Representing the graduate student body of the School of Pharmacy
The Pharmacy Graduate Association (PhGA) is a non-profit organization led by graduate student volunteers. Founded in Spring 2011, in collaboration with the School of Pharmacy, its primary goal is to represent the graduate students at the School of Pharmacy—a satellite campus—at University of Waterloo meetings, events, and other university-related activities, both on and off-campus.
Pharmacy graduate students are engaged in a wide range of multidisciplinary clinical and basic science research at both the MSc and PhD levels. The PhGA represents all graduate students affiliated with the School of Pharmacy and aims to create memorable and enjoyable experiences for them.
Clubs and services
PharmClub
PharmClub is a separate entity that collaborates with the PhGA to host meetings where graduate students and postdoctoral fellows can present seminars on their research or related topics. These gatherings are informal and friendly, providing presenters with the opportunity to enhance their scientific presentation skills.
PharmClub provides students the opportunity to practice their thesis proposal or defense presentations and receive constructive feedback from those who have successfully navigated these important milestones.
Grad lounge
Located in the heart of the student research and office areas, the Graduate Student Lounge can be found in PHR 4016.
The lounge was established in 2011 with support from the department, the GSA, and a $4,000 grant from the Graduate Student Endowment Fund (GSEF). This funding helped create a comfortable and inviting space with furnishings from Leon's and IKEA. As a central hub for graduate students, the grad lounge is a well-used and recognized landmark within the School of Pharmacy.
Get ready to supercharge your week with Focus & Fuel sessions! These weekly gatherings are designed specifically for graduate students like you, offering a laid-back, student-led environment to connect, concentrate, and grow.
What to Expect
Each Tuesday in PHR-2009, you can drop in for a blend of productivity and community. Here's what your morning could look like:
- 9:00 – 9:15 a.m. | Coffee + Social Catch-Up: Start your day right with a warm drink and a chance to chat with fellow grad students.
- 9:15 – 10:00 a.m. | Silent Co-Working: Dive into your independent work – whether it's writing, reading, or research – in a quiet, supportive atmosphere. Once a month, Dr. Annemarie Dedek will even host this segment!
- 10:00 – 10:30 a.m. | Journal Article / Book Club / Fireside Chat: A casual discussion led by Ph.D. candidate Sam Hirniak (or other PhGA members), featuring readings, or informal chats with professionals in the pharmaceutical sciences.
Upcoming Highlights
Mark your calendars for these special events:
- July 15th: A Fireside Chat with Dr. Wajd Alkabbani – an incredible opportunity for an informal discussion.
- July 22nd: A casual workshop on "Professional Communications and Note Taking" led by the insightful Julia Lumini.
Focus & Fuel sessions are all about fostering academic growth and community in a flexible, drop-in format, with light structure and faculty support. We can't wait to see you there!
Constitution
The constitution outlines the general procedures that govern the PhGA, including its responsibilities, goals, and governance structure. It is subject to full or partial review when the presiding council or a majority of students deem it necessary. Newly elected council members are also required to review the constitution shortly after their appointment.
Any questions, comments, or concerns regarding the constitution should be directed to the presiding VP of Student Affairs.
PhGA executive council leadership 2025-2026
| Position | Role | Student representative |
|---|---|---|
|
President |
|
William Le Boeuf |
| Co-Vice Presidents, Finance |
|
Lexi Bastone & Emma Bondar |
| Vice President, Communications |
|
Katherine Chen |
| Vice President, Operations |
|
Jennifer Park |
| Vice President, Student Affairs |
|
Thaddeus Harrison Gugu |
