Supporting Student Pharmacists Impacted by the Coronavirus Outbreak
![Dr. John Plachetka](https://pharmacy.uic.edu/wp-content/uploads/sites/138/2020/05/Plachetka-Header-2.jpg)
The COVID-19 pandemic is both a health crisis and an economic crisis. For many pharmacy students, the outbreak has created enormous financial stress because of the loss of employment, additional demands associated with child or family responsibilities, or mounting student loans. These can threaten their ability to continue their education and even meet basic needs.
Thankfully, the UIC College of Pharmacy has alumni and friends like John Plachetka, BS ’76, PharmD, and his wife, Clare. Recognizing the situation, the Plachetkas reached out to the College to offer their support. Their gift will provide 50 scholarships over the next year to students who are facing immediate financial hardships.
When he heard about the intentions of John and Clare Plachetka, Glen Schumock, Dean of the College of Pharmacy, was not surprised. “Some people just do the right thing. They see a need, and they want to help.” He went on to note, “the Plachetka’s gift will impact not just students, but their families, and the College overall. It is so important.”
The UIC College of Pharmacy is the top-ranked school of pharmacy in Illinois and #7 in the country. Approximately 925 students are enrolled in our Master’s and Doctoral programs that include our MS in Forensic Sciences, MS in Forensic Toxicology, MS in Comparative Effectiveness Research, as well as doctorates in both Pharmacy and the Pharmaceutical Sciences.
To assist students who are facing financial hardship and burdens due to unexpected challenges created by COVID-19, please consider a gift to the college’s General Scholarship Fund -or- Dean’s Fund for Excellence. To discuss endowed scholarships or to contribute to our IGNITE Campaign, please contact Associate Dean of Advancement Ben Stickan at (312) 639-9069 or bstickan@uic.edu.