Pharmacists and pharmaceutical researchers are often leaders in their communities, and University of Rhode Island College of Pharmacy students often waste no time serving in the role. Four students in particular have taken on leadership roles over the last year, making significant impacts on the university community and the state beyond.
Those students include:
Revaa Goyal has been appointed to the URI Board of Trustees, which appoints and reviews the university president, sets performance goals, approves the budget and oversees the campus facilities. Goyal has been appointed as a student representative, offering the board a student’s perspective on university needs. She is working on such issues as housing shortages, food insecurity and overall student life. In adddition, Goyal serves as an RA, campus tour guide, URI 101 mentor, vice president of APHA and secretary of Kappa Psi.
Nisha Kakwani has been named RAM of the Year for the University for her work mentoring more than 150 first-year pharmacy students, helping them adjust to college life. Resident Academic Mentors provide resources, coordinate student programming, and provide one-on-one academic support. Kakwani said she aims to prioritize mental health and assist in educational progress, as well as supporting their social lives. She also serves as a university tour guide, pharmacy RA, vice president of ASCAP, and as a board member on the College’s Diversity Equity and Inclusion Committee, promoting diversity in the profession.
Ramez Rizk was elected student body president in March, and now oversees the Student Senate, represents students at university events, and works with faculty members and university administrators to improve the quality of life for students. Rizk is an international student from Egypt, a resident assistant, teacher assistant, member of the Middle Eastern Student Association, a member of Christian organizations, a Global Peer Ambassador, and founder of a Pharmacovigilance club in the College. He is working on such issues as a syllabus bank, food sustainability and better composting practices in dining services, among others.
Mazen Taman was selected as student speaker for the University’s main commencement ceremony in May, when he himself crossed the stage to receive his Pharm.D. Taman has excelled in academics, played for four years as a linebacker on the URI football team, participated in pharmaceutical research projects, and actively engaged in campus activities. He has interned at Rhode Island Hospital and CVS Pharmacy, contributing to studies on blood pressure monitoring and investigational drugs. Additionally, he has been involved in COVID-19 vaccine trials and volunteered for community organizations. After earning his Pharm.D. in May, Taman is preparing for medical school at Brown University.