The College of Pharmacy held its annual Staff Appreciation Luncheon during which staff members were recognized for their years of employment at the college. Sam Cook, Chris Duran and Guisheng Zhang were recognized for five years of service; Dakeisha Knowles was recognized for 10 years of service; Charlene Garrett and Sarah Jones were recognized for 15 years and Brad Brown was recognized for 20 years.

At the luncheon, the 2016 Employee of the Year was announced and awarded to Arica Barfield, administrative associate at the College of Pharmacy’s Albany campus. Arica has been with the college since 2007 and is fondly known as the “campus mom” among students.

“It is a known fact that Ms. Arica acts as the adhesive that holds the Southwest Georgia UGA campus together and maintains its functionality,” said a nominator. “As one of the longest standing members of the campus, she has made significant contributions to its growth and success.”

Arica has a 12-year-old son, Christopher, and 4-year-old daughter, Lauren, and is active at Second Mount Olive Baptist Church where she is a member of the choir and participates in numerous outreach activities. Congratulations, Arica!