PharmD Class of 2028 receives white coats in inspiring ceremony
On Sept. 9, the College of Pharmacy’s doctor of pharmacy Class of 2028 donned the white coats of their profession for the first time, assisted by faculty, staff and mentors.
The new students – 59 in total – hail from 10 different countries, four provinces across Canada, and Indigenous, rural and urban communities.
Welcoming the new students, Dr. Lalitha Raman-Wilms, dean, encouraged the students to make the most of their unique experiences and to bring those insights to their studies and their future work in the patient-centred profession of pharmacy.
“We hope you will bring your diverse and interesting perspectives to class discussions throughout your program,” she said.
Raman-Wilms assured students those experiences will serve them well as they go on to support the health-care needs of patients across Manitoba and beyond. “This future role and all that it entails will be a compass as you navigate the next four years of your education here.”
Ryan Buffie, chair of the College of Pharmacists of Manitoba, encouraged students to make the most of those opportunities, especially as the field of pharmacy is rapidly evolving.
When he began his career, the role of the pharmacist was much different than it is today. “Our scope was limited. We could not inject, prescribe or practise pharmacy in the way that we do today,” said Buffie. “The progress of our profession has been nothing short of remarkable.”
Pharmacy is well-known for its close-knit community, both at the College of Pharmacy and beyond, pointed out Lanette Siragusa, vice-dean, education, Rady Faculty of Health Sciences and chief executive officer, Shared Health.
“If there is one thing I want you to take away from today, it is that you will never be alone on this journey. You are now part of an enormous and amazing team – a team filled with mentors and colleagues and friends who are going to support you and cheer you on along the way,” she added. “As you take this next step as a pharmacist, I want to thank you for the decision to become a pharmacist.”
Brandonite Brooklynn Sawchuk, recipient of the Marguerite Hulme Scholarship in Pharmacy, said, “I’m new to the city and I’m excited about all the opportunities that Winnipeg has presented to me already.”
She summed up the energy of the Class of 2028 as they left to enjoy a reception with their family and friends. “Today has been a really big deal,” Sawchuk enthused. “I can’t wait to get started.”
Along with Sawchuk, first year award recipients include:
- Juliana Delos Reyes – Ronald F. Guse Scholarship for Excellence in Pharmacy
- Lara Denbow – William G. Eamer Community Leadership Undergraduate Scholarship
- Grace Dixon – William G. Eamer Community Leadership Undergraduate Scholarship