June, 9, 2022
OXFORD, Miss. – The University of Mississippi School of Pharmacy recognized four of its faculty members for their excellence in and commitment to teaching, service and research during its annual Faculty and Research Scientist Advancement.
“We have some of the finest faculty and research scientists that go above and beyond to advance the mission of our profession,” said Donna Strum, dean of the School of Pharmacy. “It’s truly a privilege to be able to celebrate the important work they do.”
Gary Theilman
Gary Theilman, associate professor of pharmacy practice, received the Faculty Instructional Innovation Award, which honors cutting-edge teaching techniques.
Theilman utilized his software skills to create new programs to help his students with their studies. Included in those programs was an online tool that could be used by students during group readiness assurance testing. When the COVID-19 pandemic made remote learning necessary, Thelma adapted this tool so it could be used in Zoom class sessions.
The tool proved to be so useful that dozens of educators across the world used the tool in their own classrooms.
Marie Barnard
The Faculty Service Award was given to Marie Barnard, associate professor of pharmacy administration, for her support for the school and profession.
Barnard serves as the Graduate Program Coordinator for the Department of Pharmacy Administration, where she advises all graduate students and plays an essential role in recruitment, admission, academic advising and mentoring. She also serves on many committees within the School of Pharmacy dedicated to the well-being of students.
The entire university has benefited from Barnard’s service, as well. She was actively involved in the university’s COVID-19 vaccination efforts, and has volunteered in COVID-19 clinics.
John Bentley
John Bentley, professor of pharmacy administration, was recognized for his research contributions with the Cumberland Pharmaceuticals Inc. Faculty Research Award.
Bentley has developed a reputation as an active researcher during his time with the school. As a principal investigator, he has secured more than $300,000 in funding over the past three years. During the same period, Bentley also served as co-investigator on a number of funded projects.
Bentley is also a prolific writer, publishing 41 peer-reviewed articles in high-impact journals. In addition, he has delivered 37 presentations and invited talks at national and international conferences.
Cole Stevens
The New Investigator Award was presented to Cole Stevens, assistant professor of pharmacognosy, for his contributions to the school and research.
Since joining the school, Stevens has made a significant impact. He is principal investigator on two grants funded through the National Institutes of Health. Stevens has also seen his work on myxobacteria published in high-impact journals.
Stevens mentors graduate students within the Department of BioMolecular Sciences, serving as the Graduate Program Coordinator for the pharmacognosy division. He aids students as both a research advisor and serves thesis and dissertation committees.