Getting to know the new dean. On Sept. 1, Dr. Neal Davies begins his term as dean of the Faculty of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences. We asked him 10 questions to get to know him better. Davies returns to his alma mater 25 years after graduating (Class of '91) and is the 8th dean in the history of the faculty.
What excites you the most about returning to your alma mater as dean of the Faculty of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences?
As dean, I am excited to work with students, faculty and staff and alumni. I am brimming with anticipation and commitment to further building this great faculty. Students are our greatest natural resource and our commitment to them is an investment in the future. There is a real enthusiasm and excitement I can sense in the faculty to our teaching and research. I want to further tap into that dedication to facilitate achievements and success nationally and be internationally recognized. We can lead the way in a variety of areas of pharmacy and pharmaceutical sciences and I look forward to further optimize the faculty and increase our visibility. The trifecta of research, teaching and practice is the intermodal vision I espouse.
What is one thing that most people don't know about you?
There are many things people don't know about me. I look forward to getting to know others better over the years as dean and for people to get to know me as well.
What is your favourite memory as a University of Alberta pharmacy student?
I have so many fantastic memories as a pharmacy student. I made many lasting friendships and I look forward to catching up with my classmates again. We were a very social class and my best memories are the many evenings at Avenue Pizza which is now a pub. A close second is playing hockey, volleyball and curling with fellow students.
Were you a study all year student or cram near the end of the semester?
I was a study everyday student. I had a frequent flier pass to the Medical Sciences Library. I took my studies very seriously. I never missed a class. I still have all my notes and exam binders and textbooks from my studies.
What is your vision for the faculty?
The Faculty of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences vision is clear. We need to maintain leadership in pharmacy education and research through innovation. We prepare student pharmacists for careers in pharmacy. We prepare pharmaceutical students for careers in education, research and the pharmaceutical industry. At the University, we build the professional attributes and knowledge to succeed. We will build from our current and historical strengths and enhance the profession with a PharmD program.
What will you bring to the University of Alberta that you've learned elsewhere (Washington State, Manitoba, Australia)?I have an open mind. I have lived in a variety of cultures and provinces which has given me an insight into various ways and means of doing things. I think my experience has deepened my understanding of pharmacy and pharmaceutical sciences. I do think I have a unique vantage point to understand and approach the job at the University of Alberta. I don't see the point in leading a faculty if you're not attempting to manage it through optimizing change. Leadership is about change for the better and for a purpose.
What keeps you busy when you're not working?
I have three daughters that are active in swimming, piano and other activities. Family life keeps me busy and grounded and fulfilled. I am an avid reader and always have at least one book on the go sometimes for education and sometimes just for escape. I am also looking forward to seeing the Oilers and Eskimos as well as the Bears and Pandas in action!
What is the one thing you want students, faculty and alumni to know about you?
I think a profession works best when people are comfortable exchanging ideas. I want students, faculty and alumni to know that I value their opinions and ideas. Everyone can't get their way but everyone can have a say.
Who has been a role model for you in your career?
Nobody does it alone. I have had many role models and opportunities that shaped my career. I wouldn't be where I am without my parents' tutelage. I grew up in an academic family where being a dean at a university was just part of the family business. Dr. Fakhreddin Jamali (Professor, Faculty of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Alberta) gave me the opportunity to do a PhD with him and those experiences shaped me early in my training. I had some great models in Australia - Dr. Ken Brown's administrative style and rapport with staff, students and faculty is something I have tried to emulate. I have been blessed to have some great collaborators (too many to name here) but my success has often been a product of team successes and working synergistically with others.
In your experience, what is the one skill that every pharmacy student should graduate with?
You need to have the knowledge base and critical thinking skills in place but translating that to patients or other health professionals or administrators is important. Effective communication skills (speaking, writing) are the key to professional success.