UMSOP Professor Honored by Board of Regents for Dedication to Student Support and Success

The University System of Maryland Regents Faculty Award for Excellence in Mentoring recognizes exceptional performance and significant contributions to student development.

By Pam Carder
April 21, 2025

Cherokee Layson-Wolf, PharmD, BCACP, FAPhA, professor of practice, sciences, and health outcomes research (P-SHOR) at the University of Maryland School of Pharmacy, has been honored with the 2025 University System of Maryland Regents Faculty Award for Excellence in Mentoring.

Layson-Wolf received the award on April 11 at the Board of Regents meeting.

“I am deeply grateful for the incredible journey I’ve had in my career and for the countless opportunities to mentor and support so many talented students,” reflects Layson-Wolf.

Layson-Wolf serves as course manager for the Doctor of Pharmacy (PharmD) program’s Over-the-Counter Medicines 2 course, Pharmacist in Charge elective, and is co-course manager for the Effective Communication elective. She also directs the Objective Structed Clinical Examination component of the PharmD program, coordinates the School’s annual seasonal immunization clinic, precepts community-based pharmacy residents, and contributes nationally as a member of the American Pharmacists Association’s (APhA) new Community Coordination Council.

Layson-Wolf is also pursuing a Master of Public Health degree. “The coursework is helping me strengthen my knowledge base and also helps me stay in touch with the student experience of juggling multiple responsibilities while meeting educational demands,” she says.

Supporting Students Through Challenges and Triumphs

In a variety of roles throughout her two-decade career at the School of Pharmacy, Layson-Wolf has helped hundreds of students overcome academic challenges, manage stress, and balance work-life demands, ensuring they are well-prepared to navigate the evolving pharmacy landscape.

“Dr. Layson-Wolf is a true role model for students, demonstrating unwavering dedication to their success,” says Jill Morgan, PharmD, BCPS, BCPPS, FNAP, professor and chair of P-SHOR. “Students regularly seek her guidance on navigating academic challenges and balancing the demands of life while pursuing a rigorous curriculum. Even after graduation, she maintains strong connections with students and residents, who recognize her as a trusted resource for achieving their professional goals.”

A Mentor Who Shapes Future Leaders in Pharmacy

Layson-Wolf’s legacy as a mentor is evident in the continued success of her mentees, who embody her values of patient care, professional excellence, and advocacy for the pharmacy profession.

“Dr. Layson-Wolf has devoted her entire academic career to supporting and mentoring pharmacy students,” says Sarah L.J. Michel, PhD, dean of UMSOP and professor of pharmaceutical sciences. “Since joining the University of Maryland School of Pharmacy in 2001, she has held significant roles, including associate dean for student affairs and community residency director. She has worked relentlessly to foster student success at every stage, from recruitment to licensure, and has become a trusted advisor for students seeking guidance on both academic and personal challenges.”

Building Strong, Lifelong Connections with Students

Layson-Wolf’s support extends beyond traditional academics, guiding students toward successful careers with high retention, graduation, and placement rates.

“Ever since my first year of pharmacy school, Dr. Layson-Wolf has always made it clear through her actions that she’s approachable and truly open for conversations. She genuinely makes time for others – whether it’s a discussion about academics, checking in on your well-being, a casual chat or having those harder, vulnerable personal conversations.” says Belinda Tamrakar, PharmD, a 2024 UMSOP graduate and former mentee of Layson-Wolf.

“Dr. Layson-Wolf has fully supported my diverse career aspirations, from working together at COVID-19 vaccination clinics, to my managed care pharmacy seminars, public health initiatives, industry fellowship exploration, pharmapreneurship projects, and scholarship pursuits,” continues Tamrakar. “As my mentor, her support has been invaluable to both my professional development and personal growth.”

A Visionary Advocate for the Pharmacy Profession

Under her guidance, student organizations, particularly the UMSOP chapter of the American Pharmacists Association-Academy of Student Pharmacists (APhA-ASP), have flourished, earning national recognition and providing students with unparalleled professional development opportunities.

Layson-Wolf’s influence continues to bolster the next generation of pharmacists, many of whom now hold leadership positions within the Maryland Pharmacists Association (MPhA), where they contribute to advancing patient care and pharmacy advocacy.

“Dr. Layson-Wolf’s unwavering dedication to both her students and the broader pharmacy community is truly exceptional,” says Morgan. “She continues to shape the future of pharmacy through her work with students, state and national organizations, and as a mentor, ensuring that the next generation of pharmacists is well-prepared to meet evolving needs.”

Leadership Beyond the Classroom: State and National Contributions

Beyond academic settings, Layson-Wolf plays a pivotal role in shaping the pharmacy community at both state and national levels. As a past chair of MPhA’s Board of Trustees, and a past president and speaker of the house, she has been a staunch advocate for expanding pharmacists’ scope of practice, including initiatives related to immunizations, point-of-care testing, and collaborative practice. Her contributions to APhA and APhA-ASP chapter have earned her numerous accolades, including MPhA Mentor of the Year in 2015 and APhA-ASP Chapter Advisor of the Year in 2016.

With more than two decades of service as co-advisor for APhA-ASP, Layson-Wolf has played a crucial role in guiding student leadership, supporting projects, and mentoring the next generation of pharmacists.

Reflections on Mentorship and the Reward of Student Success

“Watching them grow, overcome challenges, and achieve success in their careers is the most rewarding aspect of my work,” Layson-Wolf reflects. “Knowing that I have played a small part in their journey and that they are now making an impact in the pharmacy profession fills me with immense pride. Their accomplishments, both as students and as leaders in the field, are a testament to their hard work and dedication, and I am honored to have been a part of their path.”

Related News Stories

More Stories About: Cherokee Layson-Wolf Mentoring USM Board of Regents Awards