2026 Outstanding Student Society Advances Community-Centered Care 

The Godsey-Matthews Student Society at Mercer University Demonstrates Service-Driven Leadership 

May 14, 2026

By Alex Morse

For many physician associate students, the decision to pursue the PA profession is rooted in a desire to serve others and improve access to quality healthcare. For students in AAPA’s 2026 Outstanding Student Society, that commitment extends far beyond the classroom. 

The Outstanding Student Society award recognizes service to the profession in the areas of public education and advocacy; public service and outreach; promotion of diversity; and professional involvement. Through community outreach and professional engagement, the PA student society at Mercer University supports the next generation of PAs and leaves a lasting impact on communities across Georgia. 

“The Godsey-Matthews Student Society is about giving students meaningful ways to engage with the community while being supported through the demands of PA school,” said Addison Stromberg, president of the student society. “Our cohort’s shared commitment to service, collaboration, and growth makes being part of this profession deeply rewarding.”   

In partnership with The Boyce L. Ansley School, which serves children who have experienced homelessness, PA students introduced elementary students to the PA profession through presentations and hands-on activities, like anatomy crafts and health-focused relay races. For many of these children, this was their first positive and personal interaction with healthcare providers. 

At the Mercer Science Spectacular event, PA students hosted an interactive tent where children and their families were encouraged to explore medical tools, ask questions, and learn about the PA profession.  “By combining service with a culture of encouragement, we help each other grow not just as clinicians, but as compassionate, community-minded healthcare providers,” Stromberg said. 

In partnership with the Grace Village Medical Clinic, the student society volunteers free medical care to uninsured and underserved patients in the surrounding community. Every week, without fail, PA students—along with a faculty member—visit the clinic and provide physical examinations, medication management, referrals to physical therapy, and coordination of additional healthcare resources. In addition to their service, the society also raised more than $7,000 to support clinic operations and expand access to care. 

Students also served at Lazarus Health Day, an annual outreach event for individuals experiencing homelessness in the Atlanta area. Working alongside interdisciplinary volunteers, students contributed to a dignity-centered environment while helping deliver essential medical services. 

“It’s easy to get lost in the material and forget the patients behind everything we’re working toward,” Stromberg said. “Volunteering and outreach events provide a reminder of why we are here and who we are working for, while also serving as motivation to keep pushing through the challenges of school.”  

In addition to participating in community events throughout the Atlanta area, the Godsey-Matthews Student Society makes a point to foster inclusive, patient-centered care. Through initiatives to strengthen language skills and immerse students in different cultures and faiths, they encourage reflection, cultural humility, and a deeper understanding of the diverse communities they serve. 

“Receiving this award is a huge honor and shows that the time and energy our society puts into volunteering and supporting each other does not go unnoticed,” Stromberg said. “It inspires us to continue growing into compassionate healthcare providers who make a difference in our community.” 

Alex Morse is AAPA’s Communications Manager. She can be reached at [email protected].