Preceptor of the Year awardees honored at the 2026 Hooding Ceremony
The Ohio State University College of Pharmacy recognized its Preceptor of the Year awardees at the Doctor of Pharmacy Convocation and Hooding Ceremony on May 9 at the Mershon Auditorium.
Assistant Dean of Experiential Education Julie Legg, PharmD, FNAP, presented the awards to recipients in attendance. Preceptors were honored for their outstanding contributions to the educational development of future pharmacists, as well as their mentorship and commitment to teaching.
The awardees include:
Olivia Dunning, PharmD '23 – Walgreens Pharmacy
Dr. Olivia Dunning is a 2023 graduate of the College of Pharmacy and pharmacy manager at Walgreens in Columbus. Students consistently describe her rotation as welcoming, supportive, and deeply enriching. Her ability to foster open dialogue, encourage curiosity, and prioritize learning creates an environment where students feel valued and empowered.
A student shared:
“She truly goes above and beyond to ensure her students succeed… She made me feel like a true colleague rather than just a student.”
Dr. Dunning’s passion and professionalism make her a model preceptor whose influence extends far beyond the rotation.
Bryce Lifer, PharmD – Fairfield Medical Center
Dr. Bryce Lifer, a critical care pharmacist at Fairfield Medical Center in Lancaster, is a previous Preceptor of the Year honoree (2017) and continues to be nominated annually. He precepts approximately ten APPE students each year, many of whom describe his rotation as the most impactful of their pharmacy education.
A student wrote:
“As a pharmacy student, no other preceptor improved my confidence as much as Dr. Lifer. I felt seen, heard, valued, and motivated… He instills values that every great pharmacist emulates—humility, curiosity, and respect for colleagues.”
Dr. Lifer’s unwavering commitment to student learning continues to shape the next generation of pharmacists.
Andrew Stone, PharmD, BCPS – The Ohio State University James Cancer Hospital
Dr. Andrew Stone is a board‑certified pharmacotherapy specialist in inpatient oncology and a residency program director at the OSU James Cancer Hospital. Students consistently describe his rotation as one of the most educational and transformative experiences of their training. He takes time to understand each student’s goals and structures the rotation to ensure meaningful progress.
A student reflected:
“He allowed room to be uncomfortable but was always right there for support when needed… I hope to carry forward aspects of the teaching style I witnessed from Dr. Stone.”
Dr. Stone’s dedication to teaching and student development sets a high standard for experiential education.
Gretchen Skeans, PharmD '22 – Kroger Pharmacy
Dr. Gretchen Skeans is a 2022 graduate of the College of Pharmacy and pharmacy manager at Kroger Pharmacy in Columbus. Students praise her ability to balance support with independence, encouraging them to think critically and trust their clinical judgment. Her timely feedback and genuine investment in student success create a rotation experience that is both challenging and inspiring.
A student wrote:
“She inspired me with the ‘why.’ Her passion for community health and her commitment to the next generation of pharmacists makes her the ideal candidate for Preceptor of the Year.”
Beyond the student experiences, Dr. Skeans often feels like an extension of the experiential team. She is always willing to step up for students needing additional support or last-minute placements.
(Not Pictured) John Roby, PharmD, AAHIVP – Equitas Health Pharmacy
Dr. John Roby is a pharmacy manager at Equitas Health Pharmacy in Columbus. Students describe him as patient, professional, and deeply committed to their growth. He models compassionate communication and creates a learning environment where students feel respected and supported.
One student shared:
“He consistently encouraged me to take initiative, think critically, and trust my clinical judgment… His mentorship had a lasting impact on my growth.”
Dr. Roby’s steady guidance and thoughtful teaching style make his rotation meaningful and memorable.