BALTIMORE – A Notre Dame of Maryland University pharmacy professor focused on ensuring student success was named the 2023-24 Mullan Distinguished Teacher, the University’s highest faculty honor.
Dr. James Culhane joined NDMU as a professor and founding chair of the Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences in 2008, when the School of Pharmacy was first established. In 2019, he was appointed as assistant dean of student academic success programs. Dr. Culhane developed and coordinates RxReady, which helps smooth students’ transition into the Doctor of Pharmacy program and includes academic coaching, peer tutoring, and intensive workshops designed to prepare students for success. He also facilitates student success workshops at schools of pharmacy across the country and is the author of the recently published book, Evidence-Based Learning Strategies for Student Pharmacists.
Dr. Martha Walker, NDMU provost and vice president of academic affairs, said Dr. Culhane exemplifies “exceptional teaching and service to the mission” and displays a “concern for students’ intellectual and emotional well-being.”
“Colleagues and students alike who endorse this year's Mullan Award recipient both learn from the innovative pedagogy that characterizes the approach in the classroom,” said Dr. Walker. “Students praise the connection between course principles and their applicability in practice.”
In addition to his work at Notre Dame, Dr. Culhane is an active member of the American Association of Colleges of Pharmacy and has served as a volunteer with the Accreditation Council on Pharmacy Education since 2012, participating in site visits as part of an accreditation team at colleges and universities around the nation. He is also a member of the editorial board of five refereed journals, including the American Journal of Pharmaceutical Education and Currents in Pharmacy Teaching and Learning.
The Mullan Distinguished Teacher Award, presented annually at commencement, recognizes excellence in teaching and contributions to NDMU and the broader community. Every year since 1976, the University has selected one faculty member for the award, with nominations made by NDMU administrators, faculty, and students.
Established in 1895, Notre Dame of Maryland University (NDMU) is a private, Catholic institution in Baltimore, Maryland, with the mission to educate leaders to transform the world. Notre Dame has been named one of the best "Regional Universities North" by U.S. News & World Report.
