September 8, 2016
By Sydney DuPriest
The Phi Lambda Sigma pharmacy leadership society hosts its annual Leadership Retreat Friday, Sep. 9 for student leaders in the School of Pharmacy. Guest speaker Mandi Stanley will deliver a presentation on public speaking, and a panel of faculty and pharmacy leaders will advise on student leadership skills.
Sponsors, officers and advisors of Phi Lambda Sigma before the retreat, along with Dean David D Allen and guest speaker Mandi Stanley.
Phi Lambda Sigma is a national society dedicated to preparing student pharmacists to be leaders in their profession. The retreat, which began at the school in 2010, is a chance for student leaders to network and receive advice. The meeting is open to a group of elected student leaders in the School of Pharmacy, as well as members of the University of Mississippi Phi Lambda Sigma chapter.
“We have so many great student leaders in the School of Pharmacy, and this retreat is all about building them up in every sense of the phrase,” said Stephanie Sollis, PY4 student and president of the university chapter of Phi Lambda Sigma. “Our student leaders do so much to support our school and students, and they deserve a retreat that gives them the necessary tools to be the best student leaders possible. We consider both planning and attending this event an honor and privilege.”
Guest speaker Mandi Stanley taught student pharmacists how to present themselves while speaking in public.
This year’s guest speaker, Mandi Stanley, is a certified speaking professional and Mississippi native. She will deliver a multipart talk titled “Hair on Fire!” detailing presentation and public speaking skills for students.
“We thought that she would be a great addition to our retreat due to the fact that she had experience reaching college-aged students,” Sollis said. “She has a fantastic communications piece that I think will be very applicable to our student leaders.”
A panel discussion including Alice Clark, vice chancellor for university relations, will follow the guest speaker and representatives from both the Oxford and Jackson campuses will share organizational resources with students. Dean David D. Allen will also attend a portion of the retreat and speak about the importance of leadership.
“Leadership skills are incredibly important, especially in health care,” Allen said. “Having leadership experience gives pharmacy professionals the confidence to speak up for what is best for the profession to give patients the best possible care.”
The event is sponsored by Walgreens and the Mississippi Pharmacists Association, and will feature Taylor Grocery catering for lunch.