Annual Awards

Dr. Bethany Baker exemplifies excellence in pharmacy practice through her unwavering commitment to leadership, patient-centered care, and professional service. As the Director of Pharmacy Clinical Services at Children's Mercy Hospital, she has significantly impacted patient outcomes by optimizing clinical pharmacy services, such as improving vasoactive titration orders and enhancing transitions of care for medically complex children. Her dedication to education is evident in her roles as a preceptor and adjunct clinical professor, where she shapes the next generation of pharmacy professionals. Dr. Baker's scholarly contributions include multiple peer-reviewed publications and editorial work for ASHP, showcasing her expertise and dedication to advancing pharmacy knowledge.

In addition to her clinical and educational achievements, Dr. Baker has demonstrated exceptional leadership within professional organizations. She has served in various capacities, including Chair of the Local Programming Council for ACHE and President of GKCSHP, playing a pivotal role in the organization's positive direction post-COVID. Her involvement in ASHP and MSHP further highlights her commitment to the profession. Dr. Baker's passion for advancing pharmacy practice, dedication to patient care, and unwavering commitment to mentorship and professional service make her a highly deserving candidate for the Pharmacist of the Year Award. Her impact extends beyond institutional boundaries, influencing pharmacy practice at local, state, and national levels.

Nikki McGuire has been recognized as the Pharmacy Technician of the Year for her outstanding dedication, technical expertise, and commitment to patient care. As the pharmacy buyer at The University of Kansas Health System – Olathe, she plays a vital role in maintaining the efficiency of the pharmacy, ensuring seamless operations and medication availability. Nikki McGuire has been a certified pharmacy technician since 2012 and received her advanced certification in January 2023. She earned her certificates required for advanced certification in controlled substances diversion prevention, hazardous drug management, supply chain and inventory management, and technician product verification. She earned her bachelor’s in Molecular Biosciences from the University of Kansas in 2014. Nikki McGuire joined Olathe Medical Center in July 2023 as the pharmacy buyer. Beyond her primary responsibilities, Nikki consistently steps in to support various technician duties, demonstrating her versatility and leadership. She is known for her keen attention to detail, exceptional problem-solving skills, and ability to manage complex tasks with precision. Her contributions are invaluable, and her colleagues regard her as the backbone of the pharmacy.

Nikki’s impact extends beyond operational excellence—her dedication to patient care and medication safety is exemplary. She actively streamlines workflows to enhance patient safety, ensuring medications are delivered accurately and efficiently. Her proactive approach to managing shortages, including navigating the fluid shortage crisis, showcases her leadership and strategic thinking. Additionally, she takes the initiative to mentor and train new technicians, fostering growth within the profession. Nikki’s unwavering commitment to excellence, teamwork, and professional development makes her a truly deserving recipient of this prestigious award.

Dr. Bayan Alghafli, a PGY2 Cardiology Pharmacy Resident at St. Luke’s Hospital of Kansas City, has been honored with the Pharmacy Resident of the Year award for her exceptional clinical acumen and unwavering commitment to patient care. Early in her residency, Dr. Alghafli demonstrated remarkable decision-making skills during a critical incident involving a patient in cardiogenic shock. She astutely recommended withholding certain medications and engaged in high-level discussions with the care team, earning immediate trust and respect from the Cardiovascular Intensive Care Unit (CVICU) team. Her proactive approach and ability to seek assistance when necessary have significantly contributed to improved patient outcomes.

Beyond her clinical duties, Dr. Alghafli exhibits an insatiable thirst for knowledge, regularly engaging with educational resources such as the “CardioNerds” and “This Week in Cardiology” podcasts. Her dedication extends to her colleagues and patients alike; she has been instrumental in resolving complex medication access issues and has formed strong, trust-based relationships with her ambulatory care patients. Dr. Alghafli’s exceptional time management skills have enabled her to excel in a demanding program, delivering high-quality presentations that have garnered praise from both peers and seasoned cardiologists. Her positive energy, professionalism, and mentorship have made her an invaluable asset to the St. Luke’s healthcare community.

Thomas Maldonado exemplifies the qualities of an outstanding pharmacy student through his leadership, dedication, and commitment to professional growth. As a P3 student at the University of Kansas School of Pharmacy, Thomas has not only excelled academically but has also demonstrated an unwavering passion for advancing the profession. His leadership roles as Chief Ambassador for the KU School of Pharmacy, Treasurer of the National Community Pharmacists Association (NCPA), and GKCSHP Liaison for SSHP showcase his ability to inspire and engage his peers. Through his work, he has fostered collaboration, created new opportunities for student involvement, and strengthened connections between students and professional organizations. Additionally, his role as a Clinical Pharmacy Intern at The University of Kansas Cancer Center has allowed him to contribute meaningfully to patient care, tackle challenging clinical projects, and mentor fellow interns with professionalism and enthusiasm.

Beyond his academic and professional achievements, Thomas embodies the highest standards of integrity, teamwork, and service. His commitment to patient care is evident in his volunteer work at the JayDoc Free Clinic, where he collaborates with healthcare professionals to provide essential medication counseling to underserved populations. Whether leading initiatives, mentoring peers, or managing complex responsibilities with resilience, Thomas consistently upholds excellence in all that he does. His ability to balance rigorous coursework, leadership positions, and clinical responsibilities while maintaining a positive and supportive presence among his colleagues makes him a truly deserving recipient of the Pharmacy Student of the Year Award.