Holly Meginnis wins OPA Student of Distinction Award

Fourth-year Pharmacy student Holly Meginnis has been recognized with the Ontario Pharmacists Association (OPA) Student of Distinction Award for leadership and commitment to advancing the profession.

The University of Waterloo’s School of Pharmacy, in the Faculty of Science, prides itself on developing and supporting pharmacy student leaders. This is the fourth consecutive year that a Waterloo student has received the Student of Distinction Award. Sarah Johnson (Rx2014) won the Student of Distinction Award last year.

“Holly has worked tirelessly on behalf of students at the School of Pharmacy as well as pharmacy students across the country though her work with the Canadian Association of Pharmacy Students and Interns (CAPSI). The future of pharmacy in Canada is in good hands with leaders like Holly entering the profession,” said Prof. David Edwards, Hallman Director, School of Pharmacy and Associate Dean, Faculty of Science.

During her time at the School of Pharmacy, Meginnis has shown outstanding devotion to committees and causes within and beyond the walls of the Kitchener campus.

Meginnis is the current Class Representative for her year, Rx2015, the UWaterloo CAPSI Senior Representative, and an active member of the Graduation Committee. She has also volunteered her time to special events with Canadian Society of Hospital Pharmacists and Community Action Now, an organization that runs community service projects supporting health and well-being.

Through my involvement, I was able to learn about pharmacy from different perspectives. I learned about pharmacy across Canada, and the highlights as well as the challenges that exist within the profession. The initiatives I have been a part of have helped me develop even more of an appreciation for the profession of pharmacy,” said Meginnis.

Looking ahead to her next steps after graduation, Meginnis already is already envisioning how she can make a positive impact as a hospital pharmacist. Working in hospital settings will allow her to support patients when care is critical and they are most vulnerable. Ever the forward-thinker, Meginnis is hoping to introduce new best practices that enhance continuity of care for patients as they move from hospital to home.

“Often, the transition from hospital to home can be challenging for patients. By making sure patients' medications transition from hospital to home will help to keep patients safe,” said Meginnis. 

Congratulations Holly and good luck in your future endeavours!