Brilliance never sleeps.
The University of Texas at Austin College of Pharmacy gathered on Wednesday, April 1 in the WCP Student Activity Center Ballroom to honor the people who make that statement true every day. The annual Celebration of Excellence, presented by the UTCOP Pharmacy Council and the Professional Relations Committee, recognized students, faculty, staff and preceptors whose work continues to shape the future of the college.
Opening remarks from Dean Sam Poloyac set the tone for an evening centered on impact, mentorship and community. Across every award, a common thread emerged: excellence is not just about achievement, but about lifting others along the way.
Teaching, Mentorship and the Power of Connection
The evening began by recognizing faculty and educators whose influence extends far beyond the classroom.
This year's Teaching Excellence Awards highlighted instructors who bring energy, clarity and compassion to their teaching:
- P1 Teaching Excellence Award Winner: Professor Terry Weaver, described by students as "a constant source of positivity and a powerful influence on future pharmacists."
- P2 Teaching Excellence Award Winner: Dr. Juan Guan, recognized for her engaging lectures and intentional check-ins that ensure students feel supported and confident.
- P3 Teaching Excellence Award Winner: Dr. Laura Cannon, who helps students navigate complex oncology topics while emphasizing compassionate, patient-centered care.
Students also honored mentors who shape their academic and professional journeys:
- Outstanding Faculty Advisor: Dr. Ashley Castleberry, praised for her approachable leadership and unwavering support.
- Pharmacy Educator of the Year: Dr. Denise Kelley, whose encouragement and thoughtful guidance have had a lasting impact on student success.
Together, these educators embody the college’s mission to provide exemplary education and training while preparing future pharmacists to advance patient care, innovation and service.
Experiential Learning and Student Support in Action
Excellence in pharmacy education extends well beyond lectures, and this year’s honorees reflect the strength of hands-on learning and peer support across the college.
Among experiential educators, three preceptors were recognized for their outstanding mentorship in practice settings:
- Dr. Erica Torres, Ambulatory Care
- Dr. Jeffrey Warnken, Community
- Dr. Janci Addison, Institutional
Student support leaders were also celebrated for the ways they uplift their peers:
- Outstanding Teaching Assistant: Blake Katz, known for his positivity and ability to lift the energy in any room.
- Outstanding Tutor: Danny Li, recognized for going above and beyond to provide thoughtful resources and engaging review sessions.
- Outstanding Academic Assistant: Mady Walker, whose clear explanations and structured materials have helped students master complex topics.
These individuals demonstrate how learning thrives in environments built on generosity, encouragement and shared success.
Leadership, Service and Lasting Impact
Several awards recognized those whose contributions reach beyond academics, strengthening both the college and the broader community.
- Service Event of the Year: Vestido Rojo Health Screening, coordinated by Project Collaborate, which provided care to 101 patients through 62 volunteer hours from 31 student pharmacists.
- Benjamin Reed Leader in Pharmacy Award: Seun Lagbenro, honored for his leadership, fellowship and humanitarian spirit.
Their work reflects a deep commitment to service and a vision for pharmacy as a force for community impact.
Honoring a Legacy of Opportunity and Excellence
A highlight of the evening was the presentation of the Opportunity, Talent and Environment Awards, named in honor of Dr. Carolyn Brown. These awards recognize individuals who foster a culture where all are welcomed, supported and empowered to succeed.
This year's recipients include:
- Graduate Student Award: Lakysha Sakthisivabalan, whose research on healthcare access and leadership within the graduate student community advance both equity and connection.
- Graduate Student Award: Kiersten Bell, who has built meaningful outreach programs connecting science with local schools and communities.
- Faculty Award: Dr. Grace Lee, celebrated for her transformative mentorship and dedication to developing future leaders in pharmacy and research.
- Staff Award: Iris Bae, recognized for her leadership in expanding the LEADER program and supporting students across institutions.
The recognition is especially meaningful as the college also celebrates Dr. Brown's extraordinary legacy. Through decades of leadership, research and mentorship, she has shaped a culture grounded in excellence, equity and service.
Celebrating the Student Experience
The evening concluded with Class Awards that reflect the personality, creativity and spirit of each cohort.
From "Best Study Buddy" and "What’s Up Doc?" to "Low-Dose, High Impact" and "PharmaFuturist," students were recognized not just for what they achieve, but for how they show up for one another every day. Awards like "Extra-Strength Leader," "Clinical Curiosity" and "Innovation and Entrepreneurship" highlight the many ways students contribute to a culture of collaboration, resilience and forward thinking.
Spanning the Classes of 2029 through the Class of 2027, these peer-nominated honors celebrate the small moments, inside jokes and everyday leadership that define the student experience and strengthen the College of Pharmacy community.
A Community Effort
The Celebration of Excellence is made possible through the dedication of student leaders, faculty and staff who work behind the scenes to bring the event to life. Special thanks to the UTCOP Pharmacy Council and the Professional Relations Committee for their leadership in organizing this year's celebration.
The college also recognizes and appreciates all nominees whose contributions continue to elevate the community. Their work, whether recognized on stage or not, is essential to the culture of excellence at the College of Pharmacy.
As the evening made clear, brilliance at Texas Pharmacy is not a single achievement but a shared commitment, one that continues to grow through teaching, service, leadership and care for others.
