By: Rhonda Beier
Walgreens, one of the top recruiters of University of Maryland School of Pharmacy graduates, has made a donation of $50,000 to the building fund for the School’s Pharmacy Hall Addition, scheduled to open in fall 2010. With $62 million in state funds, construction is underway for the seven-story addition that will provide space for additional students, clinical practice areas and expanded research laboratories. As the premier donor to the building fund, Walgreens’ gift will go towards the $5 million the School needs to raise for construction costs.
Walgreens pharmacy supervisor Chris Wilburn remarked, “As the nation’s largest drugstore chain, we know the importance of supporting pharmacy schools. We recognize the University of Maryland’s commitment to excellence both in the classroom and out in the field, and hope this donation helps continue that legacy.”
Walgreens is the nation’s largest drugstore chain, and has been supporting the University of Maryland School of Pharmacy for more than ten years. Its generous donations have allowed for scholarships, shaped diversity-driven opportunities, improved pharmacy-related activities, and enhanced classroom experiences.
“With top-notch educators and the new resources the Addition will provide, future pharmacists will have the opportunity to learn better ways to research, learn and lead,” asserted Wilburn. “We are pleased to be part of this process and look forward to getting more people interested in the pharmacy profession.”
“Walgreens has been a valued partner to the University of Maryland School of Pharmacy and this year, a record number of our graduates will be going to work for the company,” says Natalie D. Eddington, PhD, dean of the School of Pharmacy. “This gift ensures a continued presence for Walgreens with our students, faculty and alumni and it represents their commitment to building an even stronger relationship for the future. We are grateful for their continued support and we look forward to growing our partnership.”
Walgreens will be permanently recognized with a named breakout area outside the pharmacy practice lab on the third floor of the completed Addition.