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The Ohio Valley Conference (OVC) awarded Southern Illinois University Edwardsville’s Kelly Gable, PharmD, BCPP, the inaugural Outstanding Faculty Commitment to Student Success Award. The award is given to a faculty member at each OVC member institution, recognizing their impact on students, contributions to the department, university and curriculum development, professional development and community involvement.

“I was so honored to even be considered for this inaugural award,” said Gable. “I gravitated toward academia with a hope to have a lasting impact in how future pharmacists approach the behavioral health care needs of our communities. What I have learned along the way is that self-compassion and self-care is a critical part of the journey. I hope that our students leave SIUE feeling more grounded in their sense of self and their commitment to providing the most equitable care to their patients.”

Gable is a professor in SIUE’s School of Pharmacy (SOP) and is the director of well-being and resilience. As director, she serves as a key leader for strategy, policy, and practice related to matters of mental health and wellness, while fostering a healthy climate for faculty, staff and students within the school.

“Dr. Gable's track record is tangible, both quantitatively and qualitatively, in how she positively influences students regarding their success, retention, and scholarly activity,” said Mark Luer, PharmD, FCCP, professor and dean of the SOP. “Her contributions in the areas of research and scholarly activity have been exceptional, bridging specialty areas and is frequently student-focused.”

“Dr. Gable has been a trailblazer in terms of engaging students through novel pedagogical techniques, focused elective opportunities, a compassionate approach to student success, as well as a contagiously positive attitude and sense of humor both in and out of the classroom,” added Chris Herndon, PharmD, BCACP, professor in the SOP. “Dr. Gable incorporates her clinical expertise, empathy, and natural curiosity into all of her student interactions.”

Gable has had a profound impact on her students. Her character and personal investment in students’ success stand out among her peers and her students.

“I am committed to creating a culture of well-being and inclusiveness for all of our students,” said Gable. “I want to see our students not just graduate from a rigorous graduate program, but to feel connected to their SIUE community in the process.”

Photo: SIUE’s School of Pharmacy Kelly Gable, PharmD, BCPP.