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Four Pharmacy Leaders Recognized as Top Women in Health, Wellness & Beauty

Nov. 21, 2023

Drug Store News named 4 of our associates to its annual Top Women in Health, Wellness & Beauty list for 2023. Our honorees in the Rising Stars category are Caitlin Connolly, Debbie Carney and Kimberly Watson. Julie Lalicon is recognized with the Business Excellence Award. 

The Rising Star Award recognizes women considered up-and-coming leaders in their profession who have had significant accomplishments and/or achieved notable success. 

The Business Excellence Award honors women who have demonstrated achievement, growth and success. A recipient knows the importance of innovative ideas, education, decision-making, mentoring and community service.

“We are honored to see our leaders recognized for their contributions to their team, Publix and the industry as a whole,” said Vice President of Pharmacy Dain Rusk. “We know Caitlin, Debbie, Kimberly and Julie will continue their incredible work supporting their communities.”

Rising Star Award honorees

Caitlin Connolly, Manager of Pharmacy Contracting

Caitlin contributes to many business areas, including managed care third-party contracting, billing and data analytics. She serves as a subject matter expert for contract data. Caitlin helps our customers and associates by leading her team’s COVID-19 vaccine billing efforts. She served her associates by representing Publix at the National Council for Prescription Drug Programs. Caitlin leads by example, sharing her knowledge with associates.

Debbie Carney, Manager of Central Processing

Debbie is dedicated to ensuring our customers receive the service they deserve. She develops and implements strategies that enable associates to provide premier service in the pharmacy. Debbie also oversees a team of managers and pharmacists who help associates expedite and enhance patient care. She effectively inspires her team members to reach their goals and future career aspirations. Debbie is a poised leader when faced with stressful situations, and her attention to detail helps her department and Publix provide stellar service. 

Kimberly Watson, Senior Manager of Pharmacy Procurement

As the senior manager of pharmacy procurement, Kimberly plays a unique role in our pharmaceutical operations. During the COVID-19 vaccination effort, she directed the process that ensured we had sufficient supplies. Kimberly plays a vital part in developing strategies that allow for the acquisition and timely delivery of medications. She gained experience in-store as a pharmacist, where her commitment to customer service began. As she has taken on new and challenging roles, Kimberly continues championing premier service. She is an innovative leader who is committed to improving our company.      

Business Excellence Award honoree

Julie Lalicon, Senior Manager of Specialty Pharmacy

Julie is responsible for developing and executing strategies to grow our specialty pharmacy business. She also drives operational success by developing and implementing new initiatives while monitoring existing ones. Julie is a dedicated manager, often learning new skills beyond what is required. She is a proven leader, offering her wealth of knowledge to her team. Julie was recognized with the Rising Star Award in 2022 by Drug Store News for Top Women in Health, Wellness & Beauty.

Learn more about the recipients of this year's Top Women in Health, Wellness & Beauty Award.