As in past years, this year’s leading event was a huge success! Two hundred attendees gathered during this jam packed day to network, exchange information, earn continuing education credits and see the latest on pharmaceutical products and technology.

This once-a-year opportunity brings NJSHP members together to garner the most recent information on cutting-edge pharmacy issues. The meeting opened with students having some learning fun by competing in the College Bowl. This “jeopardy style” format never disappoints. Congratulations to the winning team from the Ernest Mario School of Pharmacy. Directors had the occasion to hear Edward Krenzelok, Pharm.D. from the The Pittsburgh Poison Center present about the most likely biological and chemical agents that may be involved in terrorist events.

Introduced last year, a series of 15-minute presentations were on the slate so that attendees could earn 1 CE
credit and learn new information in these diverse areas. As an example, significant papers in pharmacotherapy covered several areas:

• lipid lowering with statins after acute coronary syndromes

• SSRI’s in childhood depression

• antifungal therapy for invasive aspergillosis

• palifermine for orgal mucositis after intensive therapy for hematologic cancers

• comparison of albumin and saline for fluid resuscitation in the ICU

• and prevention of contrast-induced nephropathy with sodium bicarbonate.

The exhibitor forum is always a big hit where pharmacists and students can casually chat with pharmaceutical representatives and catch the latest happenings. NJSHP thanks this year’s exhibitors for their consistent support throughout the years of this valuable meeting. In another important segment to this Annual Meeting, sixteen participants contributed to the Poster Session for three winning spots.
See the separate legend for winners and poster titles.

After attendees had time to relax and network at the cocktail reception, Rob Adamson kicked off the Installation Dinner in which state and regional chapter officers were installed. Keynote Speaker Marvin Shepherd, Ph.D. gave a thought provoking session entitled “The Truth and Consequences of Drug Importation.” Four major awards were given to three exceptional pharmacy professionals and one student. Don’t miss the separate write-up about the contributions of your peers!

The Annual Meeting is the flagship event for NJSHP that requires intense planning throughout the year. Thanks to the hard work of Stella Williams and all the Board Members who selflessly gave of their time to make this an event to remember!

Mark the date for the 2006 Annual Meeting – Wednesday, March 29.
 
 
Up Close and Personal continued from the index
NJSHP has been shining point in my career, not because of my accomplishments, but because of the many people that helped and influenced me. I have served NJSHP as President-Elect, 2005 – Present; Board Director of Organizational Affairs, 2002 – Present; 2001-2002 North Chapter President; and 2000-2001 North Chapter President- Elect.

To stand in the company with some of the most inspiring, brilliant, and influential members of our profession is truly a rewarding experience. Carlo Lupano, Paul Malacrida, and George Piltz were each a driving force for me to get involved with the Society in 2000. This group’s conviction and belief in pharmacy practice set the stage for my loyalty and commitment to NJSHP. From there I met some incredible pharmacy leaders like Chuck Aaronson, Russ Lazzaro, and Joe Walker. Each of these gentlemen has served as role models for their examples of leadership and dedication to pharmacy practice. Words simply are not enough about Eric Hola, Pam Allen, Drew Misuro, and Rob Adamson.
 
Their intelligence, values, ethics, and enthusiasm towards their work and the profession of pharmacy set the gold standard of pharmacy practice that all professionals should aspire to meet. There are countless other NJSHP members I would like to mention and thank. I think NJSHP for me has been about the culture of sharing, respect, and mentoring that all of its members exemplify. I am honored to be among the best pharmacy professionals and practitioners.

I find that the pharmacy profession is becoming more utilized and recognized with contributions to decisions that extend beyond just drug information. Studies have proven processes and patient outcomes are improved when a pharmacy practitioner participates with the organization or process. The future of the pharmacy profession hinges on our many associations’ and members’ abilities to advertise, promote, and publicize their worth and value to all aspects of medical care. The pharmacy profession must insure that all medical practitioners and legislative bodies are informed and reminded of the importance of the pharmacy practitioners’ role and contribution to healthcare.

I’ve found in my career that the difference between mediocrity and accomplishment is enthusiasm. This hard work and enthusiasm translates to better care and outcomes for your patient. Pharmacy professionals need to share information,
 
ideas, and work to promote patient care and the profession of pharmacy. Working together insures the best ideas and solutions are delivered to our patients and benefit our profession.

While I’ve been fortunate to work in a career I love, I’ve been as fortunate in my personal life. I am married to Diane, a Cardiac/Telemetry Special Procedures Nurse at Valley Hospital in Ridgewood. I proposed to my wife in Van Saun Park in Bergen County while down on one knee (complete with a rose and lighted candle on top of a small table with a lace doily) under a weeping willow tree. People passing by thought we were doing a commercial, because we were formally dressed for an upcoming dinner.

My three children (two boys and a girl) ages 13,10, and 7 keep me very busy. I’ve coached every sports team they’ve been on (soccer, baseball, lacrosse) and look forward to many more years of being called “Coach Mitch.” I am also actively involved with the Boy Scouts of America as an Assistant Scoutmaster. As a family we enjoy baseball, vacations, camping and bowling.


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