laboratory have found that sirolimus increases Goals: “To understand the mechanisms that regulate cancer outward KATP current in human coronary arterial smooth Arrival at NDSU: 2003 Arrival at NDSU: 1998 cell and to develop new and more effective treat- muscle cells. Research interest: programmed Research interest: design of ment for cancer.” Best research experience: “Watching the successes of , also known as small molecules for use as Favorite medicine or prescription drug: “My favorite drug former students.” apoptosis, which is a cell suicide potential drugs and also the is Prilosec, the proton pump inhibitor for treating heart- program that occurs in both delivery and targeting of drugs Greatest influence: The National Institutes of Health and burn and ulcers, because the drug has a specific target – the normal and cancer cells to their sites of action through the American Heart Association proton pump. It is very safe and very effective. I hope some the use of liposomes Process: Guo looks at changes day there can be a drug like that for cancer.” Goals: “To uncover the mechanisms by which melatonin in the expression of genes to Process: Mallik is a synthetic regulates nitric oxide signaling in coronary arteries.” Hobbies away from NDSU: travel, fishing, skiing, swim- find those that are associated with and medicinal chemist who synthesizes compounds that can ming and reading Favorite medicine or prescription drug: “Nitric Oxide, and how they are regulated. This process is very important inhibit enzymes found in a variety of different states because of its importance in cardiovascular physiology in the regulation of normal cell processes and is directly Awards: 2009 Who’s Who in America, three research grants including cancer, infectious disease and high blood pressure. and pathophysiology.” from the National Institutes of Health and one grant from involved in the prevention and treatment of cancer. Most recent research discovery: Mallik and researchers in Hobbies away from NDSU: golf, fishing and reading Department of Defense his laboratory are trying to release drugs from lipid-based Most recent research discovery: Researchers from Guo’s Awards: Fellow of the American Heart Association lab published a paper in the June 2009 issue of Cancer nanoparticles (liposomes) only in the presence of enzymes Prevention Research, a top journal in the cancer prevention Benedict Law involved in cancer cell metastasis. They discovered the field. The paper explains that diindolylmethane (a molecule Position: assistant professor nanoparticles will release the drugs in the presence of Steven Qian found in cabbage and broccoli) can effectively prevent colon highly metastatic breast cancer cells. Arrival at NDSU: 2007 Position: assistant professor cancers in a mouse model when used together with another Best research experience: “I take it for granted that the Arrival at NDSU: 2005 butyrate (an agent found in fiber-rich food). Guo says the Research interest: development experiments may not work out in the first attempt. When diindolylmethane and butyrate combination can induce of clinical imaging techniques this happens, I sit with my students and we brainstorm Research interest: free radical significantly more apoptosis in colon cancers than either for the diagnostic detection together. When the experiment works, it is very satisfying.” oxidative damage within cells drug alone. of tumors and the role of antioxidants in Greatest influence: Anthony J. Pearson, professor and the prevention of this process Best research experience: “My best research experience Process: Law looks at the design Mallik’s doctoral supervisor at Case Western University and production of medical imag- Process: Qian uses sophisticated has occurred at NDSU. My lab has made a number of key Goals: “To reduce the metastasis of breast and prostate discoveries and published papers in top scientific journals ing agents which target specific spectroscopes known as electron markers on the surface of cancer cells. He is interested in cancer cells and to find a way to detect of cancer-associated paramagnetic resonance and including Cancer Research and the Journal of Biological enzymes without the use of biological antibodies.” Chemistry.” finding ways to use the markers for peptide and protein to study the formation of free radicals drug delivery systems directly to the sites of the tumor. Favorite medicine or prescription drug: “Even though within cells and tissues, which helps determine the sites Greatest influence: “My doctoral mentor, Dr. Youcef we conduct research on disease treatment, I am a strong of oxidation within living systems. Rustum, at Roswell Park Cancer Institute in Buffalo, N.Y., Most recent research discovery: Law and researchers in his laboratory discovered a new type of nanomedicine called believer of prevention (this includes healthy eating and regular exercise). I do not have a favorite medicine.”

2 3 Most recent research discovery: Qian and researchers in leave the laboratory as experts in drug delivery research. Goals: “We are currently working on three potential targets compounds from plants used in traditional Chinese medi- his laboratory have recently characterized novel fatty acid They are highly recruited by pharmaceutical industries.” for the treatment of hypertension and cardiovascular dis- cine. We have demonstrated that blood with globin mRNA metabolites formed from a cyclooxygenase pathway, which Greatest influence: “My dad is the greatest influence who eases. Our objectives are to identify more therapeutic tar- removal could provide a practical platform for a cancer bio- provides a new mechanistic insight into lipid peroxida- instilled in me confidence and ability to imagine.” gets for the treatment of cardiovascular , examine marker study using an Illumna Sentrix human-6 v2 array.” tion for cancer biology as well as for other human health the role of these proteins in the blood pressure regulation Goals: “My overall objective is to develop novel therapeu- Best research experience: “The most rewarding part of my diseases biology. and in the of hypertension and develop novel research experience is the fact that my collaborators and I tic systems to prevent diabetes in children by delivering therapeutic tools by targeting those proteins.” Best research experience: “As a faculty member at NDSU, gene-using nanotechnology, and to treat osteoporosis work very well together and we enjoy the synergy of work- to continuously conduct research though mentoring and in aging women and men by delivering calcitonin using Favorite medicine or prescription drug: “My most favorite ing to accomplish our common goals. My passion is cancer educating graduates and undergraduates in the lab.” smart polymers.” medicine would be a drug discovered and designed by me.” research. I feel frustrated when results do not always come Greatest influence: “My postdoctoral adviser R.P. Mason Hobbies away from NDSU: outdoor activities, but most out as expected. However, I am thrilled when the results are Favorite medicine or prescription drug: “Transdermal better than expected or the results are unexpected and novel. from the National Institutes of Health/National Institute patches, which can deliver the drug non-invasively to treat importantly fishing and tennis of Environmental Health Sciences, Research Triangle Park, numerous diseases.” Awards: The American Heart Association and the National Greatest influence: “My mother is my greatest influence. N.C.; and my graduate adviser G.R. Buettner from the Free She was instrumental in setting the stage to my success, Hobbies away from NDSU: exercise, international travel Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke are support- Radical and Radiation Biology Program at the University ing Sun’s current research. leading to my obtaining advanced degrees. The values she of Iowa.” Awards: NDSU College of Pharmacy, Nursing, and Allied instilled in me in my early years continue to influence my Goals: “The goals and objectives of my research are to Sciences 1999 and 2001 Researcher of the Year; NDSU life. She taught me to help others and work hard. Realizing advance knowledge and techniques in cell and tissue lipid College of Pharmacy, Nursing, and Allied Sciences 1998, Erxi Wu the great potential higher education has, she encouraged peroxidation to guide research in developing therapeutic 2000 and 2003 Teacher of the Year; 2002 Fred Waldron Position: assistant professor me to obtain a higher education even though she did not strategies to prevent diseases such as cancer.” Research Award; 1998 and 1999 Mortar Board Preferred have that benefit.” Professor; 2004 American Association of Pharmaceutical Arrival at NDSU: 2008 Favorite medicine or prescription drug: “Vitamins. As Goals: “To find the best way to prevent and treat cancers Scientists Fellow Research interest: cancer such as brain tumors.” antioxidants, vitamins combat free radical oxidation and therapeutics targets, anticancer prevent oxidative stress.” natural products (traditional Favorite medicine or prescription drug: “Amoxicillin. It Hobbies away from NDSU: fishing and table tennis Chengwen Sun Chinese medicine) and drug works every time I take it.” Awards: Qian received two grants from the National Position: assistant professor discovery and blood biomarkers Hobbies away from NDSU: table tennis, soccer, community Institutes of Health for the projects “Endogenous Radicals, Arrival at NDSU: 2007 in cancer and other diseases service Hepatic Lipid Peroxidation and ALD” and “Refinement of Research interest: hypertension Process: Researchers in Wu’s Awards: Wu is the recipient of the Sino-British Friend- LC/ESR/MS for Studying Lipid Free Radicals in Colon (high blood pressure) laboratory are focused on finding cancer therapeutic targets ship Scheme Scholarship, the Overseas Research Scholar- Cancer Growth.” He also received the Young Investigator and their specific treatments. They are interested in early ship and the National Library of Medicine Fellowship for Award from the Free Radical Biology and Medicine Process: Sun identifies targets detection diagnostic bio-markers for cancer as well as find- bioinformatics training, Sino-American Pharmaceutical (Oxygen) Society. for the treatment of cardio- ing a way for early, cost-effective diagnosis of brain tumors Professional Association Excellence Service Award and vascular diseases. Using this so that appropriate and potentially life-saving treatment the International Association of Biological and Medical information, he is working to can be initiated before the tumors have progressed. Research Leadership Award. Jagdish Singh develop pharmaceutical tools Most recent research discovery: “We have some exciting Organizations: American Association for Cancer Research, Position: professor and chair that can be used in the clinic for treatment of hypertension and cardiovascular disease. discoveries in our three areas of research. We have found International Association of Biological and Medical Research, Arrival at NDSU: 1994 that platelet-derived growth factor and receptor signaling Sino-American Pharmaceutical Professional Association, Research interest: pharmaceu- Most recent research discovery: Sun and researchers in his play an important role in brain tumors such as medulloblas- Chinese-American BioMedical Association tics (drug delivery systems) laboratory found that levels of a novel protein, named ape- toma. We also have identified some novel potent anticancer lin, in the brain cardiovascular regulatory area are increased Process: Singh looks for ways to in hypertensive animal models. This suggests that apelin improve the delivery methods may have potential effects on blood pressure control and of how drugs, such as insulin, it could be a new target for the treatment of cardiovascular are introduced to the body. diseases. Most recent research discovery: Best research experience: “The best day in my life is the day Singh and his laboratory coworkers’ most recent invention when I have a new discovery in an unknown area.” has resulted in two patent applications to deliver insulin and calcitonin, using smart polymers for treatment of Greatest influence: “The most influential persons in my diabetes and osteoporosis, respectively. He also discovered research are my previous mentors, Mohan K. Raizada from a way to prevent type 1 diabetes by delivering plasmid DNA the University of Florida and Richard J. Roman from the encoding interleukin-10 using nanotechnology. Medical College of Wisconsin. They are all pioneers in car- diovascular research, and we are still collaborating side by Best research experience: “My best research experience side to fight cardiovascular diseases.” is watching and working with doctoral graduate students. They come to my laboratory with little background and

4 5 Volunteers assist in preparation for Guatemala mission trip

Although tired and sore after weeks of “We enjoyed making a difference in the fighting the Red River flood, pharmacy, lives of these villagers who likely had nursing and allied science students not had medical care since last year’s still found the time and energy to help mission trip,” Loy said. “This made us people in the mountains of northwest- appreciate all we have here and the Charles D. Peterson, dean ern Guatemala. Just days after classes healthcare system all of us are contrib- Phone: (701) 231-7609 resumed and for the second consecutive uting to in the United States.” Fax: (701) 231-7606 year, NDSU students, faculty and staff E-mail: [email protected] helped a local medical team prepare for Students in the College of Phar- their Guatemala Medical and Dental macy, Nursing, and Allied Sciences a message from the dean Mission. NDSU volunteers gathered at coordinated the project. Volunteers the Concept Pharmacy and filled more counted, labeled and packaged thou- than 8,000 prescriptions on April 8. sands of packets of medication for the medical team. I hope this issue of our alumni newsletter finds you in Tuition and fees for students in the NDSU pharmacy “The flood caused some shipping prob- good spirits and in good health. professional program for 2008-09 are approximately lems for the medication, but we didn’t This is the second year NDSU has $11,490 per year. The 2009 N.D. Legislature infused an have any trouble gathering volunteers,” helped Baird and his team prepare for We had 82 students graduating from our pharmacy additional $8.2 million into the North Dakota University said fourth year student Maari Loy, the trip. Assistant professor Jeanne professional program this spring. The Pharmacy System this session that will be targeted to help lower event organizer. “This type of volun- Frenzel also helped in the planning. Graduation Hooding Ceremony was held May 15. Tony student tuition increases in the next biennium. As a teering was much easier on our physical More students took on planning roles Welder, BS ’61, pharmacy, was the keynote speaker. result, tuition increases will be limited to 4 percent per bodies than sandbagging around the this year, including Natasha Petry, He addressed graduates with an inspiring message, year for North Dakota’s four-year schools with no tuition clock,” she added with a grin. Jayme Wolf and Faith Wentzel. “It’s your future, create it.” Several of our faculty and increases for two-year programs in the next biennium. staff received awards at hooding (see page 10). Volunteers began working at 2:30 p.m. “We are hoping this project becomes About 50 professional program students participated and were finished by 6 p.m. Sixty-three a tradition and we needed younger Two commencement exercises were held at the Fargodome in Pharmacy Legislative Day in Bismarck. They learned students, eight faculty and eight staff students to be able to take over for this spring – one for graduate degrees and professional about the legislative process, the political process and assisted with the project. Organizers Students, faculty and staff help prepare medications next year,” Loy said. “Kimberly Halbur, for Guatemala mission. doctorates and another for undergraduate degrees. being involved politically in their future roles as phar- counted 78 different medications. associate dean, arranged the capability macists, how a bill is passed, what bills might impact the to actually go on the mission trip to This year’s pharmacy professional program applicant pool pharmacy profession, and how to address a legislator. Sponsored by the Episcopal Diocese of North Dakota, Dr. John Guatemala for course credit. We didn’t have any takers this year, has 126 applicants with 85 being admitted. Of the 110 They learned that students and pharmacists can have Baird, health officer of Fargo Cass Public Health and his medical but hope that this can be implemented into the curriculum.” students invited for formal interviews, 106 were inter- an impact by being actively involved politically and by team travel to Guatemala each year to provide care to people in Joel Hagen viewed. Their average GPA was approximately 3.69; and helping advance the profession of pharmacy through the the most populous nation in Central America. the average PCAT score was approximately 69.20. legislative process.

Preference is given to students with demonstrated leader- The students provided general health screening and ship skills, work or volunteer experience in a health- heartburn awareness education to legislators (between New partnership keeps Telepharmacy program growing related area, and North Dakota residency. An ethics exam sessions) and interacted with legislators at the annual ice is part of the admission assessment. Although admission cream social. Our students continue to represent us well NDSU’s acclaimed Telepharmacy program continues to mature, sophisticated telecommunications to supervise as the order is to pharmacy schools remains competitive, students at all levels. They are truly, “The Pride of North Dakota.” serving as a national model for state policy change, service de- prepped for dispensing. Linton, Jamestown, McVille and Devils applying to NDSU have a much greater chance of being livery, education, collaboration and partnerships. The program’s Lake are the first hospitals to use the central order entry system. admitted to our pharmacy professional program than at I hope you enjoy our newsletter. If you have comments, sto- partnership with Catholic Health Initiatives to develop a central The service is currently in operation from 4 p.m.-2 a.m. seven other schools in our region. In the past two years, NDSU ries to share or suggestions for future issues, let us know. ordering system for rural hospital pharmacies is an example of days a week. has admitted 67 percent of the total applicant pool, For more information about our college, its people and its continued evolution. compared to an average of 20 to 25 percent for other programs, visit our Web site at: www.ndsu.edu/pharmacy. The video-conferencing and order entry system is encrypted for pharmacy schools regionally and nationally. The phar- Catholic Health Initiatives, a Denver-based nonprofit with a privacy and also allows the pharmacist to check for allergies and macy program admitted 82 percent of North Dakota strong presence throughout the Midwest, is providing support drug interactions so patient safety is greatly enhanced. Improper residents applying to the program in 2008. to North Dakota hospitals with a goal of eventually having dispensing and pharmacist burnout are significant problems for 24/7 central order entry site coverage for hospitals across rural hospitals. Telepharmacy addresses those safety and quality several states. of life issues.

The central order entry site is located in Fargo. Nurses or The NDSU Telepharmacy project was a top news story on the pharmacy technicians in participating hospitals communicate Department of Health and Human Services Website in April: doctors’ medication orders and licensed pharmacists use www.hrsa.gov/news/telepharmacy2.shtm. Laurie Baker

6 7 Walgreens presents diversity grant faculty

The Walgreens Co. awarded the NDSU College of Pharmacy, Nursing, and Allied Sciences a $10,000 gift to assist its diversity efforts. Walgreens Halbur attends Harvard leadership program representatives Thuan Do and Chad Nellis presented the gift on Oct. 21, Kimberly Vess Halbur, associate dean for Student Affairs, “The application process is competi- 2008, to President Joseph A. recently attended the Harvard University management develop- tive. All candidates are reviewed and Chapman; Evie Myers, vice presi- ment program in Boston. selected by the Harvard University dent for equity, diversity and global Management Development Program outreach; and Charles Peterson, dean Providing innovative and practical ideas about critical manage- admissions committee,” said Joe of the college. ment issues for mid-level professionals, the Harvard University Zolner, director of the Harvard Management Development Program is a 12-day leadership Institutes for Higher Education “Diversity is hugely important to program offered through the Harvard University higher educa- and the MDP educational chair. the institution,” President Chapman tion department. Halbur joined 104 other participants from a said. “We will not be the university diverse cross-section of institutions in both the U.S. (30 states were represented) and 14 foreign countries. that North Dakota needs if we do Halbur not aggressively address the issue of diversity and equity. This is the first gift of its kind that we have received.” Charles Peterson, dean of the college, and Walgreens representatives Thuan Do and Chad Nellis, discuss the diversity grant Walgreens provided to the college. Werremeyer gives presentation on health care beliefs According to Peterson, Walgreens will contribute an annual gift of $10,000. He said $2,000 will “Diversity is a very high priority for our college, as it is for the Amy Werremeyer, PharmD ’05, presented at the American she wrote in the book, “Cultural be directed to the Walgreens Diversity Scholarship to support entire university. This is a very special gift from Walgreens,” College of Clinical Pharmacy International Congress. The meet- Competence in Pharmacy Practice.” students of under-represented groups. The remainder will be Peterson said. “The college recently completed a strategic plan- ing was held April 24-28, 2009, in Orlando, Fla. Her presenta- used to develop, implement and support programs that will ning process to identify future goals and priorities for advancing tion, “Health Care Beliefs That Influence Medication Use and Werremeyer has been a faculty mem- have a positive impact and aspire more diversity in the phar- diversity within our college. So, this gift is very timely for us and Safety Among Major Religious Groups,” was based on a chapter ber at NDSU since 2006. macy program. will greatly assist us in accomplishing our vision and goals for diversity within our college.”

Family HealthCare Pharmacy joins collaborative project with patient safety focus Werremeyer

The Family HealthCare Pharmacy was chosen in August 2008 The traveling team includes Annie Ottney (PharmD), Susan to participate in an 18-month Health Resources and Services Wolf Nelson (RPh), pharmacy director, and Miguel Buisan- Administration (HRSA) Patient Safety and Clinical Pharmacy Catevilla (RPh), all from the Family HealthCare Pharmacy, New employees at Family Healthcare Pharmacy Services Collaborative. This national initiative supports the and Maxine Henderson (RN), clinical director from the Family development of best practices that enhance patient safety and HealthCare Center. Nicole Wald (PharmD), Betty Lee (RPh), and Heather Stremick, Certified Pharmacy Technician, has Nicole Wald, PharmD ’08, is a staff pharmacist at the expand the availability of clinical pharmacy services to patients. Jennifer Iverson (RPh) also provide clinical pharmacy services joined the staff of the NDSU Family Healthcare Pharmacy, NDSU Family HealthCare Pharmacy. She is a graduate of and participate in activities of the collaborative. located in downtown Fargo. Originally from Osnabock, the College of Pharmacy, Nursing, and Allied Sciences. The pharmacy is working in collaboration with the Family N.D., she received her training at North Dakota State Wald is responsible for prescription dispensing and a range HealthCare Center, and the team has been recognized as a high The traveling team has presented topics for several national College of Science in Wahpeton, N.D. Stremick is respon- of clinical services offered in the pharmacy. She is originally performing team for their accomplishments in the first nine phone conferences and breakout groups at the national learn- sible for all areas of dispensing and customer service. from Dickinson, N.D., and lives in West Fargo with her son. months of the collaborative. Areas of expansion include medica- ing sessions and was featured as a high performing team on an She lives in Fargo. tion reconciliation services to diabetic patients with a pharma- HRSA national satellite broadcast and at the most recent learn- cist prior to their clinic office visit, incentive based programs ing session in Washington, D.C., in May 2009. which encourage patients to bring all medications to their clinic visit, anticoagulation services with a pharmacist specialist, The Family HealthCare Pharmacy is a department of the College patient health literacy programs, educational presentations to of Pharmacy, Nursing, and Allied Sciences and is located in the the medical providers, individualized patient prescription case Family HealthCare Center in downtown Fargo. management and medication access services, among others.

8 9 College of Pharmacy, Nursing, and Allied Sciences alumni news faculty honored at hooding ceremony

The following college faculty members were honored for outstanding achievements at the Pharmacy Hooding Ceremony on May 15, 2009: Alumna brings medication therapy management to Nebraska Medical Center

Intelligent, ambitious, innovative and hard work- sedation, to make general therapy recommenda- ing all describe Wendy Friedig, clinical pharmacist tions, and to teach patients being discharged from in Nebraska Medical Center’s fast-paced emergency the ED about their medications. department (ED). The North Dakota native earned her PharmD degree from NDSU in 1999. In the fast-paced environment of an ED, a phar- macist’s responsibilities change quickly depend- Friedig always intended to become a community ing on what comes through the door. When the pharmacist. However, life as a hospital pharmacist trauma beeper goes off, Friedig is ready. She has piqued her interest when she started her fourth- the necessary training to help with life-threaten- Sanku Mallik Wanda Roden Polly Olson Robert Sylvester year rotations in pharmacy school. ing situations. She is certified in the American Pharmaceutical Sciences Pharmacy Practice Allied Sciences Pharmacy Practice Heart Association’s Pediatric Advanced Life Friedig Dean’s Award for Dean’s Award for Dean’s Award for Teacher of the Year Award Like most ED pharmacists, Friedig works vary- Support Course and took their Advanced Cardiac Excellence in Research Exemplary Service Outstanding Advising ing shifts and has varying hours. She described it as Life Support training. seven 12-hour shifts per two weeks. While many pharmacists would balk as these hours, Friedig thrives on the schedule. When codes occur in the Nebraska Medical Center ED, Friedig “takes over the [code] cart.” In these situations, Friedig must But what exactly does the medication therapy management role know doses of medications and must be able to draw them up of an ED pharmacist include? “More than you think,” laughed quickly. She tries to anticipate what medications will be needed Friedig. “The most time-consuming component of my job is next and to have them ready. taking a medication history for every patient admitted to the hospital through the ED.” Friedig has a master of business administration degree from the University of Nebraska and also is a Board Certified In a 12-hour shift, the Nebraska Medical Center ED can have Pharmacotherapy Specialist. Friedig uses the knowledge learned NOT PICTURED between five and 30 admissions. Friedig spends a lot of time through her certification “each and every day in the ED.” trying to ascertain what medications patients are currently Mark Dewey Jeff Sawyer taking and why. “Believe it or not, the majority of patients [not Friedig has been highly involved in the American Pharmacists Pharmacy Practice Melrose Pharmacy only] don’t know what medications they are currently taking, Association since pharmacy school, when she was a national Faculty Preceptor Adjunct Preceptor but also have no idea what the medications are for.” To obtain officer for the APhA Academy of Student Pharmacists. She also of the Year Award of the Year Award an accurate medication history, Friedig calls pharmacies, uses has been active with APhA’s Academy of Pharmacy Practice Micromedex to identify “mystery pills” brought from home, and and Management since 1999 and has served in several leader- talks with patients. ship positions.

Most of the day, Friedig works with at least two attending When asked what is next for her, Friedig said, “Nothing is out,” as Promotion and tenure announcements physicians and several residents in the ED. These physicians she is always “open to a new challenge and a great opportunity.” call on and use the expertise of Friedig and her fellow ED phar- Three faculty members have macists when treating patients. The Nebraska Medical Center Excerpted from an article in Pharmacy Today by Ellen Whipple received promotions in the College has institutional guidelines, similar to protocols, available for Guthrie, PharmD. of Pharmacy, Nursing, and Allied various disease states, including pneumonia, sepsis and infec- Sciences. Both Sanku Mallik and tions. Friedig and her ED pharmacist colleagues are commonly Friedig recently was appointed to the NDSU National Pharmacy David Scott were named full profes- called on to dose and/or prepare medications for intubation and Advisory Board. sors and given tenure; and Cynthia Naughton was named associate professor.

Mallik Scott Naughton

10 11 Alumna selected for prestigious fellowship obituaries

Becky (Moos) Keel is on the front lines of studies in Las Vegas. During the fellowship, much of her to combat disease and limit antibiotic resistance. time is spent setting up, taking lab draws and Lyle E. Anderson, 85, BS ’50, worked for well as working at the First National Bank was a lifetime member of the Minnesota analyzing data. After the research is completed, many years as a pharmacist at Golden of Henning, Minn. He moved to Texas Pharmaceutical Association. He retired in Keel, PharmD ’08, has been selected for a two- statistical analysis will be performed and a manu- Valley Health Center. He served in the to practice pharmacy in Fort Worth and 2001 and lived in Herman. year fellowship beginning July 1 at the Center script written for submission to a journal. U.S. Army in Europe during WWII. He Odessa, Texas. He eventually moved to for Anti-Infective Research and Development enjoyed hunting and fishing. He lived in Midland, Texas, and lived at Manor Park Ralph Miller, 73, BS ’60, worked as a at Hartford Hospital in Hartford, Conn. “Infectious disease had been an interest of mine Rogers, Minn. Retirement Complex. pharmacist in Missoula, Mont., and at since my first microbiology laboratory course Williams Drug in Bottineau, N.D., prior to She is studying how mice and rats with specific at NDSU,” Keel said. “I continued to focus and David A. Lewis, 90, BS ’53, served in the John Lommel, 74, BS ’56, worked in moving to Rugby, N.D. There he worked respond to various levels of antibiotics. cultivate this interest by obtaining a microbiology Army Air Corps as an aircraft mechanic North St. Paul, Minn., and Breckenridge, at the Hersey Drug Store until 1969, Using both in-vitro and in-vivo research, she is us- minor. Although I was not involved with research in Georgia during WWII. After the war, Minn., until purchasing Herman Drug when he opened his own pharmacy, ing pharmacokinetic-pharmacodynamic modeling Keel at NDSU, there was always a strong research he worked at maintaining family farms in Herman, Minn. He enjoyed hunting, which he operated until retiring in 2000. and studying different isolates from across the coun- community surrounding our education. Many of in Deer Creek and Albert Lea, Minn., as trapping, fishing and bird watching. He He lived in Rugby. try. She is researching optimal antibiotic dosing to help reduce the pharmacy professors at NDSU stressed the importance of development of resistance and to overcome existing resistance. evidence-based practice, which has helped me make sound clini- There is the potential for human trials, as well. cal decisions.”

“I hope to be able to gain experience on how to conduct basic re- Keel is uncertain what direction her career may take, but her search with the goal of advancing the standards of practice and fellowship should open a few doors. class notes preventing antibiotic resistance,” Keel said. “I want to be able to fully understand the reasoning behind the methodology of a “Ultimately I believe I would like to be a clinical infectious dis- study and how to interpret the results along with understand- ease pharmacist at a tertiary academic hospital,” she said. “I do PharmD grads are loyal Bison fans ing the strengths and limitations of the study. Although I will have ambitions to become a faculty member at a college of phar- have limited patient contact, I hope to gain knowledge that will macy and look forward to precepting students. Although my help me optimize antimicrobials and make decisions in the best career goals are dynamic, I hope this fellowship will allow me to interest of the patient.” identify and focus on a particular subset of pharmacy practice.”

Earlier this year, Keel completed her general pharmacy practice Keel is married to Jonathan Keel, PharmD ’09, who works for residency at the University Medical Center of Southern Nevada Rite Aid. They live in West Hartford, Conn. Fargo pharmacist receives national award

Oliver Frenzel loves it when people Frenzel is a preceptor for final-year Michael Gulseth, walk into The Medicine Shoppe in NDSU pharmacy students. Experien- PharmD ’99, and Fargo and know him by name. To him, tial director Wanda Roden, and NDSU Thomas Johnson, that embodies what a pharmacy is all pharmacy students, including Kraig PharmD ’97, cheer about – a bond between patient and Kraft, Matthew Kessler, Dena Spaeth on the Bison men’s pharmacist. and Nehal Patel, nominated him for basketball team to the honor. their first ever Summit “We want a trusting relationship, League tournament where our customers are not afraid to “To be nominated by students who championship in Sioux come in to ask a question or give us a rotated through here is a great honor. Falls, S.D. The Bison call with concerns,” he explained. That makes this a very special award,” men’s basketball team said Frenzel. went on to play in the Frenzel’s was one of 10 pharmacists NCAA tournament, acknowledged with the 2009 Pharmacy Frenzel was honored for his patient counseling skills His dedication to readily accessible pa- “The Big Dance.” Today One to One Patient Counseling at a conference in April. tient care was formed when he was an Recognition Award at the American NDSU student. He believes in provid- Pharmacists Association annual meeting in San Antonio. ing patients with information needed to fully understand their medications and to use them safely. “It is a big honor for me,” said Frenzel, PharmD ’03. “Personal- ized care is something we pride ourselves in at The Medicine “Everyone, whether a new prescription or a refill, deserves the Shoppe. One-on-one time with people is really important.” opportunity to ask any questions or express any concerns they have about their medication,” Frenzel said. 12 13 student news NDSU Pharmacy Program by the numbers 800 students are enrolled in the pharmacy pre-professional or Approximately 83 percent of North Dakota residents who professional programs. applied to the program were accepted in 2009. This number 80 to 85 students are admitted annually to the pharmacy is up from more than 77 percent accepted in 2007. College names new ambassadors professional program. 30-35 percent of pharmacy graduates stay in North Dakota to practice in their profession. Seventeen new members of the Pharmacy, Nursing, and Allied About 60 percent of pharmacy students applying to the profes- Sciences Ambassadors class of 2009 were welcomed represent- sional program are admitted, compared to 20 to 25 percent for $90,000 to $100,000 is the average salary of NDSU pharmacy ing pre-professional to graduate students from each department other pharmacy schools in the region. graduates, based on an annual survey of graduates. in the college. Approximately 65 percent of students in the pharmacy profes- $11,535 per year is paid by NDSU pharmacy students in the sional program are women. professional program for tuition and fees compared to $18,000- The students will join current ambassadors who promote the 20,000+ per year at other institutions in our region. This is college through events including the White Coat Ceremony, based on 2008-09 rates. Nurse Pinning Ceremony, Ticket to Your Success event, the 50- year reunion, Homecoming activities, Discover NDSU, Expand- ing Your Horizons and Career Day. NDSU improves commencement ceremonies New ambassadors from pharmacy include Kailee Donner, Lexi With enrollment climbing and number of graduate programs and professional participants went from 206 to 265, while the Hoefs, Amanda Jorgenson, Jason Lind, Rupa Patel, Natasha increasing, NDSU administration changed one of NDSU’s most number of eligible students changed very little. “I can’t help but Petry, Haylee Preabt and Mckaya Schmit. New ambassadors tradition-laden functions – commencement. This year, for the think that some of that was due to the fact that they didn’t have from pharmaceutical sciences include Namrata Bhatnagar Student Ambassadors promote the college to prospective students and first time, spring commencement was split into two ceremonies; to sit through a long ceremony.” and Praveen Shukla. New ambassadors from nursing include host alumni homecoming tours. one for graduate and professional students, and another for Amanda Booke, Anne Dunham, Brett Halvorson, Danielle undergraduate students. Another perk of split ceremonies is more customization. “There Hasslinger and Ashlie Seifert. New ambassadors from allied The ambassadors are co-advised by Dana Davis, director of are more opportunities to highlight the honors and achieve- sciences include Lindsey Bruner and Tania Peters. recruitment, and Sara Wald, director of advancement for the “Overall when we looked at the length of our spring program … ments of each group,” she said. In the future, the graduate and College of Pharmacy, Nursing, and Allied Sciences. and the increase of students eligible to participate … we were at professional ceremony may include a student speaker and award a point to start looking for alternatives to the spring format,” recognition. said Rhonda Kitch, associate registrar. Student pharmaceutical scientists have successful year “From survey feedback, the (graduate) students really felt like The main objectives were to decrease the length of the program their programs and their achievements were highlighted a lot The NDSU-student chapter of American Association of Ph.D., former student chapter chair, gave an invited podium and increase student participation. Both were accomplished. more,” Kitch said. “It was another reinforcement that this was Pharmaceutical Scientists (AAPS) made significant progress presentation at the 35th annual meeting and exposition of the the right decision to make.” this year. A challenging graduation rate of 26 percent of our Controlled Release Society in New York City. NDSU also was “Last spring the ceremony was two hours and 45 minutes,” chapter members was overcome by increasing our total roster represented with 10 poster presentations at the 2008 AAPS Kitch said. This spring the graduate and professional ceremony Given the success, spring commencement will continue to be size by 33 percent more than the previous record level. This annual meeting in Atlanta. was reduced to an hour and 15 minutes and the undergraduate two ceremonies in the future. December commencement will increase in roster size resulted in a 50 percent increase of our ceremony was shortened to roughly two hours. remain one ceremony. yearly national stipend. Students from our chapter made an impact in June 2009 at the American Peptide Symposium at Indiana University, National Kitch believes the split ceremony is directly related to this Our student chapter also made an impact at the national level Biotechnology Conference in Seattle, and the 41st annual spring’s increased participation rate. The number of graduate with being chosen for the Pharmacokinetics, Pharmacodynam- Pharmaceutics Graduate Students Research Meeting at Purdue ics and Drug Metabolism (PPDM) Education Initiative Award. University in West Lafayette, Ind. Upcoming national confer- Pharmacy students attend 2009 Legislative Day This award provides funding for travel to an invited visiting ences include the AAPS annual meeting in Los Angeles PPDM Fellow to present their research and interact with under- (November 2009) and International Pharmaceutical Federa- graduate, Pharm.D., graduate students, postdoctoral fellows and tion Pharmaceutical Sciences World Congress in New Orleans junior faculty. NDSU joins the University of Minnesota, Univer- (November 2010). sity of Illinois at Chicago and University of Nebraska Medical Center as a recipient of this award. Elections for new officers were held in August, and Rhishikesh Mandke, chair elect, will assume the position of NDSU student NDSU also was well represented at various regional and national chapter chair. He and his newly elected officers will continue The 2009 Pharmacy Legislative Day gave conferences. Five of our student-members presented two to promote the representation of NDSU at various national NDSU students in the pharmacy professional podia and four posters at the Pharmaceutics Graduate Student conferences. program a chance to meet with N.D. Gov. Research Meeting 2008 (PGSRM), at the University of Michigan John Hoeven outside the governor’s office in in Ann Arbor. Jayati Banerjee, student chapter vice chair, took Michael D. Scott, chair the state capitol building, Bismarck, as well as third place out of more than 50 posters submitted from other NDSU Student Chapter of AAPS to learn how the legislative process in North pharmacy schools in the Great Lakes region. Ashwin Basarkar, Dakota impacts the profession.

14 15 The future of pharmacy: Congratulations 2009 4th year graduates

McCall K. Kovar Chelsea R. (Kelsch) Lance D. LeClair Kristen L. (Bjerken) Emily J. Lentz Carmen A. Loff Jeffrey W. Ma New England, N.D. Lawler Fargo, N.D. LeClair Minot, N.D. Devils Lake, N.D. San Leandro, Calif. Linton, N.D. Mahnomen, Minn.

Isaac Aasen Trent G. Anderson Jenna L. (Pepelnjak) Kara M. Axvig Alexis L. Barr Alanna T. Bowman Shelby J. Carlson Mayville, N.D. Hewitt, Minn. Anderson Rugby, N.D. Ortonville, Minn. Watkins, Minn. Inver Grove Heights, Pelican Rapids, Minn. Minn.

Hirenkumar Mahida Ardalan Mahinfalah Tonya M. (Myers) Jennifer (Ostlie) Metz Aaron M. Miller Kirby A. Mohl Lynde Jo Monson Bardoli, India Fargo, N.D. Mayfield Northwood, N.D. Rochester, Minn. Minot, N.D. Fargo, N.D. Surrey, N.D.

Kayla M. (Kertz) Philip M. Dilse Hannah E. Dyk Brian K. Engelman Heather F. Entzel Nicole M. (Sommers) Lucas B. Glarum Clauson Scranton, N.D. Bowman, N.D. Sauk Rapids, Minn. Killdeer, N.D. Fries Mooreton, N.D. Edinburg, N.D. Willmar, Minn.

Charles K. Moore Ashley R. (Rudolph) John R. Naegeli Patrick J. Netland Stephanie C. Noeske Michael A. Nowak Kevin F. Olander Minot, N.D. Muscha Sauk Rapids, Minn. Moorhead, Minn. Valley City, N.D. Casselton, N.D. Bloomington, Minn. Fargo, N.D. Michael G. Glessing Anne C. Gorder Chelsea L. Greutman Kristin L. Gussiaas Brandon J. Haas Brendan L. Hacker Ashley M. Haefner Fargo, N.D. Galchutt, N.D. Fargo, N.D. Carrington, N.D. Madison, Minn.. Hancock, Minn. New Richmond, Wis.

Dana M. Opsahl Ami B. Patel Nehal Patel Sandeep Patel Ryan J. Petrich Ben J. Phipps Emily C. (Krause) West Fargo, N.D. Avon, Minn. Gandhinager, India Gandhinager, India Fargo, N.D. Burnsville, Minn. Phipps Lee H. Hanson Sara K. Hermans Marci A. Jacobson Amy N. Johnson Nicolas D. Kadrmas Erica L. Kallenbach Matthew L. Kapsner Wadena, Minn. Fosston, Minn. Milbank, S.D. Saginaw, Mich. Jamestown, N.D. Bismarck, N.D. Maddock, N.D. Rice, Minn.

Jonathan A. Keel Matt K. Kelly Jill A. Kertz Lola M. Kettler Kylian S. Kirkham Kimberly S. Knain Rebecca A. Knorr Sarah R. (Draxton) Nicholas D. Rogers Andrew L. Ross Michelle A. (Marihart) Jesse D. Rue Brandon P. Sis Dena K. Spaeth Las Vegas, Nev. Fridley, Minn. Edinburg, N.D. Melrose, Minn. Rochester, Minn. Hatton, N.D. Velva, N.D. Reinhart Grand Forks, N.D. Crookston, Minn. Ross Hillsboro, N.D. St. Augusta, Minn. Mahnomen, Minn. Northwood, N.D. Dawson, Minn.

16 17 development Medication donation is a boon for concept pharmacy

David J. Sperl Hannah J. (Molitor) Stephen J. Syverson Tiansheng Wang Jillian Wax Andrew P. Weir Ashlee M. Zimbelman The donation of the U.S. division of Teva Pharmaceuticals is proof that Little Falls, Minn. Surma Enderlin, N.D. Shenyang, China Regent, N.D. Sauk Centre, Minn. Minot, N.D. partnerships make a big difference for students. The global pharma- Alexandria, Minn. ceuticals company, headquartered in Israel, donated 632 prescription and over-the-counter medications worth more than $67,000 to the pharmacy program to benefit its Concept Pharmacy laboratory. NOT PICTURED: Pharmacy students will use the medication to learn how to accurately Carl J. Barron Malory B. (Lange) Steven L. Bladow Sara Jo Erickson Erin M. (Halvorson) dispense and label medications, safely counsel patients on prescribed New Brighton, Minn. Bjella Wahpeton, N.D. Fargo ND Stern medications, and compare and contrast over-the-counter medications. Devils Lake, N.D. Bismarck, N.D. The college thanks TEVA for supporting the Concept Pharmacy through the donation of prescription and non-prescription medications.

Dynamic year one for Sudro Society

The newly established Sudro Society is off to a resounding start. The program also provides crucial support for instructional The annual giving club to assist the NDSU pharmacy program technology advancements, professional support and alumni has raised more than $100,000. activities such as events and the college newsletter. a message from the advancement office “It’s been very exciting and the Sudro Society has exceeded my The chair of the Pharmacy National Advisory Board expectations,” said Charles Peterson, dean of the college. “We’ve Advancement Subcommittee said the group is pleased with seen an increasing number of individuals interested in helping the initial success of Sudro Society. “We find that contributors Spring semester 2009 explained that an older woman who was unable to shovel out the college. It has been a fabulous program.” are pleased knowing that their contributions are going directly was not typical for NDSU sand or toss bags brought boxes and boxes of homemade to student enrichment programs and equipment that would students. Just like in 1997, goodies, along with the promise that she would continue The Sudro Society recognizes individuals who make annual be unavailable without this funding,” said Brad Trom, BS ’72, the Red River surged and to bring treats until the flood threat was past. The lemon unrestricted contributions totaling $1,000 or more to benefit who is the CEO of retail pharmacy for Lovelace Health System NDSU students were again bars she made were some of the best I have ever tasted. the college. The tax-deductible gifts allow the college the flex- in Albuquerque, N.M. “We’re certainly pleased with the initial asked to help hold back the ibility in its strategic planning to implement new programs and launch, but we do want to involve all alumni in giving back to water. As you would expect, Those few weeks fighting the flood really got me thinking instructional concepts to continue the tradition of excellence. NDSU – at any level – since NDSU has given so much to us.” our students responded with about the impact we can make in each other’s lives. Even Gifts less than $1,000 annually are recognized as Friends of vigor and fully immersed though this woman could not physically fill or lift a sand- Sudro Society. Peterson points out college personnel also are participating in themselves in the fight. They bag, she did her part in the fight. This is an example of the Sudro Society, and 78 percent of the college’s faculty and staff worked day and night filling human spirit at its best. As long as we are all committed to “We want to make this the best educational environment for our made contributions during the most recent annual NDSU fac- Wald sandbags at the Fargodome doing our part, great things can happen. students so that they can have opportunities to succeed and live ulty/staff campaign. and Sand Bag Central, and their dream,” Peterson explained. “These funds give us the abil- helping build dikes across the city. Proud hearts and able As a college, our part is to educate students to the highest ity to address emerging urgent needs for the college on a yearly “That shows our faculty and staff are committed to the cause,” bodies made high school and college students leaders standard and provide them with opportunities they cannot basis. The focus is our students; that’s why we are here.” Peterson said. “They are engaged; and they also want this to in the fight, not followers. The need was great and the get at other colleges. We hope you will help us maintain succeed. Our own people give regularly and enthusiastically. response was even greater. this standard of excellence by joining the Sudro Society or Members are listed in the Pharmacy Alumni News, and receive That is significant.” hosting students on IPPE or APPE rotations. If each of us a Sudro Society pin, insider letters from the dean, invitations to As hard as they worked, students were aided by untold does what we can, it can make a huge difference in these special events and networking opportunities with colleagues. Peterson said, “I just want to say ‘Thank you, thank you, thank numbers of people in the community. The spirit was students’ lives. you’ to everyone who participates. Every dollar is important, strong throughout the region during the fight, as this per- “Our goal is to engage as many alumni as we can. Sudro Society and the gifts are truly making a difference in the lives of our sonal experience illustrates: I was filling sandbags at the Sara Wald allows us to do that,” said Sara Wald, the college’s director of students.” Fargodome with some college staff members and, when Director of Advancement advancement. “The gifts have helped us provide research awards, our shift ended, we were greeted with homemade treats. 701-231-6461 or [email protected]. provide students with expense funds at conferences, helped us For more information about Sudro Society, call (701) 231-6461 I asked the other volunteers who provided them and they get the student ambassadors program going and assisted us as or visit www.ndsu.edu/pharmacy. Steve Bergeson we recruit faculty.”

18 19 www.ndsu.edu/pharmacy

Non-Profit U.S. Postage pharmacy PAID alumni news Permit 818 Fargo, ND FALL 2009 • vol. 13 • issue 1

Office of the Dean 123 Sudro Hall Dept. 2650 P.O. Box 6050 Fargo, ND 58108-6050

NDSU has changed campus mailing procedures. Please note the college’s new address.

Consulting editor: Sara Wald Editor/writer: Laurie Baker Writers: Sadie Anderson, Steve Bergeson, Joel Hagen, Linsey Hegvik Designer: Rebekka DeVries Photographer: Dan Koeck Copy editor: Kathy Laid

North Dakota State University does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, religion, sex, gender identity, disability, age, status as a U.S. veteran, sexual orientation, marital status, or public assistance status. Direct inquiries to the Vice President for Equity, Diversity and Global Outreach, 205 Old Main, (701) 231-7708.

This publication is available in other formats on request.

calendar of events

SEPTEMBER 17 Pharmacy Alumni Social, 5:30 p.m., Holiday Inn Pharmacy Alumni Dinner, 6 p.m., Holiday Inn 50 Year Golden Reunion: The classes of 1949, 1954 and will be honored. The reunion is opportunity to come back to campus, rekindle old friendships and witness the many changes at NDSU. Join us to celebrate the university and your contribution to NDSU. homecoming OCTOBER 2 Pharmacy, Nursing, and Allied Sciences Annual 2009 sept. 28 – Oct. 3 Continuing Education Seminar, 8 a.m.-5 p.m., Fargodome, upper level, room 202. Open to all FEBRUARY healthcare professionals. Cost is $100. RSVP to 27 P3 Poster Presentation, Memorial Union, Carol Jore at 701-231-7589 or [email protected] NDSU Campus CE credit will be available.