Upsher-Smith Laboratories, LLC has proudly declared Theresa Tolle, BSPharm, FAPhA, the owner of Bay Street Pharmacy in Sebastian, Florida, as the recipient of the 2023 Willard B. Simmons Independent Pharmacist of the Year award. The award presentation occurred on October 16 during the National Community Pharmacists Association (NCPA) Annual Convention in Orlando, Florida.
Tolle told Sebastian Daily she was grateful for her significant recognition last week. She also attributes her success to the diligent team at Bay Street Pharmacy, emphasizing their role in positively impacting the community. “I could not earn awards without an amazing team behind me,” she said.
This annual award, which Upsher-Smith has sponsored for 15 years alongside NCPA, recognizes pharmacists demonstrating notable leadership, dedication to the community, and commitment to independent pharmacy. The accolade honors the legacy of Willard B. Simmons, a past executive secretary of what was once called the National Association of Retail Druggists and a dedicated trustee of the NCPA Foundation.
Bay Street Pharmacy, managed by Tolle and her spouse Joe since 1999, provides many services like immunizations and testing, diabetes education, compounding, medication therapy management (MTM), and pharmacogenomics. The pharmacy also serves as a postgraduate year one (PGY1) community-based residency program site affiliated with the University of Florida College of Pharmacy.
Tolle’s contributions extend well beyond her pharmacy. She’s held prominent positions in numerous pharmacy associations across different scales, including the Florida Pharmacy Association and the American Pharmacists Association. An active member of NCPA committees, Tolle plays a pivotal role in developing clinically integrated networks for independent pharmacies, particularly in her role as the Lead Luminary of CPESN Florida.
Within her locality, she chairs the Board of Trustees at Sebastian River Medical Center and actively supports the Substance Abuse Free Indian River initiative. Tolle’s impressive career boasts accolades like the 2023 Kappa Epsilon Fraternity KE/Merck Vanguard Leadership Award and the 2018 NCPA Preceptor of the Year.
“Upsher-Smith is honored to partner with NCPA in recognizing the invaluable contributions of independent pharmacists and extends our warmest congratulations to Theresa Tolle, whose dedication to her profession, community, and, most importantly, her patients, serves as an inspiring example for pharmacists nationwide,” said Rich Fisher, President and COO, Upsher-Smith.
NCPA President Hugh Chancy, RPh, added, “Theresa’s remarkable achievements exemplify the essence of independent pharmacy where pharmacists like Theresa make a profound difference in the lives of their patients and communities. Theresa’s commitment to patient care and professional excellence is a source of inspiration for pharmacists and makes her a deserving recipient of this year’s Willard B. Simmons Independent Pharmacist of the Year Award. We congratulate Theresa on this well-deserved honor and thank Upsher-Smith for its continued support in highlighting the outstanding work of community pharmacists.”
About Bay Street Pharmacy
Founded in 1984, Bay Street Pharmacy is a family-owned establishment rooted in its second-generation pharmacist lineage. Catering to the Northern Indian River and the southern Brevard regions, their primary focus is providing unparalleled care to our patients. Living by their motto, “Where caring people care for you,” their exceptional team offers personalized attention to every patient.
Their pharmacists provide comprehensive service and are always available to answer your questions and advise on prescription and over-the-counter items.
Tolle cherishes her role as a pharmacist and owner of Bay Street Pharmacy, valuing the meaningful interactions and time she can spend understanding and enhancing her patients’ health. Alongside her husband, Joe, they’re sincerely grateful for the divine opportunity they’ve been given to serve their community.
For more information about Bay Street Pharmacy, call 772-589-2043 or visit them at www.baystreetpharmacy.com.
Upsher-Smith
Upsher-Smith Laboratories, LLC, a reputable U.S. pharmaceutical firm, prioritizes the well-being of patients with its commitment to high-caliber products and growth. They provide a broad range of brand and generic products backed by their notable service and industry connections. Discover more at www.upsher-smith.com.
National Community Pharmacists Association (NCPA)
Established in 1898, the National Community Pharmacists Association champions community pharmacists. Representing over 19,400 pharmacies nationwide, these community pharmacies stand as some of America’s most accessible healthcare providers. More information is available at www.ncpa.org.
