For anyone who has crossed paths with Leslie Standridge, the news comes as no surprise. Known for her enthusiasm, genuine care for students, and unwavering commitment to the College of Pharmacy community, Leslie has been named the Employee of the Year.
The honor recognizes not only her exceptional work as an Academic Advisor for the Bachelor of Science in Pharmaceutical and Biomedical Sciences (BSPBS) program, but also the lasting impact she has made on the lives of students, faculty, and staff.
“Leslie has the remarkable ability to make people feel seen, supported, and valued,” said Dr. Duc Do, the College’s Associate Dean of Student Affairs and Enrollment Management. “Whether she’s helping a student navigate a difficult semester or collaborating with colleagues on a new initiative, she approaches every interaction with positivity, professionalism, laser focus, and a sincere desire to help others succeed.”
For Leslie, student success has always been at the heart of her work. Employed at UGA since 2005 and a staff member at the College of Pharmacy since 2013, Leslie assumed the role as Academic Advisor for the BSPBS program in 2018. She guides undergraduate students through important academic and professional decisions, helping them navigate the challenges of the program while encouraging them to pursue their goals with confidence.
Her impact, however, extends far beyond course schedules and degree requirements. Students often describe Leslie as a trusted mentor, advocate, and source of encouragement. Her office has become a place where students know they can find answers, support, and a friendly face when they need it most.
Grant Gibbs, a recent graduate of the BSPBS program, underscored this sentiment. “Ms. Standridge was an incredible advisor throughout my time at UGA, and I truly appreciate how supportive, approachable, and invested she always was in my success. Knowing I could reach out and feel heard made a significant difference in my experience at UGA. She genuinely cares about her students, and it shows in the time she takes to listen, explain options clearly, and make herself available whenever questions or concerns arise.”
Her colleagues point to Leslie’s energy and willingness to help as qualities that make her an invaluable member of the College of Pharmacy team. “Whether organizing student-focused initiatives, supporting campus events, or simply brightening someone’s day, Leslie consistently demonstrates the spirit of service and excellence that defines our college,” said Dr. Deborah Elder, Assistant Department Head for Undergraduate and Professional Education. “She has demonstrated creativity, resilience, and innovation in overcoming barriers to effective student advice. Her exceptional academic support routinely extends beyond regular working hours, with numerous instances of her going above and beyond to assist students during urgent or unforeseen circumstances.”
For Leslie, the recognition is meaningful, but the relationships she has built along the way remain the most rewarding part of her career. “I enjoy my job, and I take pride in it. Just as important, is my love for my PharmDawg community,” said Leslie. “I always strive to make the students feel welcome and a part of our community, too. Receiving this recognition means that what I do has made a difference at some point to someone, and that is extremely rewarding.”
As passionate as she is about her work, Leslie is just as intent about her love for music. Though she enjoys all genres of music, she is partial to rock legends of the ’70s and ’80s, such as Shinedown, Godsmack, and Bret Michaels. Leslie’s favorite band is rock and roll legend KISS, and she has seen them in person more than 25 times! She attends as many local concerts as possible, and she also enjoys traveling to music festivals, as well as the occasional rock fan music cruises. Leslie and her husband, Dwight, are the proud parents of two fur baby canines, Archie and Briggs. The couple is heavily involved in the local charity “Bulldogs Battling Breast Cancer,” which has raised more than $3 million for breast cancer services in the local area.
As the College of Pharmacy celebrates this year’s Employee of the Year, one thing is clear: Leslie Standridge’s impact reaches far beyond her job title. Through her dedication, positivity, and passion for helping others, she embodies the very best of the PharmDawg community.
