John Pugsley 7T1 BScPhm

Registrar-Treasurer, The Pharmacy Examining Board of Canada

John has made a profound impact on the pharmacy profession, known for his calm leadership and thoughtful decision-making. He is admired for his strategic thinking, unwavering commitment to doing the right thing, and dedication to his principles. John empowers others by providing guidance, fostering growth, and recognizing the accomplishments of his colleagues. His inclusive leadership style has mentored many of today’s pharmacy leaders, helping them excel in their roles. John’s ability to create a supportive, professional environment is reflected in his efforts to shape the future of pharmacy, encouraging others to contribute and grow in their careers.

Words from John:

"I am deeply honoured to receive the 2024 Leslie Dan Faculty of Pharmacy Hall of Distinction Award. It is humbling to be recognized by the alumni of the Faculty of Pharmacy. My studies at the faculty were particularly rewarding and invaluable in providing me with the foundational knowledge and skills required for patient focused pharmacy practice and effective professional collaboration. My subsequent 10 years of experience as a faculty member sparked my on-going passion for pharmacy education and assessment.

My accomplishments over many years at the Pharmacy Examining Board of Canada in developing and implementing new modes of assessment have been very satisfying and would not have been possible without the vision, leadership and support of my Board of Directors and senior management and staff at PEBC, as well as the many dedicated pharmacists and pharmacy technicians across Canada that I have been privileged to work with.

I am truly grateful to the University of Toronto pharmacy alumni for the recognition of my lifelong professional accomplishments. I will always cherish this prestigious award." 

Allan Mills 9T8 PharmD

Director of Pharmacy, Trillium Health Partners

Allan is well regarded for his distinguished career in education, his leadership, and his mentorship of others. As an Assistant Professor and Director of the Canadian Pharmacy Residency Board, he influences policy, enhances training standards, and mentors future pharmacy professionals. Allan's published research advances patient care and pharmacy practice, and his volunteerism has earned him multiple awards, including the University of Toronto Arbor Award. His contributions to committees and professional organizations reflect his unwavering dedication to improving pharmacy education, practice, and patient outcomes on local, provincial, and national levels. 

Words from Allan:

"I wanted to express my heartfelt gratitude for recognizing my volunteering efforts with this award. It truly means a lot to me to be acknowledged for my efforts in support the faculty and the Canadian Society of Hospital Pharmacists. I have always felt that the Leslie Dan Faculty of Pharmacy and the Canadian Society of Hospital Pharmacists are two key organizations that are instrumental in the development of pharmacists for the advancement of the profession. Being able to support the faculty through, lectures, working groups, and Dean search committees, has been fascinating and representing the Ontario Branch of the Canadian Society of Hospital Pharmacists and the Hospital Pharmacy Directors has been a labour of love. Little did I know in 1998 when I joined the Faculty Council I would still be part of that group in the mid 2020s representing CSHP-OB. Connecting the faculty and CSHP, as well as the opportunities to participate in the faculty enhancements and improvements, has led to other volunteering opportunities such as the Canadian Pharmacy Residency Board, the Canadian Hospital Pharmacy Survey Board, Provincial Advocacy Working Group. These opportunities have been a wonderful privilege to be part of and it has been so satisfying to have seen the successes of these groups and felt that I might have supported, in a small way, their progress.

Thank you once again for this incredible recognition." 

Shellyza Moledina Sajwani 1T8 PharmD

Co-Chair, Canadian Association of Pharmacy for the Environment (CAPhE)
President, Climaceutics Health Solutions 
Adjunct Professor, University of Ottawa  
Clinical Pharmacist, Ottawa Hospital 

Shellyza’s multi-faceted career exemplifies the power of intersectional leadership in pharmacy. With expertise spanning climate change, global health, and oncology, she co-founded Climaceutics Health Solutions to help pharmacies reduce their environmental impact. Her work as co-president of Pharmacists Without Borders Canada expanded missions globally, while her advocacy for oncology patients highlighted systemic gaps. Shellyza’s influence extends to policy development, co-chairing the first international climate pharmacy policy, and mentoring the next generation of pharmacists. A true changemaker, she relentlessly advocates for long-term institutional growth and global health, inspiring others with her dedication and vision for a better future.

Words from Shellyza:

"The Leadership in Pharmacy Practice Award is a profound honour, as it reflects the foundation laid during my PharmD for Pharmacists Program, and especially my experience within the global health rotation at the University of Toronto. I have been humbled to witness the university's leadership in global health and sustainability within pharmacy. My time at U of T was critical to help me learn to collaborate with diverse teams addressing the intersection of pharmacy and global health, and climate change. This recognition celebrates the collective efforts of those working together within changing times to continue to build meaningful, lasting change in partnership with communities both at home and worldwide, for the generations of tomorrow and the generations of today."

Cynthia Whitehead 1T1 PhD

Professor, Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto 
Director and Scientist, Wilson Centre for Education Research, University Health Network Temerty Medicine, BMO Chair in Health Professions Education Research

Dr. Cynthia Whitehead’s remarkable career exemplifies leadership, mentorship, and a deep commitment to advancing health professions education. As Director of the Wilson Centre for Education at U of T, she has shaped curriculum and research initiatives, fostering collaboration across disciplines. Her global influence in medical education, especially in the Global South, has created lasting partnerships and innovative programs. A mentor to many, she has empowered graduate students and faculty alike, bridging pharmacy and family medicine to enhance interprofessional learning. Dr. Whitehead’s dedication to intellectual curiosity and impactful education continues to inspire and transform healthcare education worldwide.

Words from Cynthia:

"I am truly honoured to receive this award! My doctoral studies in the Leslie Dan Faculty of Pharmacy under the exceptional supervision of Professor Zubin Austin set me up for academic success. I know Professor Austin’s wise counsel enabled me to move from major leadership positions in the Temerty Faculty of Medicine and the Department of Family and Community Medicine into a broader education leadership position as Director of the Wilson Centre for Research in Health Professions Education."

Peter (Chengming) Zhang 2T1 PharmD/2T2 MBA

Partner of Business Acceleration, ODAIA  
Clinical Pharmacist, Southlake Regional Health Centre

Peter is an emerging leader in pharmacy, inspiring others through his dedication to bridging academia, industry, and clinical practice. As a guest lecturer, mentor, and researcher, he fosters the growth of students and professionals alike. Peter’s extensive media presence, publications, and guest lectures demonstrate his commitment to advancing pharmacy practice, particularly through innovative technologies like artificial intelligence. His leadership, evident in roles such as Business Acceleration Partner at ODAIA Intelligence, exemplifies professionalism, kindness, and a passion for supporting the next generation of pharmacists, making him an influential ambassador for the pharmacy community.

Words from Peter:

"The experiences I had as a PharmD student and now as a PhD student have been transformative to my growth and development. My time as a student provided me with the opportunity to explore various intersections between pharmacy and disciplines such as business, technology, and public policy. These formative experiences became essential to the work I do today.  

I’m immensely grateful to the staff and faculty at the Leslie Dan Faculty of Pharmacy for the support and mentorship I received in my educational journey. I strive to pay it forward as a mentor and educator for future generations of students.  

I am also thankful to my mentors at the Rotman School of Management, Southlake Regional Health Centre, the Reach Alliance, ODAIA, Johnson & Johnson Innovative Medicine and my friends and family who encouraged me to pursue my passion for impact. The acknowledgement of my work through this award is a testament to the care of my community."

Noor Alsaden 1T9 PhD

Senior Clinical Evaluator, Health Canada

Noor is a remarkable leader and mentor in pharmaceutical sciences, inspiring others through her diverse career path and dedication to both research and education. As a Senior Clinical Evaluator at Health Canada, she ensures the safety and efficacy of new medications, making a direct impact on public health. Noor actively engages with students, sharing her experiences and career insights through lectures and networking events. Her leadership in various professional organizations, along with her numerous awards and publications, exemplifies her commitment to advancing the field and supporting the next generation of pharmacists. She is a true role model in pharmaceutical sciences.

Words from Noor:

"It is an honour to have been awarded the Leslie Dan Faculty of Pharmacy Alumni Award, I owe a significant debt of gratitude to the faculty, colleagues, friends, and family who contributed to my academic and professional success."

Hanie Yousefi 2T2 PhD

Postdoctoral Fellow, Chan Zuckerberg Biohub Network

Hanie is a remarkable leader and innovator in her field, balancing successful research, entrepreneurship, and community involvement. With a strong publication record in top journals, she has made significant contributions to both academia and industry. Hanie founded a thriving company to translate her research into industrial applications, demonstrating her entrepreneurial spirit. She has led student associations, mentored underrepresented students, and actively participated in faculty initiatives. Hanie’s resilience, collaborative nature, and commitment to empowering others make her an inspiring role model for aspiring scientists and leaders.

Words from Hanie:

"In 2018, I began my PhD journey in Pharmaceutical Sciences as a Chemical Engineer by training. Today, I am proud to say 'I am Pharmacy' by heart. I am deeply honored to receive this alumni award, which reflects the transformative experience I had at the Leslie Dan Faculty of Pharmacy.  

Reflecting on my time there, I feel incredibly fortunate to have been part of such a vibrant and inspiring community—one that not only excels in training world-class researchers but also prioritizes serving the community through impactful initiatives. My years at the faculty profoundly shaped the leader I am today, instilling enduring values of excellence, innovation, and service that continue to guide me. 

To the faculty, staff, and my fellow alumni: thank you for being an integral part of this journey. This recognition is as much a testament to your support and inspiration as it is to my own efforts."

Rexall

We are delighted to recognize Rexall for their remarkable contributions to advancing the pharmacy profession. Their steadfast support has enriched the Faculty with invaluable educational opportunities for students, both in and outside the classroom. Through initiatives like the I2CARE Award for Black and Indigenous Students, Rexall is driving inclusion and equity within pharmacy education. Their dedication not only fosters professional growth but also empowers the next generation of pharmacists, leaving a lasting impact on the pharmacy community. We are deeply grateful for Rexall's ongoing commitment to the Faculty’s success and its continued support of our mission.

Words from Rexall:

"We are honoured to receive the Leslie Dan Faculty of Pharmacy Corporate Partnership Award from the University of Toronto. It is a privilege to collaborate with the esteemed faculty and engage with exceptional students who represent the bright future of pharmacy. 

We value this meaningful partnership and thank the Faculty for their unwavering dedication to education, innovation, and the profession of pharmacy in Canada."

Pharmasave

We are delighted to recognize Pharmasave for their unwavering commitment to mentoring and training students through impactful programs like preceptorships and industrial residencies. Their long-term dedication to student preparation and professional development plays a crucial role in shaping the future of pharmacy. We are deeply grateful for Pharmasave’s continued support and are delighted to celebrate their contributions to the education and advancement of future pharmacy professionals.

Words from Pharmasave:

"Pharmasave is honoured to receive the 2024 Leslie Dan Faculty of Pharmacy Corporate Partnership Service Award. This recognition reflects the incredible support our Pharmasave store members have provided to pharmacy students through hands-on learning, rotations, and mentorship. As healthcare and pharmacy continue to transform, we remain committed to investing in the future leaders of our profession, ensuring they have the skills and experiences needed to thrive in this evolving landscape. We are proud to partner with the Leslie Dan Faculty of Pharmacy to contribute to the growth and development of the next generation of pharmacists."