Kolesar Appointed Dean at University of Iowa College of Pharmacy

LEXINGTON, Ky. — The University of Kentucky College of Pharmacy (UKCOP) proudly announces that Jill Kolesar, PharmD, MS, BCPS, FCCP university research professor of Pharmacy Practice & Science, has been appointed as the next dean of the University of Iowa College of Pharmacy. Kolesar will assume her new role on July 15.

Kolesar’s tenure at UKCOP has been marked by transformative contributions. Her leadership and innovation as a University Research Professor have garnered widespread recognition. At the University of Kentucky Markey Cancer Center, she excelled in multiple roles, including Director of the Precision Medicine Center, Co-Chair of the Molecular Tumor Board, and Co-Leader of the Translational Oncology Program. These roles have significantly advanced the University’s cancer research efforts.

A pioneer in her field, Kolesar founded VesiCure Technologies through the NIH-funded I-RED Program, aimed at developing novel cell therapies. She recently became Chair of the Oncology Research Information Exchange Network (ORIEN) Steering Committee, driving collaborative cancer research nationwide. Her leadership was instrumental in launching the PRiMAL clinical trial, which assessed the impact of molecular tumor board reviews on cancer patient outcomes, particularly in underserved areas of Kentucky.

"While we will deeply miss Dr. Kolesar’s expertise, leadership, and dedication, I am excited for her as she begins this new chapter," said R. Kip Guy, Ph.D., dean at UKCOP. "The University of Iowa College of Pharmacy is gaining an exceptional leader whose innovative vision will undoubtedly drive their institution to new heights."

For more details, visit the University of Iowa’s announcement: https://bit.ly/3wL1Yhj