Michelle A. Clark, Ph.D., Dean Rochelle Nappi, Ed.D., Assistant Dean, Palm Beach Blanca I. Ortíz, B.S.Ph., Pharm.D., Assistant Dean, Puerto Rico
The College of Pharmacy (COP) Dean's Ambassador Program was founded in 2009 at the Fort Lauderdale/Davie Campus. In 2015, the program expanded to the Palm Beach Regional Campus, and the Puerto Rico Regional Campus. Student ambassadors are selected based on academic achievement, Shark pride, and commitment to excellence. The Program provides opportunities for students to represent the college to alumni, preceptors, university and college stakeholders, professional communities, and the general public.
The Dean's Ambassador Program is committed to developing students' professionally by providing training and mentoring in leadership, networking, presentation and teamwork, as well as business protocol to better prepare them as future role models and leaders in health care. Dean's Ambassadors and alumni mentors explore ideas and implement initiatives to engage alumni and increase their involvement with the college. It's a great time to be a Dean's Ambassador!
CONTACT INFORMATION:Carla Luque, Pharm.D..Assistant Dean, Student Affairs carla@nova.edu, (954) 262-3995
Click on photo or name to display a short biography.
Krisjon Wilkerson, 2019, Palm Beach
Ambassador Krisjon “KJ” Wilkerson obtained a Bachelor of Science degree in Biology from the University of Arkansas and was a member of the Fellowship of Christian Athletes and played baseball for the university. The FCA was involved in providing families with food for Thanksgiving as well as raising money to buy gifts for less fortunate families on Christmas. He was involved in “The Miracle League,” which is an organization that provides the opportunity for individuals that have physical and mental disabilities the opportunity to play baseball. Ambassador Wilkerson is a member of the American Pharmacists Association and the National Community Pharmacist’s Association. As a former student athlete he has learn that teamwork, integrity, strong work ethic and dedication are qualities in a leader and he looks forward to bring these attributes to his role as a representative of the Dean.
Eric Arango, 2021, Fort Lauderdale/Davie
Chelsey Axelrod, 2020, Fort Lauderdale/Davie
Ambassador Chelsey B. Axelrod was born and raised in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. She attended the University of Miami, (UM), where she consistently made the President’s Honor Roll, the Provost’s Honor Roll, and the Dean’s list while also a member of the Psi Chi National Honor Society in Psychology. She graduated the UM Cum Laude and received her Bachelor of Science degree in Psychology and a Biology minor in 2014. While at UM Medical Campus, Ambassador Axelrod became interested in research involving the brain, drugs and behavior, and drug abuse in rats, all which furthered her passion for pharmacology. Ambassador Axelrod also participated in UM’s Psychology Research Initiative Mentorship Experience (PRIME), in which she compiled her research findings into a poster presentation on cognitive and neuropsychiatric symptoms in individuals with memory complaints. As a pharmacy doctor candidate at NSU’s College of Pharmacy, she is also a member of the College of Psychiatric and Neurologic Pharmacists, the Student Society of Health-System Pharmacists, and a brother of the Kappa Psi Pharmaceutical Fraternity. After pharmacy school, she plans to do a residency and eventually obtain a career in Psychiatric or Neurologic pharmacy.
Lauren Blue, 2020, Fort Lauderdale/Davie
Ambassador Lauren Blue earned her Bachelor of Science degree in Psychology from the University of Florida, (UF), in 2016. Through her experience working at Budget Drugs, a privately owned pharmacy, she has gained skills in efficient patient communication and drug information research via databases. During her senior year at UF, Ambassador Blue volunteered at Health Shands Hospital Operating Room’s Satellite Pharmacy where she developed skills on how to perform under pressure as well as skills pertaining to communication with other healthcare professionals, including surgeons and nurses. Ambassador Blue’s many professional interests include research and psychiatric and neurological pharmacy. As a doctor of pharmacy candidate at NSU’s College of Pharmacy, she is currently a member of the College of Psychiatric & Neurological Pharmacists and the Student National Pharmaceutical Association. As a future alumni professional, Ambassador Blue hopes to contribute toward the overall growth of the pharmacy profession.
Kyrsten Chaplin, 2021, Fort Lauderdale/Davie
Kyrsten (Kacy) currently serves as the President of the College of Psychiatric and Neurologic Pharmacists, the Vice President of the Student Society of Health-System Pharmacists, the Treasurer of Phi Lambda Sigma Leadership Honor Society, and is a brother of Kappa Psi Pharmaceutical Fraternity Inc. In the future she aspires to work in the field of Psychiatric Pharmacy to serve those with mental illness. She enjoys giving back to the community and loves that NSU gives her the opportunity to do that during her time as a student.
Yanelys Duarte, 2020, Fort Lauderdale/Davie
Ambassador Yanelys Duarte completed her undergraduate career at Florida International University, (FIU), where she was involved in the Pre-Pharmacy Student Association. Through this association, she was able to further her involvement within the pharmaceutical field while participating in community outreach and engagement. Ambassador Duarte has gleaned many professional skills as a volunteer at Leon Medical Center Pharmacies while shadowing a variety of pharmacists to expand her knowledge in the field. Ambassador Duarte is currently a P1 Liaison for the American Pharmacist Association (APhA) at NSU’s College of Pharmacy. She is also actively involved in the Student Societies of Health-Systems Pharmacy (SSHP). Her accomplishments were recognized as the awardee of the 2017-18 Generation RX Chair Award in the APhA. Upon graduation, Ambassador Duarte plans to pursue a Cardiology residency.
Amneh Fares, 2020, Fort Lauderdale/Davie
Ambassador Amneh Fares was born and raised in South Florida and graduated from the College Academy at Broward College’s dual enrollment program, where she completed her Associate of Arts degree. In 2014, she earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Chemistry from Florida Atlantic University (FAU). After graduating from FAU, she acquired a job as a pharmacy technician at Walmart Pharmacy, attaining knowledge about different types of medications and their uses. She also learned how a pharmacy is organized and run; effective patient care; time management; and how to deal with different social and health care situations. Ambassador Fares was accepted to NSU’s College of Pharmacy and began her pharmaceutical journey in 2016. Currently, Ambassador Fares is a member of the Student College of Clinical Pharmacy (SCCP) acquiring experience in the field of clinical research in the areas of oncology and women’s health. Ambassador Fares is interested in the clinical side of pharmacy, while also very excited to learn about the many fields the pharmaceutical world. She looks forward to gaining additional experience as an intern while also getting involved in community outreach as a student pharmacist.
Akilah Fuller, 2021, Fort Lauderdale/Davie
Melissa Gil, 2021, Fort Lauderdale/Davie
Christian González, 2020, Puerto Rico
Ambassador Christian González was born in Mayagüez, Puerto Rico. He joined the workforce at the early age of nineteen at a fast food restaurant, where he acquired the ability to work under pressure, coexist with coworkers, and hone his customer service focus. Ambassador González was awarded his bachelor of science degree with honors from the University of Puerto Rico in Aguadilla, UPRAG. While there, he was an active member of the Board of Directors of the Childhood Cancer Association, and an active member of the American Chemical Society, (ACS), where he specialized in helping families suffering from cancer and educating them about the disease. During his free time, Ambassador González volunteered to help the ACS organize events on the Puerto Rico Hope Lodge. Ambassador González recently joined the American Pharmacist Association- Academy of Student Pharmacists, the National Community Pharmacists Association, and the Students College of Clinical Pharmacy.
Pablo Lapetina, 2020, Fort Lauderdale/Davie
Ambassador Pablo Lapetina was born in Mar del Plata, Argentina and moved to the United States at the age of eight. He pursued his Bachelor of Science degree in Biology at Florida International University, (FIU). While at FIU, he was Treasurer of the Pre-Pharmacy Student Association where he was active in numerous community outreach events hosted by FIU. Ambassador Lapetina began working at Publix Pharmacy in 2013, making his way to currently performing as a Publix intern. During his first semester at NSU’s College of Pharmacy, Ambassador Lapetina was inducted into Phi Delta Chi professional fraternity, became a member of Student Society of Health-System Pharmacist Association and is currently Vice President of Policy Elect of the American Pharmacist Association. Ambassador Lapetina hopes to complete a PGY2-Critical Care residency upon graduation.
Kiomaris M. Nieves Villanueva, 2020, Puerto Rico
Kiomaris Nieves was born in Arecibo, Puerto Rico. She graduated with a bachelor’s degree in Microbiology from the University of Puerto Rico, (UPR), Arecibo campus. She participated in two summer internships, at Michigan State University and the University of Michigan, where she developed invaluable research skills in the area of neurotoxicology. Ambassador Nieves won the Biomedical Research Conference for Minority Students travel award, the largest professional conference for minority students in the United States to present their research collaborations. After finishing her bachelor’s degree, she was admitted to the post-baccalaureate program at the University of Pennsylvania, where the professional development plan included mentoring, research experience, and pharmacology courses. Ambassador Nieves also has volunteered in different activities aimed at bettering the quality of life for disadvantaged communities.
Camir M. Ortíz Rodríguez , 2020, Puerto Rico
Ambassador Camir María Ortíz Rodríguez was born in Ponce, Puerto Rico. She completed her undergraduate studies at the Pontifical Catholic University of Puerto Rico, where she obtained a bachelor’s degree in General Sciences with a minor degree in Biology. She also belonged to the Students’ Association of the Institutional Honor’s Program, where she had the opportunity to be treasurer and president, the American Chemistry Society, Premedical Circle, and MEDLIFE. Ambassador Ortíz Rodríguez has participated in health fairs, community walks in awareness of different causes, volunteered at centers for children with cancer, elderly people, and has been part of chemistry demonstrations and competitions. Ambassador Ortíz Rodríguez was recognized on the Dean's Honor list for two consecutive years and was honored with the President's Award for her academic excellence. As a member, she represents the profession in the American Pharmacists Association- Academy of Student Pharmacists, the Student College of Clinical Pharmacy, the Student Society of Health-System Pharmacist, and the National Community Pharmacists Association.
Elizabeth Rinaldi, 2021, Fort Lauderdale/Davie
Norymar M. Rivera Ortíz, 2020, Puerto Rico
Ambassador Norymar Rivera is a native of Ponce, Puerto Rico. She was admitted at the Pontifical Catholic University of Puerto Rico, Ponce Campus, PCUPR, as part of the Bachelor/Pharm.D. Dual Program in General Sciences. While at the PCUPR, she received a scholarship for the Honors Program Scholarship, “Farmacias González” Scholarship, and was recognized by the American Chemical Society as a Chemistry Ambassador for her community involvement. As a College of Pharmacy student, Ambassador Rivera is a member of the American Pharmacists Association – Academy of Student Pharmacists, the Student Society of Health-System Pharmacists, and the Student College of Clinical Pharmacy. Recently, Ambassador Rivera Ortíz won the Puerto Rico Pharmacist Association Poster Competition with her poster entitled: “Farmacéutico, educador y proveedor de salud,” which will be the official promotional poster of the Puerto Rico Pharmacist Week for the year 2017.
Carolina N. Rosario, 2020, Puerto Rico
Ambassador Carolina I. Rosario Cruz was born in San Juan, Puerto Rico. She earned a Bachelor’s degree in science with a major in medical microbiology from the University of Puerto Rico, Arecibo Campus (UPRA). She participated in undergraduate research experiences, not only in the laboratory but also in the field. Ambassador Rosario Cruz held membership in various student associations at UPRA, including the Microbiology Students Chapter, the Lions Club Chapter, the Future Pharmacist Association, and Legacy Program Association. These associations allowed her to develop leadership skills through her participate in different activities, such as workshops, conferences, and performing meaningful community work. Ambassador Rosario-Cruz is currently a member of the American Pharmacist Association- Academy of Student Pharmacists, the National Community Pharmacist Association, and the Student College of Clinical Pharmacy.
Terry Smith, 2020, Palm Beach
Ambassador Terry Smith joined the US Army and Florida National Guard in 2000 where he dedicated his time to serving his country as a radar team leader, combat lifesaver, and Air Defense Specialist, receiving the Army Achievement Medal. While performing his National Guard Reservist duties, he completing his undergraduate degree from South University – Savannah in Georgia, in Business Administration. He is a licensed Pharmacy Technician where he became experienced with Enterprise Rx software and Moments MTM. He was on the President’s List for the majority of the semesters at Palm Beach State College and in his first semester at NSU is on the Dean’s List for his academic achievements. Ambassador Smith is a member of the American Pharmacists Association- Academy of Student Pharmacists, (APhA-ASP), the National Community Pharmacists Association (NCPA), American Society of Health-System Pharmacists (SSHP) and served as Palm Beach Treasurer of the Class of 2020 during his P1 year.
Nicole Tadros, 2020, Fort Lauderdale/Davie
Ambassador Nicole Tadros received her Bachelor of Science degree with honors in Biological Sciences from Florida Atlantic University, (FAU). She is currently an active member of NSU’s Student Society of Health-System Pharmacists (SSHP), the American Pharmacists Association – Academy of Student Pharmacists (APhA-ASP), and served as the 2020 Secretary for the Kappa Psi Pharmaceutical Fraternity, Inc. Ambassador Tadros has engaged in various extracurricular and community-focused activities including A Day for Children, Give Kids a Smile, and NSU’s Community Fest. Outside of her pharmacy school, Ambassador Tadros is an avid member of her church where she serves as a Sunday school teacher to middle school children and is on the Youth Committee in charge of hosting community events and statewide conventions. Upon graduation, Ambassador Tadros hopes to complete a post-graduate residency with a focus in academia fulfilling her passion for teaching and molding the minds of future pharmacists.
Luis M. Taveras Grullón, 2020, Puerto Rico
Ambassador Luis Manuel Taveras Grullón was born in Carolina, Puerto Rico. He completed his pre-pharmacy coursework at the University of Puerto Rico, Rio Piedras Campus (UPR-RP), being part of the Dean’s List of the College of Natural Sciences. He was the co-founder of the Future Pharmacists Association, Inc., the first pre-pharmacy student organization in Puerto Rico. Ambassador Taveras Grullón is a member of the Golden Key International Honour Society, the Student College of Clinical Pharmacy, and the National Community Pharmacists Association. Currently, he is the President-Elect of the American Pharmacist Association- Academy of Student Pharmacists, and the Policy Chair of the Student Societies of Health-System Pharmacy. Besides his goal to become a pharmacist, Ambassador Taveras Grullón is also a tenor at the San Juan Philharmonic Chorale, the official choir of the Symphonic Orchestra of Puerto Rico, and was part of the Choir and the Lyric Theater of the UPR.
Amanda Thompson, 2020, Fort Lauderdale/Davie
Ambassador Amanda Thompson was born in Winter Park, Florida and graduated from the University of Central Florida, (UCF), with a double major in Biology and Psychology. Ambassador Thompson has been playing soccer since she was six years old, learning how to be part of a team and how to work hard and “win” at achieving goals. Ambassador Thompson worked at Publix Supermarkets and was promoted from cashier to customer service, to a registered pharmacy technician handling more responsibility as a result of her hard work and dedication. Ambassador Thompson demonstrates her leadership and role model capabilities for her peers and is skilled at mentoring to help others. Ambassador Thompson was accepted into NSU’s College of Pharmacy in 2016. She is currently a member of the College of Psychiatric and Neurologic Pharmacists, (CPNP), and is a member of the Kappa Psi Pharmaceutical Fraternity Inc. Her goal to is to perform as a pharmacist who gets involved and gives back to the community she will serve in the future.
Juan C. Vargas Loyselle , 2020, Puerto Rico
Ambassador Juan C. Vargas Loyselle is a native of Ponce, Puerto Rico. He earned both a bachelor of science degree in biomedical sciences from the University of Puerto Rico, Ponce Campus. He also holds a master’s in public health in Epidemiology from Ponce School of Medicine and Health Sciences. Ambassador Vargas received an Academic Honor Award for his performance in graduate studies and placed first in the Environmental Health research poster presentation. Additionally, he earned a Fellowship whilst working in Infection Control and Alcohol/HIV research at the Veteran’s Affairs Medical Center in Birmingham, Alabama. During his undergraduate studies, Ambassador Vargas was a member of the Biology Honor Society, the American Marketing Association, and the Society of Astronomy. His graduate studies afforded him the opportunity to be part of the Public Health Association and served as the Secretary of Health in Action. Ambassador Vargas worked with DGF Consulting Group teams focused on evaluating and improving institution-wide sanitary practices in a tertiary healthcare hospital in Ponce, Puerto Rico, and a secondary healthcare hospital in Panama City, Panama.
Brianna Wood, 2020, Fort Lauderdale/Davie
Ambassador Brianna Wood attended the University of Tampa, (UT), where she was inducted into the National Honor Society of Phi Eta Sigma and then transferred to the University of Connecticut, (UC), where she received her Bachelor of Science degree in Biology. Ambassador Wood has held numerous leadership positions throughout her college career, including the title of Community Service Director for programs at both the UT and UC. Her community involvement has included tutoring underprivileged children, organizing benefit concerts for individuals undergoing mental health issues, and supervising a community service trip to Mississippi for Hurricane Katrina restoration. Ambassador Wood also worked at the Yale-New Haven Hospital as a pharmacy technician. As an NSU pharmacy doctor candidate, Ambassador Wood currently holds the position of pharmacy intern, where she performs standard technician duties, such as compounding and packaging medication, in addition to working on specialized projects designed to improve the workflow of NSU’s Pharmacy Clinic. She is also an active member of the Student Societies of Health-System Pharmacy Organization and is a part of their community service committee. Upon graduation, Ambassador Wood aspires to complete a general residency along with a specialized residency in transplant pharmacy.
Raquib Zaman, 2021, Fort Lauderdale/Davie