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Vol. 2 No. 4

Perspectives

Spring 2002

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The Dean’s Corner By Dean Steven Leslie

As dean, I often find myself making decisions that involve a little give and take. This issue of Longhorn Pharmacy Focus is dedicated to a special kind of give and take--one in which I find particular satisfaction as it involves giving back.

I'm talking about students whose experiences in pharmacy school are enriched by the giving back of others, whether it is scholarship, grant, and loan programs that assist in the financial aspects of education, or the mentorships, preceptors, and other alumni assistance. Many alumni and friends of the College made their way through pharmacy school, then seemingly without pause or hesitation, turned back to offer their assistance in making the road a little smoother for the next generation.

It's about people like Coulter and Bobbie Sublett who became true and lasting friends of the College. Although neither was a graduate of our program, they took advantage of a rewarding career within the pharmaceutical industry, and gave generously to help assure a future generation of pharmacists.

It's about students who begin the progress of giving while they are still in school. At a time when it would be easy to focus inward, our students continue to bring distinction to our College through innovative community service projects that make a difference. Many become active participants in our numerous student organizations, not only for the career advancement possibilities these programs afford but also for the chance to make a difference.

This spring more than 100 students, staff, faculty, and alumni gave something back to the community by volunteering at Explore UT. Several hundred high school teachers and counselors, potential students and their families visited us on March 2. Some visitor may have discovered the valuable role of the community pharmacist. A public school teacher may have been inspired to introduce the sciences of our profession into the classroom. Someone in the crowd may have made a final decision to study pharmacy on that day. You just never know.

On a related note, I recently returned from a visit to Washington, D.C. where I had an opportunity to speak with our elected representatives concerning the Pharmacy Education Aid Act of 2001 (HR 2173). This legislation could prove extremely valuable for pharmacy education, for pharmacy students, and for consumers of health care in general. Read more about the Act on page 3 of this issue. If you agree that it holds merit, I encourage you to contact your elected officials and urge them to support the Act.