The College of Pharmacy recently celebrated its incredible staff with a well-deserved break during our annual Staff Appreciation Celebration. Texas Pharmacy staff gathered at Alamo Drafthouse to beat the summer heat and enjoy a private screening of Jurassic World Rebirth—complete with complimentary lunch, snacks and plenty of popcorn. The celebration continued with a lively social gathering at Chuy's, giving everyone a chance to relax, reconnect and reflect on another successful year.
As part of this celebration, the College proudly announced the recipients of the 2025 Staff Merit and Excellence Awards, honoring classified and research staff who go above and beyond in supporting the college's core missions of teaching, research, advising and administration. These annual awards recognize individuals whose dedication and service make a lasting impact on the Texas Pharmacy community.


We are excited to announce this year's award recipients:
Staff Excellence Award Recipients
Each Excellence Award recipient will receive $2,000, a custom plaque and lunch with Dean Poloyac.
- Guillermo Alvarado - Senior Student Program Coordinator
- Travis Henry - Senior Alumni Relations Program Coordinator
- Christopher Roscoe - Building Manager

Staff Merit Award Recipients
Each Merit Award recipient will receive $750, a custom plaque and lunch with Dean Poloyac.
- Mirna Benhamou - Senior Administrative Program & Division Coordinator, Pharmacology & Toxicology
- Kathryn (Katie) Hartel - Executive Assistant to the Dean
- LaKesha Henry - Senior Grants and Contracts Specialist
- Janet Larsen - Administrative Manager, Dean’s Office and Office of Associate Dean for Academic Affairs

Please join us in congratulating these exceptional team members for their outstanding service and impact on our College of Pharmacy community!