From Dean Blouin:
Good afternoon,
I am pleased to announce that Stephen Eckel, Pharm.D., M.H.A., has been appointed associate dean for global engagement of the UNC Eshelman School of Pharmacy effective February 1, 2016, replacing Dhiren Thakker, Ph.D., who has served in this role for the past eight years. Eckel will be responsible for identifying and pursuing strategic partnerships to expand the research, education and practice mission of the School globally.
Stephen joined the School in 2013 as a clinical associate professor in the Division of Practice Advancement and Clinical Education and has served as the vice chair of graduate and postgraduate education since his appointment.
Before joining the School, Stephen worked for 15 years with the UNC Hospitals Department of Pharmacy. He was instrumental in developing the Partnership in Patient Care initiative, which aimed to build a relationship between the School and the UNC Hospitals Department of Pharmacy around the delivery of patient care, teaching and research.
I would like to take this opportunity to thank Dhiren for his 20 years of dedicated service, his countless contributions to the School and for providing Stephen with the opportunity to work side-by-side over the next six months.
During the past two decades, Dhiren created and led many high stakes initiatives, including the Office of Research and Graduate Education and the Office of Entrepreneurial Development and Global Engagement.
Through Dhiren’s vision, innovation and leadership, the UNC Eshelman School of Pharmacy has broadened its thinking about who we are and what we can become.
I wish Dr. Stephen Eckel every success in assuming his new responsibilities.
Sincerely,
Dean Blouin