Celebrating excellence with U of T-wide student services award

The Jill Matus Excellence in Student Services Award at the University of Toronto is a distinguished recognition of individuals who demonstrate exceptional dedication and proficiency in supporting students. Among the recipients for 2024 is Cecelia Power, program coordinator for the PharmD for Pharmacists program at the Leslie Dan Faculty of Pharmacy.

Since April 2019, Power has skillfully managed program operations, providing practicing pharmacists with the opportunity to pursue advanced degrees while balancing professional commitments. Her unwavering commitment to enhancing student experience is evident in her pivotal role as the first point of contact for a range of student inquiries, ranging from academic planning to facilitating crucial program updates.

“I find great satisfaction in assisting students to develop personalized plans that not only fulfill program requirements but also align with their individual goals and timelines.”

Power’s path to her current role began when she worked as an ESL teacher. Her interest in online teaching eventually led her to administrative roles in education. “I find great satisfaction in assisting students to develop personalized plans that not only fulfill program requirements but also align with their individual goals and timelines,” says Power. Her background in online teaching has equipped her with valuable insights, enabling her to offer tailored support to practicing pharmacists returning to formal education after many years.

“One of my achievements within the program has been cultivating a sense of community and visibility despite limited in-person interactions,” says Power. “This has been achieved by encouraging students to create online profiles, establishing a program-specific peer mentorship program, and personally getting to know each student. By recognizing students individually, I believe they feel valued and supported, positively impacting their studies.”

A ceremony to officially present The Jill Matus Excellence in Student Services Award, among U of T’s Awards of Excellence, is scheduled to take place in spring 2024.

“I am so honored to have won this award,” says Power. “I feel incredibly lucky to have a job that I truly enjoy and the opportunity to work with an amazing team in an incredible Faculty. I hope to be able to continue to support pharmacists in reaching their educational goals.”