Pharmacy Residency Program

• Requirements
• Department of Pharmacy Information
• Meet Our Team

 

Requirements

• Completion of application materials
• Graduate of an ACPE-accredited College of Pharmacy
• Eligibility for licensure to practice pharmacy in the State of North Carolina

 

Interested applicants should submit the following items no later than Dec. 31.

 

• Letter of interest
• Curriculum Vitae
• Three letters of recommendation
• Academic transcript
• FirstHealth of the Carolinas application, which can be found here

 

All application materials, other than the FirstHealth online application, should be submitted via PhORCAS. For questions regarding the residency program, please contact Drew Kessell, clinical director of pharmacy, at akessell@firsthealth.org.

 

Salary/Benefits 

• Approximately $45 000 salary
• Benefits package equivalent to full-time employee with FirstHealth of the Carolinas
• Travel allowances for professional meetings
• ASHP Midyear Clinical Meeting (December)
• Southeastern Regional Residency Conference (April)

 

Service/Staffing

• Staff every fourth weekend
• Work one of two summer holidays (Memorial Day or Labor Day)
• Work one of two winter holidays (Thanksgiving or Christmas) 

 

Residency Rotations

Required

• Orientation (2 months)
• General inpatient medicine (2 months)
• Critical care (2 months)
• Emergency Medicine (2 months)
• Antimicrobial Stewardship (one month)
• Pharmacy Practice Management (longitudinal) - includes PN&T Committee, Medication Safety Committee and IRB Committee
• Pharmacy Practice (longitudinal)
• Education (longitudinal)

Electives

• Oncology
• Infectious Disease
• Pharmacy Administration
• Pharmacy Information Systems
• Acute Care Transitions
• Pharmacy Operations
• Additional elective learning experiences may be developed based on resident interest and preceptor availability.

Department of Pharmacy Information

Personnel

• 31 Pharmacists (including management)
• 28 Pharmacy Technicians
• 1 Automation technician 1 Information Systems Analyst (pharmacist)
• 1 CPOE Specialist (pharmacist)

Operational Services

• Centralized unit-dose Robot-Rx technology
• Automated dispensing cabinets (Omnicell) house-wide
• Computerized Physician Order Entry
• Bedside Medication Administration
• USP <797> compliant IV clean room
• TUG delivery robots
• After-hour order entry to other FHC hospitals (Richmond Memorial Montgomery Memorial, Hoke Campus)
• Outpatient pharmacy serving patients and employees
• Sterile compound preparation utilizes image capture and barcode scanning

Clinical Services

• Antimicrobial stewardship and management
• Automatic renal dosing for antibiotics
• Pharmacokinetic services
• Anticoagulation management for heparin, LMWH and warfarin
• TPN/Electrolyte monitoring
• Critical care rounds with Hospitalists
• Multi-disciplinary rounds: critical care, medicine

 

Meet Our Team 

Drew Kessell, PharmD, MBA, MS
Residency Program Director

Dr. Drew Kessell began his academic training at Davidson College. After completing the prerequisites for pharmacy school, he enrolled at Campbell University. Dr. Kessell graduated in 2007 from Campbell University with a Doctor of Pharmacy degree and a Master of Business Administration degree. Wishing to continue his didactic management and leadership training while expanding his clinical experiences, Dr. Kessell completed a two-year residency program at Riverside Methodist Hospital in Columbus, Ohio. In conjunction with completion of his residency, Dr. Kessell also completed a Master of Science in Health-Systems Pharmacy Administration from the Ohio State University.

Currently, Dr. Kessell is the Clinical Director of Pharmacy at FirstHealth Moore Regional Hospital in Pinehurst, NC.  In addition, he serves as a preceptor for IPPE and APPE students from several schools of pharmacy in North and South Carolina. He also serves as the Residency Program Director for Moore Regional’s PGY-1 pharmacy residency program.  

 

Wes Cowell, PharmD
Administrative Director

Wes is a native of Nashville, Tennessee. After completing pre-pharmacy requirements at Middle Tennessee State University, he pursued his PharmD degree at the University of Tennessee College of Pharmacy in Memphis. His professional career started at Owen Healthcare, a hospital pharmacy management company, where he trained in pharmacy administration. In 1995, Wes became director of pharmacy at Baptist Health Care's Atmore Community Hospital near Pensacola, Florida. He subsequently transferred as both pharmacy director and clinical pharmacy manager in and around Tampa. He joined BayCare Health System in 1999 as clinical pharmacy manager for South Florida Baptist Hospital. As a member of the Florida Society of Health-System Pharmacists, Wes served two terms as president of the Southwest Florida Society of Health-System Pharmacists, a regional chapter of FSHP, in the early 2000s.

Wes joined FirstHealth of the Carolinas in 2008 as pharmacy director and, subsequently, administrative director in 2009. His current responsibilities at FirstHealth include pharmacy, respiratory care, sleep laboratories, pulmonary rehabilitation and neurodiagnostics. His professional interests include legal and regulatory advocacy surrounding professional pharmacy practice standards and the pharmaceutical supply chain.

He is a past chair of Premier Inc.’s Pharmacy Affairs Subcommittee and remains active in their Government Affairs Network. His involvement in the residency program includes mentoring and participating in longitudinal rotations, pharmacy administration topic discussions and regular meetings with the residents to review their progress and developing interests. Pharmacy practice residents also participate in FirstHealth's monthly Pharmacy Administration Team meetings. 

Matt Bamber, PharmD, MBA, BCCCP

Dr. Matthew Bamber began his academic training at Western New England University in Springfield, Massachusetts. After completing his prerequisites for pharmacy school, he completed his Doctor of Pharmacy degree at Palm Beach Atlantic University in West Palm Beach, Florida. Post-graduation he continued his education by completing a Master of Business Administration degree at Western New England University while working as a pharmacist. Desiring to grow in his clinical pharmacy background Dr. Bamber went on to complete a PGY-1 Pharmacy Practice Residency at Sentara Healthcare in Virginia Beach, Virginia and a PGY-2 Critical Care residency at Orlando Heath in Orlando, Florida.

Currently, Dr. Bamber serves as a preceptor for the Emergency Medicine residency rotation and as well as an elective Emergency Medicine rotation for APPE students from local pharmacy schools. In addition, he serves as the Residency Program Coordinator for the PGY-1 Pharmacy Practice Residency at FirstHealth.

Dr. Bamber enjoys spending time with family and friends, serving at church, reading, working out, playing sports, serving on international medical missions, and working as a part time real estate agent and investor.

 

Jim Beaty, PharmD

Originally from Florida, Jim moved to North Carolina in 1992 to attend Campbell University.  Upon completion of pharmacy school, he completed a pharmacy practice residency at Gaston Memorial Hospital (currently Caromont Regional Hospital) near Charlotte, and joined FirstHealth Moore Regional Hospital in 1999. 

Jim spent his first eight years at FirstHealth as a clinical staff pharmacist.  In 2007 he transitioned into an Associate Director role where he is primarily responsible for inpatient pharmacy operations.  He is a preceptor for Campbell University pharmacy students, and precepts the practice management residency rotation as well as the administration and operations electives.

 

Jennifer Campbell, PharmD, BCPS

Dr. Jennifer Campbell began her academic training at The University of Arizona where she earned her B.S. in Health Sciences with minors in Chemistry and Business.  After completing her undergraduate training, she worked for McKesson Specialty helping indigent patients gain access to medications.  Wishing to continue her education, Dr. Campbell enrolled at UNC Eshelman School of Pharmacy and graduated in 2011 with a Doctorate in Pharmacy.  She went on to complete a PGY1 Pharmacy Practice Residency at FirstHealth of the Carolinas.

Dr. Campbell is a Clinical Staff Pharmacist at FirstHealth Moore Regional Hospital.  She is currently serving as a preceptor for the PGY1 General Medicine rotation as well as the Longitudinal Education rotation.

Dr. Campbell's personal interests include indoor cycling, running, and being a mother of two high-energy boys.

 

Heather Gibson, PharmD, BCPS, BCIDP

Dr. Heather Gibson began her academic career at Colorado School of Mines where she earned her B.S. in Chemical Engineering with a minor in Public Affairs.  After working several years in the engineering field, her desire to work in healthcare led her to enroll at Mercer University College of Pharmacy where she received a Doctorate of Pharmacy in 2011.  After graduation, she completed a PGY1 Pharmacy Practice Residency at FirstHealth of the Carolinas Moore Regional Hospital.  She is board certified in both pharmacotherapy and infectious diseases and has completed a certificate in Antimicrobial Stewardship through the Society of Infectious Disease Pharmacists.  

After completion of her residency, Dr. Gibson worked as a clinical pharmacist at FirstHealth Moore Regional Hospital for 5 years.  During this time she also cross trained in the emergency department and outpatient oncology.  In January of 2017, she took the new position of Antimicrobial Stewardship Pharmacist at FirstHealth where she currently remains.  

Dr. Gibson has previously served as an APPE preceptor for UNC School of Pharmacy.  At FirstHealth, she serves as preceptor for the PGY1 Antimicrobial Stewardship rotation, the Longitudinal Education rotation, the Practice-Based Project rotation, and the Infectious Diseases elective. 

Dr. Gibson's personal interests include all things bugs and drugs, reading, travelling, and spending time with her husband and two daughters.  

 

Andrew Krupp, PharmD, BCPS

Dr. Andrew Krupp began his academic training at North Carolina State University where he earned his B.S. in microbiology with a minor in genetics. Upon graduation, Dr. Krupp enrolled at the University of North Carolina's Eshelman School of Pharmacy where he earned his Doctor of Pharmacy degree in 2012. Dr. Krupp continued his training by completing a PGY-1 residency at FirstHealth Moore Regional Hospital, where he eventually stayed on as a Clinical Pharmacist, supervisor and preceptor for clinical care.

Currently, Dr. Krupp is the Assistant Director of Outpatient Pharmacy. His special interests include infectious diseases, oncology, critical care, administration and precepting.

Dr. Krupp's personal interests include traveling, gaming, reading, exploring national parks and the lifelong study of karate.

 

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Bill Mang, PharmD, BCPS

Dr. Bill Mang began his academic training at the State University of New York College at Geneseo where he earned his B.S in Biology with a concentration in Biotechnology. After completing his undergraduate training, he worked in pre-clinical oncology research at Cyclis Pharmaceuticals and ArQule Biomedical Institute in Massachusetts. Following this, Dr. Mang enrolled at UNC Eshelman School of Pharmacy and earned his Doctor of Pharmacy degree in 2009.

Dr. Mang is a Pharmacy Supervisor, preceptor for the General Medicine practice experience and Pharmacy Practice experience, and Clinical Pharmacist. He precepts APPE students from UNC Eshelman School of Pharmacy. Dr. Mang is also a strong supporter of community health and serves on the local county Board of Health. 

Dr. Mang’s interests include entering sweepstakes, reading, running, listening to live music, and spending time with friends and family.

 

Thom Morris, PharmD

Thom Morris graduated from the University of North Carolina in 1990 with a BS in Pharmacy. During his final internships he was awarded the Smithkline Beecham award for excellence in pharmacy practice. Initially he worked at Carolinas Medical Center in Charlotte. During those nine years he gained clinical pharmacist experience with a concentration in IV therapy and oncology.  He transferred to FirstHealth in 2001 and practiced as a clinical pharmacist in the inpatient setting until 2011. Wanting to advance his role as a leader and gain management experience he accepted a position at the Outpatient Cancer Center Pharmacy as manager. This position is challenging and he enjoys sharing the experience with students and residents. He currently offers an elective rotation in Oncology. His goal is to educate and open opportunities for those interested in the field of oncology.

His personal interests include fishing on the Outer Banks of North Carolina, gaming, movies and travel to domestic or international destinations with his family.

 

Christina Thurber, PharmD, BCPS

Dr. Christina Thurber attended Ohio Northern University's Raabe College of Pharmacy, where she received her Doctor of Pharmacy in 2013.  After graduation, she continued her training by completing a PGY1 Pharmacy Practice residency at St. Rita's Medical Center in Lima, Ohio. She then decided it was time for a break from the cold and snow and headed to North Carolina to pursue a career as a clinical pharmacist in the hospital setting. 

Currently, Dr. Thurber is a clinical staff pharmacist at FirstHealth Moore Regional Hospital in Pinehurst. She serves as a preceptor for the critical care rotation of the PGY1 Residency program. Dr. Thurber also assists in precepting the education rotation. Additionally, she coordinates the student rotations at FirstHealth and helps precept the students from local schools of pharmacy. Her areas of interest include critical care, antimicrobial stewardship and precepting residents and students. Dr. Thurber enjoys watching each group of residents become independent, confident clinicians and playing a role in their growth. 

Her personal interests include reading psychological thrillers and mystery novels, binging documentaries on Hulu and Netflix, spending time by the pool and walking her black lab, Charlee.

 

Darla Gonzalez, PharmD, BCPS

Prior to college, Darla served in the Army followed by working as a full-time pharmacy technician for two years. She then began her academic career at Ohio State University. In 2010, she completed her Doctor of Pharmacy Degree at The University of Washington in Seattle. Darla started her career as a clinical pharmacist at Multicare Health System in Tacoma, Washington where she had worked as an intern for three years. 

After moving to North Carolina in 2012, Darla started at Moore Regional as a Clinical Pharmacist in addition to staffing at the First Health Outpatient Pharmacy as needed. She became BCPS certified in the Fall of 2016. In early 2017, she was cross-trained in the First Health Outpatient Cancer Center, where she now staffs part-time in addition to working in the inpatient pharmacy. Darla has always enjoyed teaching, and she finds precepting pharmacy students and residents particularly rewarding as it allows her to continue learning. Currently, she is serving as a preceptor in training for the education learning experience.

Darla is a military wife and has two children. In her spare time she loves being outdoors, reading, gardening, traveling and trying new recipe ideas.

 

Bess Johnson, PharmD

Dr. Bess Johnson began her academic training at The University of North Carolina at Wilmington where she completed 2.5 years of the pre-pharmacy curriculum.  Knowing from a young age she wished to pursue a career in pharmacy, she then enrolled at Wingate University's School of Pharmacy and earned her Doctor of Pharmacy degree in 2015.  Dr. Johnson continued her training by completing a PGY-1 residency at FirstHealth Moore Regional Hospital.

Dr. Johnson is a Clinical Staff Pharmacist at FirstHealth Moore Regional Hospital.  She is currently serving as a preceptor in training for the Pharmacy Practice experience of the PGY1 residency program.

Dr. Johnson's personal interests include shopping, vacationing, and being with her husband and daughter.

Jenny Gooch, PharmD, BCPS

Dr. Jenny Gooch began her academic training at Wake Forest University where she earned her B.S. in Biology with minors in Chemistry and Psychology.  Before starting pharmacy school, she began working at FirstHealth as a pharmacy technician and quickly transitioned into a pharmacy intern once school began. Dr. Gooch continued working at FirstHealth throughout pharmacy school and went on to complete a PGY1 Pharmacy Practice Residency at FirstHealth after graduating from Wingate University School of Pharmacy in 2016.  

Dr. Gooch is a Clinical Staff Pharmacist at FirstHealth Moore Regional Hospital.  She is currently serving as a preceptor in training for the General Medicine practice experience of the PGY1 residency program and recently became BCPS certified. Dr. Gooch also works as needed at a local independent pharmacy to maintain her outpatient pharmacy practice skill set.

Dr. Gooch's personal interests include being a mother to her young son and daughter, reality television and Dunkin' coffee.

 

John Norris, PharmD, BCPS, BCCCP

John began his pre-pharmacy education at Campbell University. After two years of undergraduate education, he attended Campbell University's College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences' Doctor of Pharmacy program, graduating in 2016. Following completion, he continued his clinical training by completing a PGY-1 residency at FirstHealth Moore Regional Hospital. John worked as a staff/clinical pharmacist at Moore Regional prior to accepting his current position as clinical pharmacist dedicated to the emergency department.

In addition, he serves as co-preceptor of the Longitudinal Education and Emergency Medicine PGY-1 Residency Rotations. His clinical interests include emergency medicine, critical care, infectious diseases/antimicrobial stewardship, biostatistics, and teaching/precepting.

His personal interests include fitness, watching movies, gaming, reading, and traveling.

 

Our Current Residents

Dr. Brooke Prevette completed her pre-pharmacy education at Wingate University, and went on to attend Wingate University School of Pharmacy, where she earned her Doctor of Pharmacy degree in 2022.Upon completion of a PGY-1, she plans to pursue a career as a clinical pharmacist and obtain board certification. She hopes to precept students in her future. Brooke has special interests in cardiology, internal medicine, and emergency medicine.

In her spare time, she enjoys playing tennis, refinishing furniture and traveling to new places.

Kelsey Weber, PharmD

Dr. Kelsey Weber began her academic career at Valparaiso University in Northwest Indiana, where she earned her Bachelor of Science in Chemistry. She continued her education at Ferris State University College of Pharmacy in Grand Rapids, Michigan and earned her Doctor of Pharmacy degree in 2022.  

Prior to pursuing her PGY-1 residency, Kelsey served as a pharmacy intern at Walgreens Pharmacy for five years. She is interested in ambulatory care, infectious disease, and pediatrics. Upon completion of residency, Kelsey plans to become a Clinical Pharmacist Practitioner and obtain board certification. In her spare time, she enjoys playing tennis, traveling with her fiancé, hiking in the mountains and relaxing on the beach.

 

Colton Troxler, PharmD

Dr. Colton Troxler is a local native of Robbins, North Carolina and began his academic training by obtaining an Associate’s degree in Science at Sandhills Community College in 2016 before earning a Bachelor’s degree in Chemistry from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill in 2018. Most recently, he obtained his Doctorate of Pharmacy from High Point University’s Fred Wilson School of Pharmacy in 2022. In an effort to gain more experience and improve his abilities in clinical pharmacy, Dr. Troxler decided to pursue a PGY-1 residency at FirstHealth Moore Regional Hospital.

Dr. Toxler’s areas of practice interest includes ambulatory care, behavioral health, infectious disease, and internal medicine. Upon completion of a PGY-1 residency, he plans to obtain additional licensure and a place of employment that allows for enhanced patient care and ample opportunities for both professional and personal growth.

His personal interests include golfing, video games, collecting items such as baseball cards and vintage pharmacy products, and spending time on weekends with close friends and family.