Celebrating a Legacy: Linda Wastila’s Last Lecture and Next Chapter

A scholar, mentor, and advocate reflects on decades of impact on health policy and her new journey.

By Pam Carder
December 17, 2025

Linda Wastila, BSPharm, MSPH, PhD, a nationally recognized expert in prescription drug policy and aging at the University of Maryland School of Pharmacy (UMSOP), delivered her final lecture on Dec. 1 in Pharmacy Hall before embarking on retirement. She reflected on a career that has shaped research, teaching, and policy for more than two decades. A professor in UMSOP’s Department of Practice, Sciences, and Health Outcomes Research (P-SHOR) and director of research for the Peter Lamy Center on Drug Therapy and Aging, Wastila has spent her scholarly life examining how prescription drug policies affect real-world outcomes – particularly for older adults and vulnerable populations.

Her journey in public health began at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill and continued with a PhD in Health Policy at Brandeis University as a Pew Health Policy Fellow. Before joining the University of Maryland School of Pharmacy in 2001, she held positions at the Schneider Institute for Health Policy and Harvard Medical School. Her research has influenced state and federal policy, and improved medication safety in long-term care.

Jill Morgan, PharmD, BCPS, BCPPS, FNAP, professor and chair of P-SHOR, praised her impact: “Linda’s scholarship has shaped policy and protected the dignity of people too often overlooked.” Morgan added that Wastila’s greatest legacy lies in mentorship: “For all the grants, publications, and policy impact, Linda would tell you that her proudest achievements are her students and mentees – the many scientists, clinicians, educators, and leaders whom she has guided with wisdom and unwavering support.”

Reflections from the Last Lecture

Wastila shared the “Five Cs” principle that has guided her career: curiosity, critical thinking, communication, collegiality, and courage. “To be successful in your scholarly life, you need three things: curiosity, critical thinking, and communication – and I’d add heartfelt collegiality and courage,” she said.

She encouraged students and colleagues to embrace collaboration, mentorship, and innovation, while navigating challenges with integrity and compassion. She also illustrated her insights on resource allocation and policy with her signature “scarcity pie” metaphor and highlighted her approach to mentorship through the “Five Cs” model, demonstrating the lessons she has carried forward from decades of teaching and research.

A Legacy of Mentorship and Generosity

Sarah L.J. Michel, PhD, dean and professor of pharmaceutical sciences, remarked, “Linda is a consummate scholar, a dedicated mentor, and a valued member of the University of Maryland School of Pharmacy family. Her impact extends far beyond research — she has shaped the lives of countless individuals across this country.”

Fadia Shaya, PhD, MPH, professor of P-SHOR, a UMB Distinguished University Professor, and an MPower Professor reflected: “Linda has always inspired me. She has been a role model not only in her intellect but also in her humanity. Her sensitivity and authenticity are gifts I strive to emulate.”

Similarly, Danya Qato, PhD, PharmD, MPH, associate professor of P-SHOR, described Wastila as “a blossoming fig tree in academia – providing support, protection, and opportunity to colleagues and students alike. She encourages free thinking, challenges the status quo, and fosters spaces where scholarship and creativity flourish.” Qato emphasized how her mentorship extended beyond research, helping colleagues navigate the challenges of academic life while modeling integrity, courage, and generosity.

Beyond her professional achievements, Wastila has also embraced creative and personal pursuits. She earned a master’s degree in writing from Johns Hopkins University and has published widely, including award-winning fiction and poetry. In her retirement Wastila will be based in West Virginia, exploring plant medicine on a small herbal farm – a continuation of the nurturing and purposeful approach she has brought to her career.

View the photo album on Flickr.

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