Binghamton School of Pharmacy has three ’Career Champions’ named

Three faculty and staff members from the ​Binghamton University School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences are being honored for their dedication to helping students.

On March 28, Binghamton University’s Fleishman Center for Career and Professional Development held its ninth annual Career Champions Breakfast to honor 175 faculty and staff members from across campus for impacting students’ personal and professional growth.

Established by the Fleishman Center in 2015, Career Champions are nominated by students to recognize faculty and staff who have assisted them in discovering their purpose, identifying their career objectives, solidifying academic or professional plans, or securing employment. Career Champions may have helped students explore career options, network with professionals, apply for graduate school, connect with employers for jobs or internships, gain technical or professional skills, learn industry knowledge and much more.

Three members from the Binghamton University School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences were named Career Champions this year:

• Amanda Padwa, the administrative coordinator for student affairs
• Leon Cosler, an associate professor of pharmacy practice
• Katie Edwards, an assistant professor of pharmaceutical sciences

“It’s such an honor to be recognized by students,” Padwa said. “Every day is a different kind of whirlwind, so it’s easy to forget the impact that we can make in their lives as we help them along their time at SOPPS. For a student to take the time to write up a nomination for an award like this is such a validation of the work I do here, and I am so humbled by it!

An anonymous student wrote this in the recommendation letter for Padwa: “Amanda has always volunteered to help make difficult decisions regarding current and future career goals. She makes sure to listen to all of our concerns and then help formulate a plan to follow. She enables us to think for ourselves, offering many resources to help along the way.

“Amanda not only remained a mentor for us prior to graduate school but continues to check in and make sure to offer any support that we may need. She is willing to set aside her own work to make sure that students feel comfortable in their decisions as well as where to seek additional opportunities. She gets to know all of us individually for who we are and never judges us for going off-script. Amanda has been my go-to for any type of assistance, and she successfully helps and points me in the right direction. She knows how to make connections with others, helps with event coordination and overall improves academic outcomes. Thank you for all that you do for your students!”

Kyle Weekes, a P2 pharmacy student, nominated Edwards this year.

“I nominated Dr. Edwards as a Career Champion because of the incredible support and guidance she has given me throughout my time at SOPPS,” said Weekes. “She has been a constant source of encouragement, especially during some of the most difficult decisions I’ve faced regarding both my athletic and academic paths. Dr. Edwards always takes the time to listen, offer thoughtful insight, and help me weigh my options in a way that aligns with my goals and values. Her genuine care and mentorship have made a lasting impact on my journey, and I’m truly grateful for her presence in my corner.”

Edwards said she was moved when she learned Kyle had nominated her.

“Receiving the nomination was a pleasant surprise,” Edward said. “Kyle is an outstanding student, athlete and a thoughtful and caring person. I am honored that he values our interactions. This award means a lot to me and serves as a reminder of the positive impact that we, as faculty, can have while also learning from our students.”

Leon Cosler shared that he was deeply honored and humbled to have been nominated as a career champion.

“Guiding students toward success—both in their academic programs and their future careers—is at the heart of my work as a faculty advisor,” Cosler said. “Over the years, I’ve had the privilege of mentoring not only my own advisees but also students who seek my guidance, whether they’re part of organizations I advise or classes I teach. Supporting students in this way truly is one of the most rewarding aspects of academia. Few things are as impactful as shaping a young person’s future, and I’ve been fortunate to do so for many years across multiple institutions. This recognition is a true honor, affirming the meaningful connections and positive influence I strive to provide.”

P3 Pharmacy Student Jason Oppong shared the following reflection in their nomination about why Cosler was his Career Champion: “Dr. Cosler is an amazing professor and mentor at the Binghamton School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences. He has always showed me that he cares about my well-being and success. He has been a big help for me in my future career development. He makes time to meet with me and pushes me towards success.”