Two graduate students and one PharmD candidate have received the University of Toronto Student Leadership Award, a university-wide award recognizing students who demonstrate outstanding student leadership and volunteer service.
These three students have contributed to creating a high-quality learning and social environment for students at the Leslie Dan Faculty of Pharmacy through their leadership in student groups.
Sarah Cash
PhD candidate, Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences
Sarah Cash has been involved in numerous student-led initiatives that have helped to enhance academic, professional development and social opportunities at the Leslie Dan Faculty of Pharmacy. She has held roles on the American Association of Pharmaceutical Sciences U of T Student Chapter, Life Science Career Development Syndicate, Graduate Research in Progress Symposium and Pharmaceutical Sciences Graduate Student Association, including serving as co-president. She also launched a mentorship program that pairs new graduate students with upper-year students to navigate their transition to graduate studies.
“Being actively involved in student groups has been a deeply meaningful part of my time at the University of Toronto. My participation in various societies has been very rewarding, allowing me to witness the growth and success of fellow graduate students within the Leslie Dan Faculty of Pharmacy. Volunteering has also allowed me to enhance my professional development skills, build lasting friendships, and contribute to the graduate student community.
Receiving this award is one of my proudest achievements at the University of Toronto. Participating in societies at the Leslie Dan Faculty of Pharmacy has been an enriching experience, and I am truly honoured to be a recipient of the U of T Student Leadership Award.”
“Volunteering has allowed me to enhance my professional development skills, build lasting friendships, and contribute to the graduate student community.”
Alex Golubovic
MSc candidate, Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences
Alex Golubovic has participated in different committees to promote graduate student research and enrich the student experience at the Leslie Dan Faculty of Pharmacy. He served as an executive member of the Pharmaceutical Sciences Graduate Student Association, represented graduate students from the Faculty on the U of T Graduate Students’ Union, and promoted the Faculty as a tour guide for high school students. As co-chair of the Graduate Research in Progress Symposium in 2024, Golubovic introduced new initiatives such as Three Minute Thesis, lightning talks and photo competitions to enhance engagement and showcase graduate student research.
“By taking on leadership roles, I have been able to advocate for students’ needs, create opportunities for engagement, and contribute to a more satisfying academic environment. These experiences have also helped me build my network and develop valuable leadership skills, which will continue to benefit me beyond my time as a student.
This recognition reinforces the value of student advocacy and leadership, and I’m grateful to have played a role in strengthening our community. It is a badge I can wear proudly and motivates me to continue contributing beyond my time at the university.”
“This recognition reinforces the value of student advocacy and leadership, and I’m grateful to have played a role in strengthening our community.”
Lina Yacoub
Doctor of Pharmacy, 2T5
Lina Yacoub has helped in the professional development of her PharmD classmates through serving in different roles on the Pharmacy/PharmaSEE Mentorship Program, including president. Yacoub also served as Health Fair Manager for the Canadian Association of Pharmacy Students and Interns, helping organize a health fair that showcased various professions in pharmacy for students. She is a passionate advocate for her classmates and the pharmacy profession.
“Giving back to my community has allowed me to create opportunities that bring students together, foster mentorship, and enhance learning experiences. … Knowing that the changes I’ve contributed to will continue benefiting others long after my time at the faculty is something I am very proud of. … I have also gained confidence, resilience, and a deeper appreciation for the impact we can have when we work together.
This award is not just a reflection of my accomplishments but a testament to the power of collaboration in making change possible. Leadership is about creating opportunities for others, fostering meaningful connections, and leaving a positive impact that lasts beyond our time in school. This award motivates me to continue advocating for students, strengthening our community, and finding ways to contribute to the future of the pharmacy profession.”
“Leadership is about creating opportunities for others, fostering meaningful connections, and leaving a positive impact that lasts beyond our time in school.”
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