School of Pharmacy’s Howarth Named UMB’s January Employee of the Month

The lead training specialist for The PATIENTS Program is a catalyst for community engagement and innovation.

By Joanne Morrison, as published in The Elm
January 30, 2025

When it comes to fostering collaboration, advancing health equity, and building meaningful relationships within and beyond the University of Maryland, Baltimore (UMB), few individuals stand out quite like Thomas “Joe” Howarth, PhD, MS.

As the lead training specialist for The PATIENTS Program within the University of Maryland School of Pharmacy (UMSOP), Howarth has been a driving force in developing programs that exemplify UMB’s core values of Respect and Integrity, Innovation and Discovery, and Equity and Justice. His dedication and achievements have led to him being named UMB’s Employee of the Month for January.

“Obviously, this is an incredible honor. It is without any competition the best job I’ve ever had, and I think it comes down to the culture of this University and the culture of this team,” said Howarth, who joined The PATIENTS Program in 2022 with the mission to advance patient-centered, community-engaged research.

One of his most significant contributions has been the development and launch of the PATIENTS Professors Academy (PPA). This free annual five-week online program serves as a platform to bring together patients, caregivers, government representatives, researchers, pharmaceutical representatives, and more to learn from each other on how to conduct patient-centered and community-engaged health research guided by the PATIENTS 10-Step Engagement Framework. Since its inception in 2022, PPA has engaged over 250 participants, including UMB faculty, staff, and students, as well as patients, caregivers, government representatives, and pharmaceutical professionals.

“Joe has an incredible ability to connect with people from all walks of life, making everyone feel seen, heard, and valued,” said C. Daniel Mullens, PhD, executive director of The PATIENTS Program. “Whether he’s engaging with patients, researchers, or community members, Joe’s genuine approach and relatability have been key to building trust and fostering meaningful collaboration. His work on initiatives like the PATIENTS Professors Academy reflects his unique talent for uniting diverse voices and creating inclusive spaces where impactful research can thrive.”

Setting a 10-Step Engagement Framework

At the heart of PPA is the PATIENTS 10-Step Engagement Framework, a model that empowers participants to conduct research that is truly patient-centered and community-focused. Howarth’s leadership has ensured that the academy remains dynamic and inclusive, with weekly interactive sessions co-led by patient advisors, known as PATIENTS Professors. These individuals bring the lived experience of managing medical conditions, while researchers share expertise in designing and implementing studies. This unique collaboration has not only enriched the learning experience but has also fostered lasting relationships among participants.

Many PPA graduates have returned as facilitators, a testament to the strong community bonds Howarth has cultivated. His efforts in building this network of engaged and empowered individuals reflect his unwavering commitment to respect, innovation, and discovery.

His contributions extend beyond the PPA to the CO-PILLAR project (Community-Based Collaboration to Address the Mental Health PILLAR in PCOR/CER Research). This initiative focuses on building capacity for mental health patient-centered outcomes research (PCOR) through community engagement. CO-PILLAR’s programming, guided by a Council of Community Partners, leads participants through a comprehensive learning continuum: “We Learn,” “We Workshop,” “We Prepare,” and “Community Studios.” These stages transform participants from learners to leaders in mental health research.

“Joe has an incredible ability to connect with people from all walks of life, fostering trust and creating spaces where meaningful dialogue can flourish,” said Hillary Edwards, MHP, director of methodological research and evaluation, The PATIENTS Program. “His leadership in programs like the PATIENTS Professors Academy and CO-PILLAR has expanded the reach and impact of The PATIENTS Program, demonstrating the power of true community engagement. Joe’s work exemplifies the values of patient-centered research and has laid the foundation for a stronger, more inclusive research community.”

Creating a Safe and Trusting Environment

In his role, Howarth has been instrumental in leading virtual presentations and facilitating conversations on sensitive mental health topics. His ability to create a safe and trusting environment has been crucial to the program’s success.

As Michelle Medeiros, MS, MA, CCRP, director of research, The PATIENTS Program, noted, “Joe created a safe space for local community participants and participants from across the country to come together to discuss very difficult mental health-focused issues. In those conversations, it was evident that they trusted Joe and, by proxy, the others in the virtual room to respect their journeys, experiences, and feelings.”

Thanks to his efforts, CO-PILLAR participants are now poised to take their research ideas to the next level, transforming community discussions into actionable research proposals. His work has not only advanced the program’s goals but has also demonstrated the core values of Equity and Justice by ensuring that all voices are heard and respected.

Howarth’s impact extends beyond his professional role. As a staff senator representing the School of Pharmacy, he actively contributes to enhancing the University community. In 2024, Howarth graduated from UMB’s Emerging Leaders program and completed training as a restorative approaches facilitator within the School of Pharmacy. These achievements highlight his commitment to personal and professional growth, as well as his dedication to the well-being and sustainability of UMB.

“Joe’s work with the  PATIENTS Professors Academy and CO-PILLAR reflects the best of UMB’s values in action,” said Bruce E. Jarrell, MD, FACS, who surprised Howarth with the news he had won the award during a meeting Jan. 6. “His dedication and leadership have created opportunities for lasting impact, and we are fortunate to have him as a part of our UMB family.”

Howarth will receive a certificate, a letter of commendation, and an extra $250 in his next paycheck.

Howarth’s contributions exemplify the spirit of collaboration and innovation that defines UMB. Through his leadership, programs like the PATIENTS Professors Academy and CO-PILLAR have not only advanced the University’s mission but have also created lasting impacts on participants and their communities. His ability to build trust, foster engagement, and inspire others has made him a cornerstone of The PATIENTS Program and a shining example of UMB’s values in action.

 

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