APhA-ASP Named Inaugural Recipient of UMB Student Organization Leadership Award

The UMSOP student organization was recognized for exceptional leadership, service, and impact across the University of Maryland, Baltimore community.

By Pam Carder
June 15, 2026

The American Pharmacists Association–Academy of Student Pharmacists (APhA-ASP) at the University of Maryland School of Pharmacy (UMSOP) has been named the inaugural recipient of the University of Maryland, Baltimore’s (UMB) University Student Government Association (USGA) Student Organization Leadership Award, earning a unanimous rating of “Exceptional” across all award criteria.

The recognition reflects the chapter’s impact throughout the 2025–2026 academic year through leadership development, community engagement, collaboration, service, and innovative programming that strengthened both the School and the broader UMB community.

“One of the things that makes APhA-ASP so meaningful is the sense of community it creates,” said Abby Le, third-year student pharmacist and president of APhA-ASP. “Whether students are attending their first event, participating in a patient care initiative, or stepping into a leadership role, they find opportunities to connect, grow, and contribute in ways that extend beyond the classroom.”

Building Belonging and Community

In the 2025-2026 academic year, APhA-ASP cultivated a highly welcoming and connected environment through 98 events that engaged students at UMSOP across class years and disciplines. Signature programs such as the Welcome Back Social and APhA-ASPalooza brought together hundreds of student pharmacists, creating opportunities for connection, engagement, and early integration into campus life. Wellness-focused initiatives and general body programming further reinforced peer support during high-stress periods, helping students feel supported and connected within the School community.

Beyond the School of Pharmacy, APhA-ASP strengthened campus-wide belonging through participation in interprofessional initiatives such as the UMB Wellness Fair, helping bridge connections across disciplines and contribute to a more collaborative UMB community.

Exemplary Student Leadership Development

APhA-ASP provides students with meaningful, hands-on leadership experiences grounded in empathy, inclusivity, adaptability, critical thinking, and professional growth. Through seven major patient care initiatives, student pharmacists engaged in real-world leadership experiences including Operation Immunization and large-scale clinical outreach events such as the annual vaccine clinic at UMB’s Health Sciences and Human Services Library.

Students developed evidence-informed decision-making and patient-centered communication skills while addressing vaccine hesitancy, translating complex health information, and tailoring outreach to diverse populations.

Engagement, Collaboration, and Service

The organization demonstrated exceptional engagement in campus life through monthly programming and partnerships with more than 20 campus and community organizations. Collaborations with groups such as the International Pharmaceutical Students’ Federation (IPSF), the International Students’ Organization, and multiple public health and professional groups supported interprofessional learning, cultural exchange, and service to the public good.

The organization’s impact extended beyond campus through clinics, school outreach, cultural festivals, and public health education initiatives that reached thousands of patients, students, and community members while reinforcing health equity and access to care.

Innovation and Adaptability in Action

Innovation has been a defining feature of APhA-ASP’s work. The organization launched and expanded initiatives such as Why Vaccines Matter: Myth vs. Fact, interactive vaccine education tools for children, and an enhanced Little Free Library program that distributes evidence-based health education materials on overdose prevention, cancer awareness, and chronic disease management.

These efforts reflect a sustained commitment to creativity, responsiveness, and addressing evolving community health needs.

National and Regional Recognition

The USGA award adds to a growing list of honors recognizing the chapter’s excellence. During the 2025–26 academic year, APhA-ASP also received national recognition at the American Pharmacists Association Annual Meeting and Exposition, including Chapter of the Year honors and multiple awards for patient care and public health initiatives. The organization has also earned several regional awards highlighting its leadership, service, and community impact.

Perspectives

Students and faculty highlighted the chapter’s role in shaping leadership skills, professional identity, and service to the community.

“We are incredibly honored to be selected as the inaugural recipient of UMB’s Student Organization Leadership Award,” said Le. “This recognition reflects the dedication of our executive board and members, whose passion for service, leadership, and patient care drives everything we do. We are proud of the impact our chapter has made on campus and in the community.”

“What makes this chapter exceptional is that students are not only serving their communities today, but also developing the skills and confidence to become leaders in the profession,” said Cherokee Layson-Wolf, PharmD, professor in the Department of Practice, Sciences, and Health Outcomes Research and faculty advisor for APhA-ASP. “This award recognizes the incredible impact they are making both within the School and beyond.”

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