Meet the Preceptors
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Dr. Alison P. Duffy, PharmD, BCOP, FNAPProfessor of Practice, Sciences, and Health Outcomes Research
University of Maryland Greenebaum Comprehensive Cancer Center
PGY1: University of Cincinnati Health
Teaching Philosophy I believe the most effective learning occurs when trainees feel supported, challenged, and empowered to grow. My teaching philosophy centers on creating a psychologically safe and inclusive learning environment where learners can build confidence, embrace the learning curve, and develop their professional identity. I am passionate about fostering learner confidence and reducing barriers related to self-doubt, allowing trainees to approach challenges with clarity, curiosity, and a growth mindset. Oncology pharmacy is a rewarding but intellectually and emotionally demanding profession. I strive to mentor learners not only in developing clinical expertise, but also in cultivating the resilience, self-awareness, and confidence needed to thrive as oncology pharmacy professionals. I enjoy mentoring pharmacy students, PGY1 and PGY2 residents, and early-career oncology pharmacists through a transparent, approachable, and humanistic teaching style. My teaching approach incorporates clinical reasoning strategies such as “thinking out loud” and concept mapping to help learners develop structured approaches to complex clinical problems while appreciating diverse perspectives and alternative approaches to problem-solving. I am honored to have been recognized for my commitment to mentorship and precepting and remain dedicated to developing compassionate, confident, and capable oncology pharmacists. Outside of Work Family time, music/dance, animals, travel, outdoors, water parks, pastries |
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Dr. Gionna Knauss, PharmDPGY2 Oncology Pharmacy Residency Program Coordinator, University of Maryland School of Pharmacy
Teaching Philosophy No two learners are alike and catering your teaching style to your learner will help them feel comfortable enough to learn and thrive in the environment you’ve given them. I strive to put an emphasis on independent practice and critical thinking so that my learners are comfortable with autonomy and clinical decision making in the “grey” world of TCT and even oncology as a whole. Outside of Work
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Jennifer Nishioka, PharmD, BCOPClinical Pharmacy Manager, Oncology Services
Teaching Philosophy Create a highly engaged environment that cultivates critical thinking and problem-solving. Outside of work Spending time with my son and my rescue pittie, being outdoors (especially on the water) |
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Nina Kottakuzhiyil, PharmD, MBA/MHAOncology Pharmacy Operations Manager
Teaching Philosophy I believe people learn best when they feel comfortable, supported, and having fun. Learning should be engaging, even when covering the most complex or challenging topics. Outside of Work Indian dancing, fitness, and travelling |
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Justin Lawson, PharmD, BCOPOncology Clinical Pharmacy Specialist – Genitourinary and Thoracic Oncology Outpatient Clinic
Teaching Philosophy Every learner has a unique strategy for internalizing information. Half the job of a preceptor is to hone that strategy to encourage of career of self-directed learning. Outside of work Board games and family! |
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Sheetal Patil, PharmD, BCOPOncology Clinical Pharmacy Specialist - Breast and Gynecology Outpatient Clinic
Teaching Philosophy “Take full advantage of learning time and experiences” Outside of Work Various physical activities such as hiking, exercising, gardening, dancing, and traveling |
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Alexandra Simms, MS, PharmD, BCOPOncology Clinical Pharmacy Specialist - Inpatient Medical Oncology
Teaching Philosophy I want my learners to feel that they learn something new each day. Outside of Work Watching musicals and playing with my puppy |
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Abigail (Abby) Thomas, PharmD, BCPMPPain Management and Palliative Care Clinical Pharmacy Specialist
Teaching Philosophy Outside of Work
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Allison Yang, PharmDClinical Oncology Pharmacist – Leukemia
Teaching Philosophy I want my learners to feel supported both professionally and personally. Outside of Work Reading, exploring new restaurants, traveling |
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Aarti Zaver, PharmD, BCOPOncology Clinical Pharmacy Specialist - Inpatient Hematology & Leukemia Clinic
Teaching philosophy As a preceptor, I place emphasis on critical thinking, clinical reasoning, and evidence-based decision making. I strive to adjust my teaching style to fit each individual learner and aim to prepare residents to confidently & independently manage complex clinical cases. Outside of work I love trying new cafes and ice cream in Baltimore, going to city events (Mt Vernon Flower Mart is one of my favorites), listening to audiobooks, and travelling to see my friends and family |
