Thornton selected to SREB Doctoral scholars Program

Destini Thornton, a Harrison College of Pharmacy pharmaceutical sciences Ph.D. candidate in the medicinal chemistry option was selected to the Southern Regional Education Board (SREB)-State Doctoral Scholars Program. Thornton conducts research under Dr. Angela Calderón, Gilliland Professor in the Department of Drug Discovery and Development.

"Being selected for the SREB Dissertation Award means a lot to me because it provides opportunities that will help me grow as a future academic," said Thornton. "The mentoring, professional development and teaching preparation that come with the program will help me build the skills and connections needed for a successful career in STEM higher education."

States and institutions identify promising doctoral candidates who are admitted to programs of study on their own merits. The SREB-State Doctoral Scholars Program provides these doctoral students with financial support, leadership opportunities, networking events, and intensive professional development to help them finish their degrees and consider a career in academia. The tentative title of Thonrton’s dissertation is "Impact of Complementary Supplements on Drug Safety and Efficacy: Cardiovascular Toxicity from Açaí–Anticancer Interactions and Kratom-Induced Reduction in Antiretroviral Efficacy."

"The financial support is incredibly valuable during the final year of my dissertation," said Thornton. "It helps reduce some of the stress that often comes with funding challenges, allowing me to focus more fully on completing my research and finishing my degree strong."