SIUE School of Pharmacy’s Kerr is IPhA Educator of the Year
A Southern Illinois University Edwardsville School of Pharmacy (SOP) faculty member and an alumnus were honored at the Illinois Pharmacists Association’s (IPhA) annual conference in Chicago in late September. Dr. Jessica Kerr, assistant chair and associate professor in the SOP, received the Educator of the Year Award for her leadership in education and involvement in IPhA.
“I am honored to receive the inaugural Educator of the Year award from the Illinois Pharmacists Association,” Kerr said. “Without the motivation and passion of the SOP professional students, this award would not have been possible. I have worked with SOP students since 2005 in didactic, clinical and service-capacity settings. Their will and determination to promote pharmacy and better themselves is what drives me to be an evolving professor.”
Kerr said her involvement with IPhA has not only made her a better educator, but also a better pharmacist, as well. Her IPhA membership has created opportunities for her to deliver regional, state and national educational materials to pharmacists, pharmacy students and technicians in order to enhance their continued professional development.
“As faculty members, we strive to create new futures for our students,” said Gireesh Gupchup, SOP dean. “Dr. Kerr embodies this philosophy. She is not only an excellent teacher, but also serves as a role model for young student pharmacists. She encourages students to challenge the boundaries of current practice and strive for excellence.”
Dr. Goldie Peters, a graduate of the SOP 2009 inaugural class, was presented with the Distinguished Young Pharmacist/Edmond Barcus Award.
“Since graduating from the SIUE SOP, Dr. Peters has helped students at the St. Louis College of Pharmacy achieve their potential as a faculty mentor,” Gupchup said. “It was heartening to see his students make the trip to Chicago to see him receive the award. At the SIUE School of Pharmacy, we are proud of the impact he has on the profession and his students.”
“This award has allowed me to reflect on my journey to this point in my career,” Peters said. “It is truly an honor to be recognized for working toward my goals of giving back to the profession and providing quality educational experiences to our future pharmacists.”
Photo: Dr. Jessica Kerr, assistant chair and associate professor in the SOP.
