LKS spotlights student and alumni members that are making a difference in their chapters, in their communities, and in the field of pharmacy.
Chapter: Delta Chapter
About Nicole:
I graduated from the University of Pittsburgh (Delta Chapter) in 2014 and currently serve as the faculty advisor for Wilkes University (Alpha Phi Chapter). At Wilkes University, I am an Assistant Professor of Pharmacy Practice with my focus in community practice and diabetes education. My practice site is a grocery store chain pharmacy, Weis Markets, where I work with patients who have diabetes. Plus, I started MTM services and point-of-care testing, precept students, and have various outreach events in the community.
Outside of work, I enjoy spending time with my awesome husband going on various adventures with our two dogs, Remi and Stella. I am proud that family and relationships are my number one priority! My favorite activities are running, hiking and playing the piano. I also love traveling and exploring. In fact, as a fourth-year pharmacy student, I traveled to 9 different countries and drove across the U.S., visiting 20 states!
I have attended all APhA annual meetings, the past 2 AACP and all of our state organization meetings. I also went to the 2016 (Scranton) and 2017 (Atlanta) LKS Annual Conventions.
Most memorable LKS experience?
My most memorable LKS experience was during APhA 2011 in Seattle, Washington. I remember feeling lost as a first-year pharmacy student at a seemingly overwhelming meeting. I went to the LKS meet-up at Ruth’s Chris for dessert and remember meeting incredibly warm and welcoming sisters who took me under their wing and supported me through my first professional meeting. It was from that experience that sparked my desire to get more involved and hold leadership positions as a student pharmacist within the organization.
What advice would you give to fellow sisters?
One of my favorite quotes is “People don’t care how much you know until they know how much you care.” Always remember, whether you’re working as a manager of a community pharmacy, starting up new services or working in a hospital or ambulatory care setting, establishing relationships with those around you built on mutual respect and trust is crucial to success.
Why are you a lamb for life?
The connections and relationships I have developed through LKS are truly lifelong and ever-growing. I continue to collaborate, work and maintain amazing friendships with these incredible sisters. The core values and everything LKS represents directly align with my core values and vision for my career. As I continue my service to the organization as a faculty advisor, I continue to be amazed by each person in this fraternity living the mission and values of LKS every single day.
What job would you do if you weren’t a pharmacist?
I would be a preschool teacher. Before pharmacy, I actually wanted to have about 50 babies (I laugh at this now!!) and teach preschool. I love kids and having the opportunity to be so creative with them! This could be why I use things like “class dojo” with my college students!
