In the world of pharmacy, leadership is not just about guiding others—it’s about embodying a commitment to excellence, education, and advancement within the field. One individual who exemplifies these qualities is Dr. Marissa Salvo, an exceptional pharmacist, educator, and leader who has left an indelible mark on the profession. Nominated for the prestigious 2023 Lambda Kappa Sigma Vanguard Leadership Award by Christine Perry and the Alpha Beta collegiate chapter, Dr. Salvo’s contributions to pharmacy education, her extensive involvement in professional organizations, and her commitment to advancing the field have rightfully earned her this distinguished recognition.
Dr. Salvo’s educational journey has been marked by her dedication to both pharmacy practice and leadership. She earned her Doctor of Pharmacy degree with a minor in Leadership Studies from the University of Rhode Island, where she laid the foundation for her impactful career. After graduation, she pursued an ASHP Accredited PGY-1 Residency, focusing on ambulatory care and academia at the St. Louis College of Pharmacy, further enhancing her clinical skills and understanding of pharmaceutical care.
Her pursuit of excellence didn’t stop there. Dr. Salvo is a Board-Certified Ambulatory Care Pharmacist, holding certifications in medication therapy management, immunization, anticoagulation, and teaching. Her commitment to education and patient care has been integral to her career.
Since 2010, Dr. Salvo has been a vital part of the University of Connecticut (UConn), where she started as an Assistant Clinical Professor in the Department of Pharmacy Practice. Her passion for teaching, combined with her clinical expertise, has had a significant impact on the education of future pharmacists. She currently serves as the Associate Clinical Professor of Pharmacy Practice at UConn, where she plays a pivotal role in various courses, including the Pharmacy Communications course, which she coordinates and teaches in, and the Endocrine module. Additionally, she serves as an ambulatory care advanced pharmacy practice experience preceptor, helping students gain practical experience in real-world pharmacy settings.
Dr. Salvo’s involvement in professional organizations underscores her dedication to advancing the pharmacy profession. She is a member of esteemed organizations such as APhA, AACP, ACCP, Rho Chi, Phi Lambda Sigma, and the Connecticut Pharmacists Association (CPA). Her leadership roles within these organizations and numerous awards she’s received speak volumes about her contributions.
Currently serving on the APhA APPM’s Awards Committee and the Foundation’s Student Scholarship Committee, Dr. Salvo is continually working to recognize excellence and support the future generation of pharmacists. This Spring, she was honored with the 2023 APhA-APPM Distinguished Service Award, a testament to her impact on the field.
As President of CPA in 2021-2022, Dr. Salvo’s leadership during a major organizational update demonstrated her ability to navigate complex challenges and lead with vision. Her dedication to ensuring that the association remains at the forefront of advancing pharmacy practice showcases her commitment to the profession.
Dr. Marissa Salvo’s journey from a dedicated student to an inspiring educator and leader in the pharmacy world has been nothing short of remarkable. Her accomplishments, ranging from her academic achievements to her leadership roles in professional organizations, highlight her commitment to excellence and her unwavering dedication to the advancement of pharmacy education and practice. The Lambda Kappa Sigma Vanguard Leadership Award is a fitting recognition of Dr. Salvo’s significant contributions to the field, and we can undoubtedly expect to see her continue to make a positive impact for years to come.
