Samford Pharmacy’s new graduate recruiter is making the grade.

As a former public educator, Katie Rowland Ellis enjoys seeing students succeed—a quality uniquely suited to her role at Samford University’s McWhorter School of Pharmacy, wherein she’ll attend recruitment events, communicate with prospective students and assist them through the graduate school search process.

“What I always found most rewarding as an educator was watching students grow into their personalities through challenges and victories,” said Ellis, who taught for more than 12 years at three different schools, including a charter school she helped establish. “I loved getting to build relationships with my students and athletes and watching them work hard to achieve their goals. I always thought of myself as part teacher, part counselor and part cheerleader.”

Ellis feels her experience has equipped her to listen to students’ needs and build relationships.

“I like to understand their story, so I can help guide them to the path that works best for them,” she said. “Being a teacher also taught me how to pivot quickly, to think on my feet and to talk to anyone about anything.”

Ellis chalks the latter up to the ever-curious nature of middle-schoolers.

“Nothing better prepares you than answering an average of 100 questions per day about any subject on the planet,” she said.

At McWhorter School of Pharmacy, however, Ellis looks forward to addressing the questions and concerns of prospective students, helping them arrive at an answer that will ultimately shape their future: “Yes to Samford.”

To contact Ellis, email kellis3@samford.edu or call 205-726-2008.