News

Drake University's top awards for faculty and staff recently were presented to James Dodd, the Aliber distinguished professor of accounting; and Geoffrey Wall,associate professor of pharmacy practice. 

Dodd received the 2008 Madelyn Levitt Teacher of the Year award, which recognizes the Drake faculty member who best demonstrates excellence in teaching, inspirational leadership and intellectual rigor, at Drake's Undergraduate Commencement Ceremony on Sunday, May 18.

Later that day at the graduate commencement ceremony, Wall received the 2008 Madelyn Levitt Mentor Award, which recognizes faculty and staff who exhibit outstanding commitment to student success in and out of the classroom, as well as integrity in personal relationships.

Wall, who joined Drake's College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences in 1999, has shown dedication to teaching, scholarship and the future professional development of his students. He works with students in the capstone advance practice experience rotations, specifically with internal medicine and critical care.

"Around 50 percent of our students request Geoff's rotations as their first choice, and each year every slot he gives me for students is filled," said Denise Soltis, director of pharmacy experiential programs. "Every year I have someone in my office in tears because they didn't get Dr. Wall's rotation."

In addition to mentoring students in rotation, he teaches clinical pharmacokinetics and therapeutics.

In a number of letters of recommendation, colleagues, students and alumni cite Wall's enthusiasm, dedication and encouragement in motivating them to look beyond surface opportunities and set higher goals.

"Webster's Dictionary defines mentor as a 'trusted counselor or guide; tutor; coach.' These terms are embodied in Dr. Wall," said Carrie Koenigsfeld, associate professor of pharmacy practice. "He believes in what he does and knows that the future of pharmacy lies with the students. Ultimately, students respect him."

Wall has been recognized by the College of Pharmacy as the Hartig Distinguished Professor, Mentor of the Year and twice as Preceptor of the Year.

"On a more personal level, I try to establish a relationship of trust, collegiality with students, to see me more as a colleague and less as 'THE PROFESSOR,'" said Wall. "I feel this establishes a thorough communication link, whereby students can approach me with ease and trust.

"Among the most rewarding times of my career," Wall added, "have been when former students now pharmacists practicing at a high level, cite me as an influence in their career choice."

Jim Dodd, President David Maxwell and
Geoffrey Wall pose for a photo at
Drake's Undergraduate Commencement Ceremony.







President David Maxwell congratulates
Geoffrey Wall on receiving
Drake's Levitt Mentor of the Year Award.