The University of South Carolina College of Pharmacy is proud to share that third-year student Thayra Rios Schad is the recipient of the 2021 Mary Munson Runge Scholarship by the American Pharmacists Association Foundation.
Established in honor of a pioneer in pharmacy, the Mary Munson Runge Scholarship was endowed to help pave the way for future leaders of pharmacy. Runge was the first woman and first African American to serve as president of APhA.
“Mary Munson Runge was a pioneer in this field and, to me, this scholarship represents women's advancement in pharmacy,” says Rios Schad. “Mary Munson Runge also aimed to work with underprivileged patients. My career goals are in line with this scholarship as I am interested in helping vulnerable patient populations and providing the best possible care for my patients.”
Originally from Ponce, Puerto Rico, Rios Schad has been actively involved in the UofSC Academy of Student Pharmacists chapter of APhA, serving as the Operation Diabetes chair for two consecutive years. In this role, she has organized Wellness Wednesday events for the local Columbia community, along with fundraisers, walks and educational presentations for her peers.
“I’m grateful to be the recipient of such a scholarship that allows me to not only pursue my goals with confidence, but also encourages me to continue holding events that ensure the well-being of my community,” she says. “Being given this opportunity has opened my eyes to the impact I can have within the community while reinforcing the passion I have toward the profession of pharmacy."
When I think of strong female leaders within our College of Pharmacy of whom Runge would be most proud, Thayra immediately stands out ...
Caitlin Mardis, Pharm.D. Director of Continuing Education
Assistant Professor and Director of Continuing Education Caitlin Mardis, Pharm.D., affirms that Rios Schad embodies the spirit of the award. “Thayra’s passion, motivation, and dedication to the profession of pharmacy make her most deserving of this recognition.”
“When I think of strong female leaders within our College of Pharmacy of whom Runge would be most proud, Thayra immediately stands out,” Mardis adds. “She recognizes key opportunities by which her fellow students could be better trained to serve their patients and relentlessly works to fill those gaps.”