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School of Pharmacy Thanks David Stewart Associates Society Members

Annual event honors donors for generous support to the School of Pharmacy.

Five members at the David Stewart Associates 2024 event.

By Andrew Tie
June 10, 2024

The University of Maryland School of Pharmacy (UMSOP) hosted its annual event on May 21 for members of the David Stewart Associates (DSA) Society, the School’s recognition society for leadership level giving by individuals.

The DSA was founded in the mid-1980s in honor of David Stewart, the nation’s first professor of pharmacy and one of the School of Pharmacy’s founders. Members of this prestigious group recognize the importance of sustained leadership giving to provide a solid base of private support and ensure the School’s continued prominence. Members make an annual gift to the School of $1,000 or more.

More than half of the students attending the School of Pharmacy receive scholarship support thanks to the philanthropic contributions of individuals, including DSA Society members.

“There isn’t a long agenda for the night except for our top priority, which is celebrating and thanking our donors, supporters, and friends who are aligned with us in our mission to race towards greatness at the School of Pharmacy,” said Ken Boyden, JD, EdD, associate dean for development and alumni affairs.

Michel Expresses Appreciation

The event provided the first opportunity for Sarah L.J. Michel, PhD, dean of the School and professor of pharmaceutical sciences, to thank these key supporters of the School in person since her appointment in October 2023.

“When there are so many worthy causes to give to, we are grateful for and honored by your continued support,” Michel said. “Each of you here tonight believes in our mission, and our students directly benefit from your belief and generosity.

“Your gifts provide stabilizing funds for our students so that they can relentlessly pursue their academic dreams and transform the way that health care is and will be delivered. This year alone, more than 400 of our students have directly benefited from your generous support.”

UMSOP Community Contributes Record-Breaking Amount

The DSA Society event followed a record-breaking annual giving event for the School. During Giving Week held from May 1-8, more than 200 donors came together to raise more than $126,000 in support of student scholarships and financial assistance.

There are more than 1,000 students enrolled in the Doctor of Pharmacy (PharmD), PhD, and MS programs at the School who stand to benefit from these philanthropic efforts.

If you or someone you know is interested in becoming a member of the DSA Society, please contact Greer Griffith, MS, executive director of development, at 410-706-5893 or ggriffith@rx.umaryland.edu.

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