In May, the School of Pharmacy’s Office of Experiential Education announced Christopher Jensen and Lisa Holle as the Dennis J. Chapron, Advanced Pharmacy Practice preceptors of the year. This recognition is based on nominations from students and is awarded to one non-faculty and one faculty member who have exhibited exceptional mentorship throughout the year.

Christopher Jensen, an alum of the School of Pharmacy, earned his Doctor of Pharmacy and Master of Business Administration degrees in 2017. He has been actively involved in the pharmaceutical and research field since 2013. In addition to his academic pursuits, Jensen participated in the pharmacy student government and Rho Chi Society. He also founded the Drug Information Association chapter at the School of Pharmacy and was an engaged member of the professional committee.

Throughout his career as an intern and pharmacist, Jensen has worked with various pharmaceutical companies, including Bristol Myers Squibb, Sanofi, Biohaven, and completed a fellowship with Alexion Pharmaceuticals in Global Medical Affairs. Presently, he holds the position of Director of Medical Affairs at Biohaven Pharmaceuticals where he takes students on a two-month rotation.

“I’m proud to be a UConn Pharmacy alum, and being a preceptor allows me to give back after all the support and opportunities I received during my time as a student,” says Jensen. “I owe my current role to the preceptors who supported me along my journey. Now, I’m fortunate to mentor the next generation of pharmacists and professionals, providing them with opportunities to achieve their career goals.”

Lisa Holle joined the School of Pharmacy in 2009 and holds a Doctor of Pharmacy degree from the University of Wisconsin. She has been mentoring students at the Carole and Ray Neag Comprehensive Cancer Center within UConn Health.  Holle’s commitment to the school and her students has earned her the rank of Clinical Professor, and she is board certified in oncology pharmacy.

Holle not only teaches students about medications, but she also is a role model for team-based care and displays compassion when working with her patients. Students noted that she takes notes for her patients during their office visits to help explain the toughest parts of chemotherapy. In addition, to the academic portion of the rotation, Holle takes a great interest in her students, pushing them to their limits. The students commented that she not only cares about who we are as students but also cares about who we are outside of pharmacy.

Jensen and Holle will be honored at a special reception this coming October.