The Preceptor of the Year awards presented each year by the Experiential Learning Program at the University of Maryland School of Pharmacy recognize preceptors who demonstrate commitment to excellence and outstanding contributions to the educational development of future pharmacists.
Preceptor of the Year awards are given to an introductory pharmacy practice experience (IPPE) preceptor and an advanced pharmacy practice experience (APPE) preceptor. There is also an award to honor new preceptors with fewer than three (3) years of experience, as well as an award to honor the Faculty Preceptor of the Year.
Below are the current and previous recipients of these awards. For information about how to nominate a preceptor for a future award, please review the Preceptor of the Year Nomination Form. View an archive of Preceptors of the Year.
2025 Award Recipients
Outstanding New Preceptor of the Year: Kenneth Saunders, PharmD, BCTXP (University of Maryland Medical Center)
Dr. Kenneth Saunders graduated from UMSOP and completed his PGY1 training at MedStar Georgetown University, followed by a PGY2 training at UMMC in Solid Organ Transplant. His interest in transplant pharmacy was sparked during a transplant elective course and further solidified through a transplant APPE rotation. Inspired by his preceptors' passion for transplant pharmacy and patient care, Dr. Saunders eagerly accepted the opportunity to stay-on at UMMC in the transplant nephrology clinic after completing his PGY2. There, he has been able to share his positive learning experiences with APPE students during their ambulatory care rotations. His students stated that “Dr. Saunders' deep knowledge of kidney transplant and strong teaching abilities created an enriching learning environment. He simplifies complex topics, making them digestible and applicable to real-world situations. His passion for patient care is evident in his communication and engagement, ensuring patients understand the complexities of their medical conditions. Dr. Saunders exemplifies outstanding preceptorship. His knowledge, compassion, and dedication to student growth make him a deserving candidate for the Preceptor of the Year Award."
IPPE Preceptor of the Year: Gladimir J. Elysee, PharmD (Kaiser Permanente)
Dr. Elysee graduated from Notre Dame of Maryland School of Pharmacy in 2014 and began his career at ShopRite Pharmacy in Harford County, MD. In 2022, he transitioned to Kaiser Permanente, where he currently serves as the supervisor at the Lutherville-Timonium location. Dr. Elysee enjoys the opportunity to develop talent and considers it a privilege to be a preceptor, giving back to the profession that has given him so much. A student shared, “Dr. Elysee actively tailored the rotation experience to align with my professional interests, offering valuable insights and connecting me with resources and individuals to help achieve my long-term goals. He made me feel like a valued team member by including me in various discussions and activities, even those beyond the typical scope of student involvement. His commitment to mentoring students, coupled with his enthusiasm for the profession, sets him apart as an outstanding preceptor deserving of this recognition.”
APPE Preceptor of the Year: Eun Jin Park, PharmD, BCPS, BCIDP (Johns Hopkins Howard County Medical Center)
Dr. Eun Jin Park serves as the antimicrobial stewardship pharmacist and residency program director at Johns Hopkins Howard County Medical Center. She earned her Doctor of Pharmacy degree from Northeastern University and completed her PGY1 pharmacy residency at Howard County Medical Center. Her student remarked that Dr. Park’s “enthusiasm for working with students is contagious. She created an engaging and educational experience, tailoring her teaching to my specific needs. She helped me build confidence in challenging areas and consistently provided constructive feedback and encouragement. Her dedication to my growth as a future pharmacist extended beyond this rotation, and I am grateful for her ongoing support. Dr. Park crafted a rotation experience that was not only educational but truly inspiring, making her an invaluable mentor.”
Faculty Preceptor of the Year: Nicole Brandt, PharmD, MBA, BCGP, FASCP (University of Maryland School of Pharmacy)
Dr. Nicole Brandt is a professor in the Department of Practice, Sciences, and Health Outcomes Research and the executive director of the Peter Lamy Center on Drug Therapy and Aging at the University of Maryland School of Pharmacy. Since joining the University of Maryland School of Pharmacy, Dr. Brandt has greatly expanded geriatric training opportunities, including the geriatrics-palliative care pathway, an ASHP-accredited geriatrics residency, and a two-year post-PharmD fellowship. One of her students shared, “Dr. Brandt and the team at the LAMY Center and MedStar helped me apply my knowledge to clinical practice. Dr. Brandt went above and beyond to get to know me, adjusting my schedule based on my learning style and providing constructive feedback to support my professional growth. I truly enjoyed my time with her, participating in numerous activities and learning many new things. I greatly appreciate my rotation, as it significantly boosted my confidence.”