IPPE Preceptor of the Year 2025

Each year, students select an outstanding preceptor for recognition for their Introductory Pharmacy Practice Experience (IPPE). Awards are given for the P1 Community and Summer IPPE, and the P2 Longitudinal IPPE. These educators are outstanding clinical teachers who apply knowledge of the basic health sciences to the treatment and care of a patient in a manner that ensures the best educational opportunities for students and high-quality care for patients.

The 2025 IPPE Preceptors of the Year are:

Class of 2026 Community Pharmacy

Chelane Au, PharmD, Safeway

Au is recognized for her outstanding dedication to teaching and her deep commitment to student learning and patient care. She consistently engages her students through clinical knowledge checks and drug information quizzes, creating a dynamic learning environment that fosters growth and confidence. Her compassionate approach to patient care leaves a lasting impression—especially her patience and empathy during encounters with individuals needing extra support. Au empowers her students by providing hands-on opportunities in medication consultations, order processing, OTC recommendations, and setting up glycemic monitoring devices. Her students describe her as a role model for both clinical excellence and heartfelt care, making her a truly deserving recipient of this award.

Class of 2025 Concentrated Health Systems

Elise Wozniak, PharmD, UCSF Health

Wozniak cultivated a collaborative and challenging setting that encouraged independent thinking and professional growth. She provided clear expectations, consistent guidance, and valuable resources that helped me develop skills in researching drug monographs and preparing P&T presentations. Her open communication and patient mentorship fostered confidence and critical thinking, while opportunities to participate in P&T meetings and formulary management offered unique hands-on experience. Her supportive and structured approach made this rotation a meaningful and formative part of my training, and I strongly recommend her for recognition as an outstanding preceptor.

Class of 2025 Longitudinal Health Systems

Catherine Yen, PharmD, UCSF Health

Yen stands out as a thoughtful and approachable preceptor who fosters a positive and enriching learning environment. Students consistently shared how supported they felt under her guidance, citing her open-door approach to questions and her ability to make each rotation day a valuable learning opportunity. Her leadership within the neurosurgery pharmacy team not only promotes clinical growth but also inspires confidence. Through direct involvement in patient care activities and meaningful feedback, Yen helped students strengthen skills in patient communication, medication reconciliation, and clinical reasoning. Students frequently praised her calm and flexible teaching style, noting how she takes the time to explain workflows and encourages independent thinking. Her efforts go beyond the basics— demonstrating a strong commitment to professional development and compassionate care. A role model in both practice and mentorship, Ye is deeply appreciated by her students for her encouragement, expertise, and dedication to their growth as future pharmacists.