Professor Emeritus Joy Plein (Pharmacy) has been selected as the 2017 recipient of the UW-UWRA Distinguished Retiree Excellence in Community Service award.

Plein was chosen for her service and for the way she models a meaningful pathway of service in retirement. She has extended her commitment to her field of study and its future, involving herself far beyond typical post-retirement departmental roles.

During her pre-retirement career Joy Plein was a national pioneer in the field of geriatric pharmacy. Along with husband Elmer Plein and others she created what is now known as the Plein Certificate in Geriatric Pharmacy Practice at UW. Since retirement and still at age 91, her dedication to future pharmacists and continued excellence in geriatric pharmacy is unwavering.

• Joy has contributed freely of her time and energy to support UW students and alumni. For years she has served as the volunteer advisor for the UW Student Chapter of the American Society of Consultant Pharmacists (ASCP), a chapter recognized nationally for its active engagement.
• She has continued to mentor and inspire students and younger colleagues alike in their professional development, research, and service. They sing highest praises for her.
• Joy’s service in retirement extends to the community beyond UW. She has continued to support and staff pharmacy consultation programs in area retirement communities, where students are trained to research, assess and serve the health of residents. These residents, their families and the next generation of pharmacists all benefit and quality of life in retirement communities is enhanced.
• In retirement Joy has served on eight national professional committees, two state boards and six UW committees, all with a future focus on quality of life for older adults.

Joy Plein is known for her creative outreach and positive support as she continues to champion the next generation of pharmacists to optimize the health of older adults. UWRA is happy to congratulate her on this honor.