David Collins not only wore a white coat, he was everything that his pharmacy designation stood for … and more.
The late pharmacist, who died tragically in 2016, will be honoured as the Memorial School of Pharmacy’s 2018 White Coat award recipient during a ceremony Thursday at 5 p.m. in the Health Sciences auditorium.
His daughter, Julia Collins, will accept the honour on his behalf. She says her father made it his goal to make people feel welcome and included, both professionally and personally.
“I’ve heard countless stories from patients, co-workers and friends alike, recounting memories of friendship, compassion and dedication,” Julia said in a news release Tuesday.
“He fondly told me about his role in the school of pharmacy, and how proud he was to be a part of the next generation of pharmacists in Newfoundland and Labrador and elsewhere. His passion for the pharmacy community was unrivalled, and I am so honoured to be able to accept the honorary white coat on his behalf,” she added.
The 2017 recipient Don Rowe will make the White Coat presentation.
His passion for his work was exhibited through his dedication to the profession and the pharmacy school is recognizing him for his leadership, mentorship and inspiration shown to future pharmacists.
Collins managed a number of pharmacies across the province and was the regional pharmacy manager with Lawton’s Drugs, a position he held from 2009 until his death. His enthusiasm as a preceptor for students and his passion for the profession made him an ideal recipient of the honorary white coat.
Lawton’s Drugs and the school of pharmacy are working on a memorial award to be handed out in Collins’s name.
