Pharmacy Residency
2024-2025 Residency class (left to right): Vivian Ho (PGY1 Pharmacy), Cheyanna Petty (PGY1 Pharmacy), Kimmy Scott (PGY2 Pediatric) and Tolu Efunkoya (PGY2 Pediatric Oncology Pathway)
Please join us for a virtual open house to learn more about our residency programs!
Wednesday, Dec. 18 from 2-4 p.m. (CT)
After registering, you will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining the meeting. Thank you.
Cook Children's ASHP-accredited pharmacy residency training is divided into two post-graduate years, with two PGY1 and two PGY2 positions available. Each year-long program introduces residents to multiple aspects of pediatric medicine, diverse patient populations, and leading-edge health care technology. Cook Children's is a 443-bed hospital that provides a wide variety of learning opportunities in various areas, including a level II trauma center, level IV NICU, level I PICU, and stem cell transplant unit.
The goal of the programs is to produce well-rounded pediatric pharmacy practitioners with solid foundations built on the theoretical and practical application of clinical pharmacy skills. To accomplish this, residents staff in both clinical and operational roles and work with preceptors and staff who are residency trained and board certified. Cook Children's pharmacists currently account for 20% of pediatric board certified pharmacists in the state of Texas.
Residency preceptors are invested in the growth of residents and helping them develop the tools that they need to succeed. To ensure research projects success, residents receive project mentorship from topic experts and research coordinators as well as dedicated project time throughout the year. Our program hosts biannual quality improvement retreats to review the strengths and weaknesses of our program with preceptors and current residents. Recognizing the rigors of residency training, the program provides a dedicated resident wellness program with structured and unstructured support to promote well-being, balance, and resilience.
Cook Children's is affiliated with University of Texas, University of North Texas, and Texas Tech Schools of Pharmacy and provides the opportunity to complete a teaching and leadership program, participate in pharmacy school curriculum and dedicate time to precepting.
PGY1 Pharmacy Residency
The Cook Children's post-graduate year one residency program offers residents an opportunity to develop clinical pharmacy practice skills in a challenging and progressive environment.
Purpose
PGY1 residency programs build upon Doctor of Pharmacy (PharmD) education and outcomes to develop pharmacist practitioners with knowledge, skills, and abilities as defined in the educational competency areas, goals, and objectives. Residents who successfully complete PGY1 residency programs will be skilled in diverse patient care, practice management, leadership, and education, and be prepared to provide patient care, seek board certification in pharmacotherapy (i.e., BCPS), and pursue advanced education and training opportunities including postgraduate year two (PGY2) residencies.
Mission
Since 2008, the ASHP-accredited post-graduate year 1 (PGY1) residency program at Cook Children's has and continues to offer a unique, well-rounded learning experience to a diverse group of first year residents. The PGY1 residency provides a rigorous curriculum, flexible rotations, and a progressive learning environment supported by experienced preceptors. At the completion of the PGY1 year, the resident will have a solid foundation of pediatric clinical knowledge, confidence to function as an independent healthcare provider, and the ability to be a meaningful contributor of pharmaceutical care to a multidisciplinary team.
REQUIRED Learning Experiences |
Duration |
Orientation |
Six weeks |
General Pediatrics |
Six weeks |
Pediatric Intensive Care |
Six weeks |
Neonatal Intensive Care |
Six weeks |
Pharmacy Administration |
Four weeks |
Medication Safety |
Four weeks |
Precepting/Teaching† |
Six weeks |
Medication Use Evaluation |
Longitudinal – 7 mos. |
Research Project |
Longitudinal – 12 mos.‡ |
Presentations |
Longitudinal – 12 mos. |
Staffing (operational & clinical) |
Longitudinal – 11 mos. (begin Aug) |
Ambulatory (choose one) Pulmonary Infectious Disease |
Longitudinal – 6 mos. (begin Jan) |
ELECTIVES (choose three) |
4-6 weeks |
Advanced required rotation† |
Neurology |
Cardiology |
Nutrition Support |
Emergency Medicine |
Pain Management† |
Hematology/Oncology |
Pharmacy Informatics |
Infectious Diseases† |
Pulmonology |
Investigational Drug Services |
Stem Cell Transplant |
Other elective learning experiences may be developed based on resident interest and preceptor availability |
#Rotation lengths and elective offerings can be individualized with the RPD during Resident Development Plans.
†Advanced experiences and/or experiences designed with less direct pharmacy preceptor presence. These require residents to demonstrate adequate independence, progression, and/or resolution of any prior disciplinary actions before starting.
‡Residents will have ~3 scheduled project weeks in December between Midyear and New Year’s Day. Additionally, residents are given a bank of 5 project days that they may use throughout the year and under the following conditions: 1) the project day(s) are approved in advance by the rotation preceptor, 2) the resident does not miss more than 20% of the rotation per Leave and Attendance Expectations, and 3) the resident is making satisfactory progress on recent and current experiences.
- Begin the residency program in mid-June
- Obtain Texas Pharmacy licensure by August 1
- Meet staffing commitments
- Finish a residency research project and manuscript in publishable form. Residents will be required to present their research with a poster at ASHP midyear clinical meeting and a platform presentation at PPA annual meeting.
- In addition to rotations, the residents will be expected to complete various projects including, but not limited to:
- A medication use evaluation
- A pharmacy and therapeutic committee drug monograph
- Quality and performance improvement projects
- Adverse drug reactions evaluations
- Safety siren updates for the medication safety group
- Community service projects
- Additional information:
- All residents receive travel allowances for ASHP midyear clinical meeting and PPA annual meeting (or an appropriate specialty focused conference for PGY2 specialty tracks).
- All residents have the opportunity to be a camp counselor at select Cook Children's patient summer camps.
PGY2 Pharmacy Residency
The Cook Children's post-graduate year two residency program helps residents transition from a general practice to a more specialized practice focusing on pediatric patients.
Purpose
PGY2 residency programs build upon Doctor of Pharmacy (PharmD) education and PGY1 pharmacy residency training to develop pharmacist practitioners with knowledge, skills, and abilities as defined in the educational competency areas, goals, and objectives for advanced practice areas. Residents who successfully complete PGY2 residency programs are prepared for advanced patient care or other specialized positions, and board certification in the advanced practice area, if available.
Mission
The ASHP-accredited, post-graduate year 2 (PGY2) residency program at Cook Children's is a rigorous program focused on expanding each resident's clinical pediatric expertise, adaptability, independence, and clinical leadership skills. The PGY2 program at Cook Children's is especially unique in that our program offers the ASHP Recognized Specialty Pathway in Oncology. Residents may also tailor the PGY2 Pediatrics elective experiences to focus in areas such as General Pediatrics and Critical Care. Each program option is designed to transition residents from generalist to specialist practitioners within these disciplines and provides mentorship from experts in these areas. At the completion of the PGY2 year, residents will have advanced pediatric clinical knowledge, skills to establish and expand pediatric clinical pharmacy services, and the ability to provide clinical leadership to a multidisciplinary specialty team.
PGY2 Pediatric Specialty Pathways
Candidates may apply for either the Cook Children's PGY2 Pediatric Pharmacy Pathway or the PGY2 Pediatric Oncology Specialty Pathway. Each Pathway of the PGY2 program allows residents the flexibility to tailor their PGY2 Pediatric training based on PGY1 experience and career goals:
REQUIRED Learning Experiences |
Duration |
Orientation |
Internal - 2 weeks (min.) External- 4 weeks (min.) |
Nutrition Support+ |
Internal – 2-4 weeks External- 4 weeks |
Acute Care Selective 1 & 2 (choose two): AC-H: Hospitalist Service [required for external] AC 1: Endocrine / Rheumatology AC 2: Pulmonology / ID AC 3: Gastroenterology / Nephrology AC 4: Neurology |
4 weeks each |
Pediatric Intensive Care |
6-8 weeks |
Neonatal Intensive Care |
6-8 weeks |
Precepting/Teaching† |
4-6 weeks |
Practice Management |
Longitudinal – 12 mos. |
Medication Use Evaluation |
Longitudinal – 7 mos. |
Research Project |
Longitudinal – 12 mos.‡ |
Presentations |
Longitudinal – 12 mos. |
Staffing |
Longitudinal – 11 mos. (begin Aug) |
Ambulatory (choose one) Pulmonary Infectious Diseases |
Longitudinal – 6 mos. |
ELECTIVES (choose three) |
4-6 weeks |
Advanced required rotation† |
Medication Safety |
Academia† |
Neurology |
Academic Administration† |
Pain Management† |
Cardiology* |
Palliative Care† |
Emergency Medicine* |
Pharmacy Informatics |
Hematology/Oncology |
Psychiatry |
Infectious Diseases† |
Pulmonology |
Investigational Drug Services |
Stem Cell Transplant |
Other elective learning experiences may be developed based on resident interest and preceptor availability |
#Rotation lengths and elective offerings can be individualized with the RPD/Coordinator during Resident Development Plans.
+Nutrition Support is required in preparation for PGY2 Staffing. This may be completed during PGY1 for internal PGY1s, or will occur following Orientation.
†Advanced experiences and/or experiences designed with less direct pharmacy preceptor presence. These require residents to demonstrate adequate independence, progression, and/or resolution of any prior disciplinary actions before starting.
*Required for Critical Care emphasis
‡Residents will have ~3 scheduled project weeks in December between Midyear and New Year’s Day. Additionally, residents are given a bank of 5 project days that they may use throughout the year and under the following conditions: 1) the project day(s) are approved in advance by the rotation preceptor, 2) the resident does not miss more than 20% of the rotation per Leave and Attendance Expectations, and 3) the resident is making satisfactory progress on recent and current experiences.
REQUIRED Learning Experiences |
Duration |
Orientation |
Internal - 2 weeks (min) External- 4 weeks (min) |
Nutrition Support+ |
Internal – 2-4 weeks External- 4 weeks |
Oncology I (Hematologic Malignancies) |
5 weeks |
Oncology II (Solid Tumors) |
5 weeks |
Hematology |
4 weeks |
Stem Cell Transplant |
4 weeks |
Precepting/Teaching† |
4-6 weeks |
Practice Management |
Longitudinal – 12 mos. |
Medication Use Evaluation |
Longitudinal – 7 mos. |
Research Project |
Longitudinal – 12 mos.‡ |
Presentations |
Longitudinal – 12 mos. |
Staffing |
Longitudinal – 11 mos. (begin Aug) |
Ambulatory |
Longitudinal – 10 mos. (begin Sep) |
ELECTIVES |
4-6 weeks |
Advanced required rotation† |
Medical Writing |
Academia† |
Neurology |
Academic Administration† |
Pain Management† |
Emergency Medicine |
Palliative Care† |
Infectious Diseases† |
Pharmacy Informatics |
Investigational Drug Services |
Precision Medicine† |
Investigational Drug Services II† |
Pulmonology |
Medication Safety |
|
Experiences found in the Traditional Pediatrics Pathway |
|
Other elective learning experiences may be developed based on resident interest and preceptor availability |
#Rotation lengths and elective offerings can be individualized with the RPD/Coordinator during Resident Development Plans.
+Nutrition Support is required in preparation for PGY2 Staffing. This may be completed during PGY1 for internal PGY1s, or will occur following Orientation.
†Advanced experiences and/or experiences designed with less direct pharmacy preceptor presence. These require residents to demonstrate adequate independence, progression, and/or resolution of any prior disciplinary actions before starting.
‡Residents will have ~3 scheduled project weeks in December between Midyear and New Year’s Day. Additionally, residents are given a bank of 5 project days that they may use throughout the year and under the following conditions: 1) the project day(s) are approved in advance by the rotation preceptor, 2) the resident does not miss more than 20% of the rotation per Leave and Attendance Expectations, and 3) the resident is making satisfactory progress on recent and current experiences.
PGY2-Residency requirements
Throughout the PGY2 residency year, each resident must:
- Start the residency program at the beginning of July
- Obtain Texas pharmacy licensure by July 1
- Meet staffing commitments
- Complete a residency research project and manuscript in publishable form. Residents will be required to present their research at either the PPA Annual Meeting or an appropriate specialty focused conference.
- Serve as a preceptor for pharmacy students and/or PGY1 residents
- In addition to rotations, the residents will be expected to complete various projects including, but not limited to:
- A Medication Use Evaluation
- A Pharmacy and Therapeutic Committee drug monograph
- Quality and performance improvement projects including Medication Safety Failure Mode Effects Analyses (FMEA)
- Drug Class Reviews to aid in formulary management
- FDA Label Updates for the Medication Safety group
- Community service projects
- Acquire teaching certificate through UNT Health Science Center College of Pharmacy (if not already obtained during PGY1)
Pharmacy department information
Cook Children's Pharmacy Department provides pharmaceutical services to all patients served by the health care system 24 hours a day. These patient populations are inpatients, ambulatory clinic patients, and urgent care and emergency patients. Pharmacy services include but are not limited to:
- Drug procurement and storage
- Drug preparation and dispensing
- Drug therapy treatment and monitoring plans
- Provision of drug information
- Medication history obtainment and medication reconciliation
- Parenteral nutrition evaluation and management
- Patient education and assistance with discharge planning, including a meds-to-beds delivery program and medication assistance indigent patients
The pharmacy is a part of the medical center's clinical support division and reports activities through the Pharmacy and Therapeutics Committee.
- Administration: Chief Pharmacy Officer, director of pharmacy, operations manager, clinical pharmacy manager, ambulatory services manager, advance therapeutics program manager, clinical coordinators, pharmacist supervisors, pharmacy technician supervisors, business manager, and regulatory affairs manager
- Specialists: NICU, PICU, hematology and oncology, cardiology, nutrition support, and antimicrobial stewardship/infectious diseases
- Pharmacy support: informatics, medication safety, investigational drugs, and pharmacy finance
- Two PGY1 and two PGY2 residents
- 80 full-time equivalent pharmacists: clinical, distributive, hematology and oncology and infusion center satellite, outpatient satellite, operating room satellite, emergency room satellite, ambulatory clinic, retail, and specialty pharmacy
- 80 full-time equivalent pharmacy technicians: distributive, clinical, data analyst, medication safety, medication assistance program, purchasing, inventory and billing/340b
- 18 pharmacy interns providing clinical and distributive support to PICU, ED, and Retail Pharmacy
Residency Biographies
Mike Bentley, PharmD
Clinical Pharmacist, Emergency Medicine
Tenure at Cook Children's: 2012
Residency Rotations: Emergency Medicine (PGY1)
Pharmacy Education: Texas Tech University HSC School of Pharmacy
Areas of Interest, Research, Professional Involvement: My interests are primarily related to pediatric emergency care, including toxicology, trauma and resuscitation. I am involved with our own Teddy Bear Transport team, along with working with outside hospitals and transport services with pre-hospital/pre-transfer protocols. I enjoy precepting/mentoring pharmacists and student pharmacists.
More About Me: I volunteer outside of my profession working with children/adolescents through coaching youth sports.
Kristin Bohannon, PharmD, BCPPS
Clinical Pharmacist, Pulmonary/Cystic Fibrosis Ambulatory Clinic
Tenure at Cook Children's: 2018
Residency Rotations: Ambulatory Care, Pulmonary
Pharmacy Education: Texas Tech Health Sciences Center School of Pharmacy
Post Graduate Training: PGY1 Seton Healthcare Family - Dell Children's Medical Center, PGY2 Pediatrics University of Kentucky
Areas of Interest, Research, Professional Involvement: My main areas of interest are currently in cystic fibrosis, asthma, and transitions of care. I am also involved in various quality improvement projects in the pulmonary clinic.
More About Me: In my spare time, I enjoy traveling, reading, going to concerts, and spending time with my friends, family and two puppies.
Michelle Crawford, PharmD, BCPS
Clinical pharmacy specialist, infectious diseases and antimicrobial stewardship
Tenure at Cook Children's: 2016
Residency Rotations: Infectious disease (PGY2)
Pharmacy Education: University of Texas at Austin College of Pharmacy
Post Graduate Training: PGY1 and PGY2 Pharmacotherapy - University of Texas at Austin and University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio
Areas of Interest, Research, Professional Involvement: My primary areas of interest are infectious diseases and antimicrobial stewardship. I'm also interested in immunology and other areas such as pediatric liver and intestinal transplantation. I'm involved with quality improvement initiatives and am a member of ACCP, SIDP and PIDS.
More About Me: I enjoy reading, bicycle riding and knitting.
Beth Deen, PharmD, BCNSP, BCPPS
Senior clinical pharmacy specialist, nutrition support and PGY1 residency program director
Tenure at Cook Children's: 1996
Residency Rotations: Nutrition Support elective (PGY1 and PGY2), Staffing - Nutrition Support Service (PGY2)
Pharmacy Education: B.S. Pharmacy, University of Iowa and Pharm.D., University of Texas
Post Graduate Training: PGY1 Pediatric Pharmacotherapy - Le Bonheur Children's Medical Center, The University of Tennessee
Areas of Interest, Research, Professional Involvement: I provide daily parenteral nutrition consults to the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, the gastroenterology service and throughout the medical center upon request. I enjoy mentoring young pharmacists serving as our PGY1s Residency Program Director. I also serve as the Past-Chair of the Pharmacy Practice section for ASPEN, the Chair of the GI/Nutrition Special Interest Group for PPA, and Chair of the Pediatric Pharmacy Specialty Council for BPS.
More About Me: I'm married and have four young adults and 3 German Shephards, which keeps our house very busy. I'm a morning person and love to exercise - yoga, walking or spinning on my Peleton! When I can get away, I love to travel (with AND without the kids).
Lauren Duran, PharmD, MBA, BCPPS
Clinical pharmacist, hematology and oncology
Tenure at Cook Children's: 2016
Residency Rotations: Pain Management (PGY1 and PGY2); Palliative Care (PGY2)
Pharmacy Education: Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center School of Pharmacy
Post Graduate Training: PGY1 Pharmacy Practice - Cook Children's Medical Center; PGY2 Pediatrics - Cook Children's Medical Center (focus in hematology and oncology)
Areas of Interest: I am interested in hematology and oncology, palliative care, pain management, opioid stewardship, parenteral nutrition support, medication safety and quality improvement.
Research: Quality improvement initiatives, novel pain management therapies in pediatrics and standardization initiatives in the pain management, palliative care, and oncology settings.
Professional involvement: Dallas-Fort Worth Chapter of ACCP (member/officer), Hematology-Oncology Pharmacist Association and Children's Oncology Group, PPA
More About Me: Originally from Houston, Texas, I moved to west Texas to attend college at Texas Tech University. Through undergraduate, graduate and pharmacy school I had the opportunity to provide health care services to the population of west Texas and the Texas panhandle. I was given the opportunity to work with a pediatric oncology pharmacist and physician in an outpatient clinic and infusion center, and I fell in love! Through my residency training, I found a new passion in pain management and palliative care. I enjoy working with a comprehensive medical team to provide optimal and novel care to the patients in these settings, with an emphasis on medication safety.
My husband, Robbie, and I have been married since 2012 and have a dog and one son. As a family, we enjoy hiking, watching movies, playing board games and hosting game nights with loved ones. We have lived all over Texas, and we may never leave. We love to travel, and we are excited to explore the world together!
Melissa Gervase, PharmD, BCPPS
Clinical pharmacy specialist, pediatric intensive care, PGY2 residency coordinator critical care track
Tenure at Cook Children's: 2014
Residency Rotations: Pediatric Intensive Care (PGY1 and PGY2)
Pharmacy Education: Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine, School of Pharmacy
Post Graduate Training: PGY1 Pharmacy Practice - Mission Hospitals; PGY2 Pediatrics - Monroe Carell Jr. Children's Hospital at Vanderbilt
Areas of Interest: Critical care, kidney transplant, infectious disease, pain and sedation, and health literacy
Research: Quality improvement initiatives
Professional Involvement: PPA (member, vice-chair critical care SIG, education committee, and past platform presentor)
More About Me: I spend most of my free time with my daughter and furbabies, Bentley and Dolly. I love to travel and try to take at least one international trip a year!
Kasaandra Ibañez, PharmD
Clinical Pharmacist, General Pediatrics
Tenure at Cook Children's: 2022
Residency Rotations: General Pediatrics (PGY1 and PGY2)
Pharmacy Education: University of Houston College of Pharmacy
Post Graduate Training: PGY1 Pharmacy Practice – Memorial Hermann-Texas Medical Center; PGY2 Pediatrics – Cook Children’s Medical Center
Areas of Interest, Research, Professional Involvement: My interests include general pediatrics, cystic fibrosis, and total parenteral nutrition. I paticipate on the NINJA, pharmacy phun, and resident wellness committees, and I'm also a member of ASHP and PPA.
More About Me: I enjoy dancing ballet folklorico, crocheting, reading, baking, cooking new recipes with my fiancé, and spending time with my friends and family.
Devinne James, PharmD
Education Coordinator - Pharmacy
Tenure at Cook Children's: 2016
Residency Rotations: Orientation & Staffing (PGY1 & PGY2)
Pharmacy Education: Harding University College of Pharmacy
Areas of Interest, Research, Professional Involvement: My interests include pharmacy operations, medication safety, and quality improvement. I am involved with various projects regarding patient safety and improving central pharmacy operations.
More About Me: I spend my spare time reading, working out, and binge-watching dramas. I love beating my friends and family in card and board games, cooking for loved ones, and discovering new places close by and far away.
Aaron Knott, PharmD
Pharmacy Supervisor - Dodson Infusion Pharmacy
Tenure at Cook Children's: 2011
Residency Rotations: Longitudinal Staffing - Hematology/Oncology, Infusion Center Pharmacy (PGY2)
Pharmacy Education: University of Kansas
Post Graduate Training: PGY-1 at Cook Children's Medical Center 2011-2012
Areas of Interest, Research, Professional Involvement: Pediatric oncology, stem cell transplant, cellular therapy. I stumbled into pediatric hematology/oncology during my first week of rotations in my last year of school. We started out by staffing at a pediatric H/O summer camp and dispensed their medications. I quickly decided I wanted to pursue a pediatric residency and I've been enjoying my time in H/O world ever since!
More About Me: Two of my biggest interests outside of work are running (often my interest is in running shoes more than the actual running itself) and space. Going to see a rocket launch is on my bucket list.
Micha Koentz, PharmD
Investigational Pharmacy Supervisor
Tenure at Cook Children's: 2011
Residency Rotations: Investigational Drug Services (PGY1 and PGY2)
Pharmacy Education: St. Louis College of Pharmacy
Post Graduate Training: PGY1 Pharmacy Practice Residency - St. John's Mercy Hospital (Springfield, MO)
Areas of Interest, Research, Professional Involvement: I have always been passionate about oncology. During my residency, I was trained in pediatric oncology through the St. Jude Children's Research Hospital clinic at my institution. After residency, I moved to Texas to work at Cook Children's. Here, I was introduced to pediatric oncology through Children's Oncology Group (COG). I worked for a few years as an oncology clincal pharmacist and in the outpatient chemotherapy setting. In 2014, I moved into the investigatinal pharmacy role. Here, I am in charge of investigational drugs in the oncology setting. This role is exciting and has new challenges every day. I love being part of a world that is trying to advance pediatric oncology medication.
More About Me: I am originally from Missouri. I love being outdoors, watching sports (Go Gators!), traveling, being active, and spending time with my friends and family.
Nhi La, PharmD
Senior Clinical Pharmacist, Infectious Disease/Immunology Ambulatory Clinic
Tenure at Cook Children's: 2007
Residency Rotations: Ambulatory clinic, Infectious disease (PGY1 and PGY2); Infectious disease (PGY1)
Pharmacy Education: University of Texas at Austin College of Pharmacy
Areas of Interest, Research, Professional Involvement: My interests include HIV, antimicrobial stewardship, process improvement, and precepting. I like to be involved in projects and research related to penicillin allergy, immunization, and inborn errors of immunity.
More About Me: I'm married and have 3 girls - Victoria, Catherine and Elizabeth. I like to play tennis, travel and be outdoors with the kids.
Ashley Lynch, PharmD, BCPPS
Clinical pharmacist, critical care and acute care
Tenure at Cook Children's: 2022
Residency Rotations: Acute care (PGY1 and PGY2)
Pharmacy Education: Samford University
Areas of Interest, Research, Professional Involvement: My interests include critical care, emergency medicine, infectious disease, medication safety, and neurology. Professionally, I am involved in PPA (member, vice-chair for the critical care special interest group, past chair/vice-chair for the emergency medicine special interest group, BCPPS recertification program advisory committee), ACCP (member), ASHP (member), and FIP (member).
More About Me: I love to travel, bake, eat delicious food, and just generally go on adventures with my husband and toddler!
Ean Miller, PharmD, BCPPS
Clinical Pharmacy Manager, PGY2 Residency Program Director
Tenure at Cook Children's: 2012
Residency Rotations: Pharmacy administration (PGY1); Practice management (PGY2)
Pharmacy Education: Southwestern Oklahoma State University College of Pharmacy
Post Graduate Training: PGY1 Pharmacy Practice - Wesley Medical Center; PGY2 Pediatrics - Palmetto Health Children's Hospital
Areas of Interest: Emergency medicine, critical care, pharmacy leadership, process and quality improvement, coaching, mentorship, precepting and teaching
Research: Quality improvement initiatives, impact and expansion of pharmacist roles in pediatric care, precepting and teaching
Professional Involvement: CHA (member); PPA (member); ASHP (member, past platform presenter); TSHP (past platform presenter)
More About Me: I've been married to my wife, Raven, since 2006 but she has been my best friend since 2000 – over half my life now! We have three wonderful kids: our oldest son, Eden, daughter, EmmaClaire, and youngest son, Ezra. Outside of Cook Children's, I play bass guitar for our worship band and am active in many other ways in our local church, local homeless ministries, and foreign mission work. I enjoy the mental and physical challenge of long distance running and regularly completed half-marathons and have two full marathons under my shoes, but following a recent injury I have taken up biking. I also appreciate the feeling of accomplishment from DIY projects or just maintaining our house and cars.
Kyle Mulloy, PharmD, MS
Manager, Pharmacy Operations
Tenure at Cook Children's: 2017
Residency Rotations: Staffing (PGY1)
Pharmacy Education:: University of Texas at Austin COP
Post Graduate Training: PGY1/PGY2 Residency in Health-System Pharmacy Administration at Nationwide Children's Hospital. Masters in Health Science Administration at The Ohio State University College of Pharmacy
Areas of Interest, Research, Professional Involvement: Operations, leadership, and process improvement. I enjoy serving on multidisciplinary committees throughout the organization that focus on patient safety, handling of hazardous drugs, and quality improvement.
More About Me: Born and raised in Kansas City, attended TCU for undergrad, and that's where I found my person. After 10 years away from Fort Worth (pharmacy school, residency, & first job outside Dallas) we found our way back to the best city in Texas. I've got three kids and a Vizsla pup, and we spend as much time in the pool as possible. Most of my wardrobe is purple (Go Frogs!) and I listen to around 15 hours of podcasts a week…usually on 1.5x speed for efficiency. It took me 10 years to finally get rid of my pharmacy school notes.
Ozioma Ogbuokiri Olowu, PharmD, BCPPS
Chief Pharmacy Officer, Administration
Tenure at Cook Children's: 2006
Pharmacy Education: Northeastern University Bouvé College of Pharmacy
Post Graduate Training: PGY1 Pharmacy Practice - Children's National Medical Center; PGY2 Pharmacy Administration - University of Pittsburgh; Diplomate, ASHP Pharmacy Leadership Academy, Texas Christian University Advancing Healthcare Leadership; ASHP Certified Pharmacy Executive Leader
Areas of Interest, Research, Professional Involvement: My practice interests include administration, expansion of the pharmacist, student pharmacist and technician roles, health care equality, teaching and economic outcomes research. I am a member of the local, state and national health system, clinical pharmacy and pediatric pharmacy organizations, serving in various capacities and leadership roles since pharmacy school.
More About Me: I'm originally from South Jersey, and am now officially a Texan! I have three children who keep me very busy. When I do get time to myself, I enjoy reading, working out or sleeping, not necessarily in that order. I also enjoy traveling and have a long bucket list of places in the world I'd like to see!
Olga Rodriguez, PharmD, BCPPS
Clinical pharmacy specialist, cardiology and PGY2 pediatric residency coordinator
Tenure at Cook Children's: 2008
Residency Rotations: Cardiology (PGY1 and PGY2)
Pharmacy Education: University of Texas at Austin College of Pharmacy
Post Graduate Training: PGY1 Pharmacy Practice - Cook Children's Medical Center
Areas of Interest, Research, Professional Involvement: Pediatric/neonatal cardiology, pulmonary hypertension, extracorporeal membrane oxygenation, pre- and post-kidney transplant patient education for recipients and donors and parenteral nutrition support. I participate on the code and venous thromboembolism committees, and I'm also a member of ACCP and ASHP.
More About Me: I spend most of my time with my dog Bela. Bela and I enjoy long walks and traveling to visit family. I enjoy traveling around the world, hiking, trekking and live music.
Kimberly Tobin, PharmD, BCPPS
Clinical pharmacy specialist, Neonatal intensive care unit
Tenure at Cook Children's: 2012
Residency Rotations: Neonatal intensive care (PGY1 and PGY2)
Pharmacy Education: Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center School of Pharmacy
Post Graduate Training: PGY1 Pharmacy Practice and PGY2 Pediatrics - Cook Children's Medical Center
Areas of Interest, Research, Professional Involvement: My interests include critical care, pain and sedation, infectious disease, pharmacokinetics, and drug dosing in special populations. I am involved in quality improvement initiatives within the pharmacy department and the neonatal pain committee.
More About Me: I love to travel with my family exploring new places and trying new foods.
Heidi Trinkman, PharmD, BCOP
Clinical pharmacy specialist, hematology and oncology, stem cell transplant, PGY2 residency coordinator hematology and oncology track
Tenure at Cook Children's: 2006
Residency Rotations: Hematology/oncology, Stem cell transplant (PGY1 and PGY2), Ambulatory care, hematology/oncology (PGY2)
Pharmacy Education: University of Oklahoma
Post Graduate Training: PGY2 Oncology - Johns Hopkins Hospital
Areas of Interest, Research, Professional Involvement: hemophilia/coagulation disorders, oncology supportive care, cellular and molecular targeted therapies
More About Me: I enjoy music, movies and all things Disney!
Stephanie Tupper, PharmD, CPPS
Medication Safety Officer
Tenure at Cook Children's: 2013
Residency Rotations: Medication Safety (PGY1)
Pharmacy Education: Loma Linda University School of Pharmacy
Post Graduate Training: PGY1 Pharmacy Practice - Cook Children's Medical Center, Certified Professional in Patient Safety
Areas of Interest, Research, Professional Involvement: My main areas of interest are medication safety, quality improvement, process standardization, and error prevention. I enjoy taking part in multidisciplinary committees that strive to improve the safety and efficacy of the care we provide.
More About Me: I am from California and moved to Texas with my husband for my residency at CCMC in 2013. Since then, we have been slowly recruited our parents, siblings, and a few cousins to join us in Texas! I love playing with our kids, spending time with family and friends, traveling, shopping, and taking Barre classes.
Jake Voyles, PharmD
Title: Clinical Pharmacist, Critical Care
Tenure at Cook Children’s: 2021
Residency Rotations: Pediatric ICU (PGY1)
Pharmacy Education: The Medical College of Wisconsin School of Pharmacy
Post Graduate Training: PGY1 Pharmacy – Cook Children’s Medical Center; PGY2 Pediatric (Critical Care Track) – Cook Children’s Medical Center
Areas of Interest, Research, Professional Involvement: My areas of interest and research are primarily in Critical care and quality improvement having completed multiple projects during residency.
More About Me: I am a Midwest transplant from Rockford, Illinois. I have been living in Texas for three years now. For two of those years, I was a resident here at Cook Children’s having completed a generalized first year and specialized second year in pediatric critical care. I now work in multiple ICU and ED settings while precepting students and residents. Outside of work, my fiancé and I have two dogs that we enjoy talking for walks. I am also an avid baseball fan – go Cardinals!
Greg Wendel, PharmD, BCPPS
Clinical Pharmacist, general pediatrics
Tenure at Cook Children's: 2010
Residency Rotations: General Pediatrics (PGY1 and PGY2)
Pharmacy Education: University of Kansas
Post Graduate Training: PGY1 Pharmacy Practice - Children's Hospital of Wisconsin
Areas of Interest: Pulmonology, infectious disease, and general process improvement
Professional Involvement: ASHP, PPA
More About Me: I enjoy distance running, home improvement projects, and spending time with my wife and daughter.
Shanequa Williams, PharmD, MPH, BCPS, BCPPS, CPH
Manager, Epic Inpatient & Ambulatory Pharmacy Applications
Tenure at Cook Children's: 2015
Pharmacy Education: University of Texas at Austin College of Pharmacy
Post Graduate Training: PGY1 Pharmacy Practice - Texas Tech University/Texas Health Harris Methodist - Fort Worth; PGY2 Pediatrics - Children’s Medical Center - Dallas
Areas of Interest, Research, Professional Involvement: My primary areas of interest include pharmacy informatics and clinical decision support. I am involved in several multidisciplinary teams throughout the organization and I am currently a member of MSHP, TSHP, and ASHP. In addition, I currently serve as the president on the Board of Directors for the Mother’s Milk.
More About Me: I enjoy spending time with my family and staying active through various types of physical activity such as running and bootcamp style workouts.
Alice Yeh, PharmD, BCPS, BCPPS, LSSYB
Clinical Pharmacy Coordinator, Emergency Services
Residency Rotations: Emergency Medicine (PGY1 and PGY2)
Tenure at Cook Children's: 2014
Pharmacy Education: University of Michigan
Areas of Interest, Research, Professional Involvement: My primary areas of interest are critical care, drug information, and process improvement. I'm a member of ASHP and PPA. I am currently working on our transitions of care program at Cook Children's.
More About Me: I enjoy playing the piano, baking, knitting, and general life-hacking. My husband and I are the proud parents of a toddler, one cantankerous cat with one eye, and another cat that thinks she's a dog.
PGY1 Pharmacy Practice Resident, Class of 2025
Started at Cook Children's: 2021
Pharmacy Education: Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center Jerry H. Hodge School of Pharmacy
Areas of Interest, Research, Professional Involvement: My interests involve critical care and infectious diseases. My most recent research during school focused on direct thrombin inhibitor use in the intensive care unit compared to heparin usage to treat heparin-induced thrombocytopenia and thrombosis prevention. This year I look forward to doing more research geared towards critical care topics, specifically in NICU and PICU. I am excited for the opportunities for growth and clinical development throughout this year and learning more from the CCMC Pharmacy team!
More About Me: I am born and raised in Dallas, Texas. I love doing adventurous activities (i.e. kayaking, paddleboarding, hiking, etc.), hanging out with my family and friends, painting, spontaneous road trips, and trying new restaurants! I also love a good karaoke night with friends! My goal this year is to learn how to be a better cook and trying new recipes.
PGY1 Pharmacy Practice Resident, Class of 2025
Started at Cook Children's: 2024
Pharmacy Education: Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center Jerry H. Hodge School of Pharmacy
Areas of Interest, Research, Professional Involvement: My areas of interest include NICU, cardiology, and general pediatrics with a focus on patient education. This year, I am excited to conduct research in the neonatal population. I look forward to my professional growth and the many new clinical experiences I will have this upcoming year.
More About Me: I grew up in Sweetwater, Texas, where my graduating high school class was 10 students (including myself). I have grown to love Fort Worth by going to different concerts and events here. I love to try new things, so I keep a running list of restaurants and places to visit. Finally, I have two cats, Oliver and Odin, who like to keep me on my toes at home!
PGY2 Pediatric Hematology/Oncology Pharmacy Resident, class of 2025
Started at Cook Children's: 2023
Pharmacy Education: Southern Illinois University Edwardsville
PGY1 Pharmacy Residency: Cook Children’s Medical Center, Fort Worth, TX
Areas of Interest, Research, Professional Involvement: My areas of interest include hematology/oncology, pharmacogenomics, research, informatics, med safety and transitions of care. My past research focused on NICU and hematology/oncology. This year I look forward to continuing research in hematology/oncology, while exploring research in med safety and informatics. I am excited for all the opportunites that this year will offer!
More About Me: I am originally from Chicago, IL but have come to love the fun and heat that DFW brings. I love to read, take trips, and try new restaurants and different recipes. I can be competitive so game nights with friends are always fun! In my spare time during residency you can find me catching up on sleep or catching up on my TV shows!
PGY2 Pediatric Pharmacy Resident, Class of 2025
Started at Cook Children's: 2024
Pharmacy Education: University of Colorado Skaggs School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences
PGY1 Pharmacy Residency: Driscoll Children’s Hospital, Corpus Christi, TX
Areas of Interest, Research, Professional Involvement: My areas of interest include behavioral health and psychiatry, infectious disease, and general pediatrics. My past research was focused on the mental health effects of CFTR modulators in pediatric cystic fibrosis. I am looking forward to this year of learning and growth.
More About Me: I was born and raised in Monument, Colorado. I love travelling, listening to true crime podcasts, and spending time with my husband, two dogs, and cat at home. I also enjoy baking and visiting my nieces and nephews back in Colorado whenever possible.
Meet pharmacy residents who have graduated from Cook Children's ASHP-accredited pharmacy residency.
Past pharmacy residents
Kate Ball, PharmD
PGY1 2023-2024
- Pharmacy Education: Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center Jerry H. Hodge School of Pharmacy
- First Position Post-residency: Clinical Pharmacist- Critical Care, Cook Children's Medical Center, Fort Worth, TX
Savannah Pullin, PharmD
PGY1 2022-2023 & PGY2 2023-2024 (Pediatric Track)
- Pharmacy Education: Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center Jerry H. Hodge School of Pharmacy
- First Position Post-residency: Clinical Pharmacist- Critical Care, Driscoll Children's Hosptial, Corpus Christi, TX
Kasaandra Ibanez, PharmD
PGY2 2022-2023 (General Pediatrics Track)
- Pharmacy Education: University of Houston College of Pharmacy
- First Position Post-residency: Clinical Pharmacist- Acute Care, Cook Children's Medical Center, Fort Worth, TX
Jake Voyles, PharmD
PGY1 2021-2022 & PGY2 2022-2023 (Critical Care Track)
- Pharmacy Education: The Medical College of Wisconsin in Milwaukee, Wisconsin
- First Position Post-residency: Clinical Pharmacist- Critical Care, Cook Children's Medical Center, Fort Worth, TX
Andre Castaneda, PharmD
PGY1 2022-2023
- Pharmacy Education: The University of North Texas Health Science Center at Fort Worth
- First Position Post-residency: Clinical Pharmacist- Acute Care, Cook Children's Medical Center, Fort Worth, TX
Danielle Kibby, PharmD
PGY1 2020-2021 & PGY2 2021-2022 (Hematology & Oncology Track)
- Pharmacy Education: University of Florida College of Pharmacy
- First Position Post-residency: Clinical Specialist- Pediatric Hematolog/Oncology, AdventHealth for Children, Orlando, FL
Lauren Jenkins, PharmD
PGY1 2021-2022
- Pharmacy Education: The Univeristy of North Texas Health Science Center at Fort Worth
- First Position Post-residency: PGY2 Health-System and Pharmacy Leadership Residency, Baylor Scott & White Health System, Dallas, TX
Cyrus Yahyavi, PharmD
PGY1 2021-2022
- Pharmacy Education: University of Tennessee Health Science Center College of Pharmacy
- First Position Post-residency: Clinical Pharmacist, Pediatric Critical Care, Children's Medical Center, Dallas, TX
Brooke Lizotte, PharmD
PGY1 2020-2021
- Southwestern Oklahoma State University
- Clinical Pharmacist at Fairbanks Memorial Hospital
Liza Kramer, PharmD
PGY1 2019-2020 & PGY2 2020-2021 (Hematology & Oncology Track)
- University of Iowa College of Pharmacy
- Clinical Pharmacist at Children's Wisconsin
2016-2020
Sierra Richard, PharmD
PGY1 2019-2020
- University of Missouri-Kansas City
- Clinical Pharmacist at University of Missouri Women's and Children's Hospital
Mackenzie Creamer, PharmD
PGY1 2018-2019 & PGY2 2019-2020 (Hematology & Oncology Track)
- University of Mississippi
- Heme/Onc Clinical Specialist at Children's Hospital New Orleans
Allie Elizory, PharmD, BCOP
PGY2 2018-2019 (Hematology & Oncology Track)
- University of Florida College of Pharmacy
- Clinical Pharmacist - Oncology/BMT at Children's Hospital Colorado
- Board Certified Oncology Pharmacist (Spring 2021)
Ellen Bickel, PharmD, BCPPS
PGY1 2017-2018 & PGY2 2018-2019 (Critical Care Track)
- University of South Florida School of Pharmacy
- Clinical Pharmacist PICU lead at University of New Mexico Hospital
- Board Certified Pediatric Pharmacy Specialist (Fall 2019)
Shannon Oliver, PharmD, BCPPS
PGY1 2017-2018
- Samford University McWhorter School of Pharmacy
- Staff Pharmacist at Arkansas Children's NW
- Board Certified Pediatric Pharmacy Specialist (Spring 2021)
Sarah Waller, PharmD, BCPS, BCPPS
PGY2 2017-2018 (General Pediatrics Track)
- University of South Carolina College of Pharmacy
- Pediatric Clinical Pharmacist at Spartanburg Medical Center
- Board Certified Pharmacotherapy Specialist (Spring 2018); Board Certified Pediatric Pharmacy Specialist (Spring 2019)
Lauren Duran, PharmD, BCPPS
PGY1 2016-2017 & PGY2 2017-2018 (Hematology & Oncology Track)
- Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center School of Pharmacy
- Heme/Onc Clinical Pharmacist at Cook Children's Medical Center
- Board Certified Pediatric Pharmacy Specialist (Fall 2018)
Kimberly Tobin, PharmD, BCPPS
PGY1 2015-2016 & PGY2 2016-2017 (Critical Care Track)
- Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center School of Pharmacy
- NICU Clinical Specialist at Cook Children's Medical Center
- Board Certified Pediatric Pharmacy Specialist (Spring 2019)
Dani Ball, PharmD
PGY1 2015-2016 & PGY2 2016-2017 (Critical Care Track)
- University of South Carolina School of Pharmacy
- Critical Care Clinical Pharmacist at Cook Children's Medical Center
2011 -2015
Kylee Kastelic, PharmD
PGY1 2014-2015
- Oregon State University College of Pharmacy
- Drug Information and Drug Policy Pharmacist at Oregon Health & Science University/Doernbecher Children's Hospital
Clifford Ho, PharmD
PGY1 2014-2015
- University of Texas at Austin College of Pharmacy
- Critical Care Clinical Pharmacist at Cook Children's Medical Center
Stephanie Tupper, PharmD
PGY1 2013-2014
- Loma Linda University
- Medication Safety Officer at Cook Children's Medical Center
Ana Nicho, PharmD, BCPPS
PGY1 2013-2014
- University of Texas at Austin College of Pharmacy
- PICU Clinical Pharmacy Specialist at University Health System, San Antonio
- Board Certified Pediatric Pharmacy Specialist (Fall 2017)
Tola Adu, PharmD, BCPPS
PGY1 2011-2012
- LECOM School of Pharmacy
- Float Clinical Pharmacy Specialist at Children's Healthcare of Atlanta
- Board Certified Pediatric Pharmacy Specialist (Spring 2018)
Aaron Knott, PharmD
PGY1 2011-2012
- University of Kansas School of Pharmacy
- Infusion Pharmacy Supervisor at Cook Children's Medical Center
Pearl Wong, PharmD, BCPPS
PGY1 2010-2011
- University of Missouri-Kansas City School of Pharmacy
- Manager, Ambulatory Pharmacy Services at Cook Children's Medical Center
- Board Certified Pediatric Pharmacy Specialist (Spring 2021)
2008-2010
Melissa Cwikinski, PharmD, BCPPS
PGY1 2009-2010
- Pacific University School of Pharmacy
- General Pediatrics Clinical Supervisor at Doernbecher Children's Hospital
- Board Certified Pediatric Pharmacy Specialist (Spring 2020)
Stephanie Karasick, PharmD, BCPS, BCPPS
PGY1 2009-2010
- University of Texas at Austin College of Pharmacy
- Critical Care Clinical Specialist at Children's Medical Center Dallas
- Board Certified Pediatric Pharmacy Specialist (Fall 2019) & Board Certified Pharmacotherapy Specialist (Fall 2019)
Maja Smailagic, PharmD
PGY1 2008-2009
- University of Texas at Austin College of Pharmacy
- Epic Pharmacy Informatics Specialist at Cook Children's Medical Center
Olga Rodriguez, PharmD, BCPPS
PGY1 2008-2009
- University of Texas at Austin College of Pharmacy
- Cardiology Clinical Specialist at Cook Children's Medical Center
- Board Certified Pediatric Pharmacy Specialist (Fall 2020)
Residency program application instructions
Interested candidates should submit the following items no later than January 2nd.
- Pharmacy Online Residency Centralized Application Service (PhORCAS) application
- Candidate application with the National Matching Service (NMS)
- A one-page letter of intent which includes both your short and long-term professional goals, why you are pursuing residency training, and why you are interested in the residency program at Cook Children’s Medical Center
- Official transcript from pharmacy school
- Curriculum vitae (CV)
- Three letters of recommendations required; a fourth letter is optional.
- One letter must be from a clinical preceptor (pediatric preceptor preferred)
- One letter should be from most recent employer (pharmacy employer preferred)
- PGY2: One letter must be from PGY1 Residency Program Director (RPD)
- Optional photograph
A screening interview is required. Selected applicants will then be invited to interview with Cook Children’s Medical Center at a mutually convenient time during late January or February.
Additional Program Documents
Cook Children's Diversity, Equity and Inclusion
- Learn how we focus on health equity
- Employee Resource Groups (ERG)
- BOLD+ (Black Organization for Leadership and Development)
- (LEADS+) Latinos Engaging, Advancing, Developing & Supporting
- Veterans+
- Pride+ (LGBTQ+)