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LAKELAND, Fla., Feb. 8, 2024 — Publix Pharmacy presented 14 pharmacy associates with the Rxcellence Award for excelling in customer service, performance, ownership and teamwork.  

“Our dedication to offering the premier level of care to our patients and their families sets us apart in the industry,” said Publix Vice President of Pharmacy Dain Rusk. “These recipients put people first and exceed our customers’ expectations. They consistently work to improve the customer and team experience, and I am extremely proud of their efforts.” 

2023 retail recipients 

  • Pharmacy Manager Jared Edwards, #1294, Auburn, Alabama, always emphasizes team service excellence to consistently exceed customers’ expectations. Jared excels at leading and developing his associates to help them be successful in their careers. 
  • Lead Immunizing Pharmacy Technician Molly Smith, #1726, Madison, Alabama, exemplifies customer service. She consistently sets a high standard by working seamlessly with her pharmacists to prioritize patient care. Molly is a previous Publix Gold Coin recipient. She focuses on knowing patients’ names and interacting with them every time they walk by the pharmacy, whether they pick up prescriptions or not. 
  • Pharmacy Manager Girgis Wahba, #1238, Smyrna, Tennessee, is the champion of his team’s positivity, which translates into high energy and enthusiasm. His team members’ upbeat and cheerful morale is evident in how they treat customers like royalty. 
  • Lead Immunizing Pharmacy Technician Collin Anderson, #1603, Denver, North Carolina, goes above and beyond for our customers, associates and Publix as a whole. Whether it’s claims, vaccinations or efficiency in our queues, Collin gives his all in everything he does. 
  • Pharmacy Manager Issa Khalil, #1430, Orlando, Florida, places his customers and associates at the center of operations, creating an environment that is magnetizing and a genuine pleasure to shop and work. 
  • Lead Immunizing Pharmacy Technician Shaye Mills, #727, Palatka, Florida, is committed to caring for each of her customers and has helped grow her new pharmacy, which has established itself as a trusted pharmacy in town. 
  • Pharmacy Manager Nick Cavis, #1004, Bradenton, Florida, is an example of what great leadership and teamwork can produce daily. Nick embraces challenges and implements new processes seamlessly. His team provides premier customer service by building new relationships within the community through off-site vaccination clinics. 
  • Lead Immunizing Pharmacy Technician Jessica James, #524, Lutz, Florida, is a role model to her peers and is always willing to lend a helping hand to others in need. She leads by example and approaches difficult situations head-on, with a positive attitude and a commitment to excellence. 
  • Pharmacy Manager Oliver Ruiz, #1393, Pompano Beach, Florida, demonstrates a positive attitude, attention to detail and the ability to build relationships with associates and customers. Oliver has fostered an atmosphere of positivity and endless possibilities, collaborating often with various pharmacists and technicians. 
  • Lead Immunizing Pharmacy Technician Dominique Hepburn-Elliott, #1014, Palm City, Florida, is known for going above and beyond to help her customers. She had an outstanding year orchestrating flu vaccine clinics. Dominique embraces additional technician responsibilities, and her positive attitude and smile are contagious.

2023 support recipients 

  • Manager of Patient Access Elizabeth Bautista, Orlando, Florida, advocates for patients, her team, the specialty pharmacy and Publix by always providing premier service and taking ownership. Elizabeth continuously motivates her team to maintain a positive attitude, especially when challenges arise. 
  • Central Fill Supervisor Holly Lehner, Orlando, Florida, demonstrates high levels of leadership and ownership by ensuring her team has the tools and knowledge needed to perform their work at the highest level. She builds trust and relationships with her team by demonstrating a positive, can-do attitude. 
  • Manager of Business Development Leila Blacking, Lakeland, Florida, distinguishes herself through unwavering determination, showcasing a relentless commitment to achieving goals. Leila’s project management skills ensure seamless execution, while her strategic judgment enables her to navigate complexities with finesse.  
  • Pharmacy Supervisor Augie Alvarado, Jacksonville Division, perpetuates the Publix culture. He leverages his extensive knowledge and commitment to Publix by mentoring his peers, providing valuable feedback on our processes and services, and developing his associates to be their best.