On the evening of May 12, 2025, members of the UBC Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences community came together at the Robert H. Lee Alumni Centre for A Celebration of UBC Pharm Sci Alumni & Partners—an inspiring event that recognized the profound impact of alumni and partners in shaping the future of pharmacy and pharmaceutical sciences in British Columbia and beyond.
Presented by Pfizer and hosted by Master of Ceremonies Dr. Marion Pearson, Associate Dean, Students and Professor of Teaching, the event brought together over 150 alumni, faculty members, students, and industry representatives for a program of reflection, connection, and celebration.
The evening opened with welcoming remarks from Dr. Lalitha Raman-Wilms, Dean of the Faculty, who shared the Faculty’s renewed strategic vision and priorities. These include investments in cutting-edge research, a deep commitment to transformative teaching, and a strong focus on health equity and community engagement.
“Our alumni and partners are the foundation of everything we do,” says Dean Raman-Wilms. “Their leadership, innovation, and generosity continue to shape the health of our communities. Tonight, we honour not only their past contributions—but the incredible future we are building together.”
A highlight of the evening was the presentation of three prestigious alumni awards recognizing outstanding professional achievement, leadership, and service to the profession.
Alumni Agent of Change Award
Dr. Susan Bouma, BSc(Pharm)’93
With a career spanning community, hospital, and government settings, Dr. Susan Bouma is a force in provincial health leadership. As Executive Director of the Clinical Services and Evaluation Branch at the BC Ministry of Health, she leads five major units focused on pharmaceutical care and policy. Passionate about enhancing the pharmacist's role within the healthcare system, Dr. Bouma’s work has had a lasting impact on health service delivery across the province.
Alumni Future Agent of Change Award
Dr. Jiamin Wu, PhD’24
A recent doctoral graduate whose research into needle-free biologics has gained global attention, Dr. Jiamin Wu exemplifies innovation in pharmaceutical sciences. With 17 peer-reviewed publications and multiple patents to his name, Dr. Wu’s commitment to translational research is reshaping drug delivery science. His entrepreneurial drive and industry engagement make him a rising leader in the field.
Alumni Builder Award
Kirby Smith, MSc’17
Kirby Smith brings an exceptional blend of pharmacy practice and policy expertise to his current role as Director Access, Private Markets at Pfizer Canada. Known for his integrity, collaborative approach, and unwavering focus on improving access to medicines, Kirby’s leadership in health economics and stakeholder engagement reflects the Faculty’s mission to advance healthier communities.
The evening was a celebration not only of individual excellence but of the collective power of the UBC Pharm Sci community to lead transformative change—locally and globally.
Visit pharmsci.ubc.ca/alumni to learn more about the Faculty’s alumni awards and upcoming alumni events.