MEAPA President, Kathleen Moneghan, becomes an Excellence in Advocacy Honoree

“Kathleen exemplifies that it means to be a volunteer leader — she is a tireless advocate on behalf of the PA profession”

September 28, 2026

During the 2026 Women in Government Relations Leadership & Advocacy Conference, Maine Academy of Physician Associates (MEAPA) President Kathleen Moneghan, DHA, MPAS, PA-C, was celebrated for making an impact in public policy and inspiring change in her community. She received the Excellence in Advocacy by a Volunteer Leader award.

This award recognizes non-paid volunteer leaders whose advocacy efforts create meaningful, lasting impact.

Under Moneghan’s leadership, Maine has advanced policies that have expanded access to care for patients, as well as improved the practice environment for PAs in the state, becoming the first state in the nation to achieve all three of AAPA’s national PA modernization initiatives. Over the last six years, Maine has changed the title of the profession from physician assistant to physician associate, removed the requirement for PAs to have a relationship with physicians, and joined the PA licensure compact.

“Kathleen exemplifies that it means to be a volunteer leader — she is a tireless advocate on behalf of the PA profession while also working multiple jobs, raising a family, and volunteering in her community,” said Meghan Pudeler, Director of State Advocacy and Outreach at AAPA. “Her advocacy efforts have advanced legislative and regulatory improvements that expand access to PA services for patients in the state of Maine — while also assisting and inspiring progress in states across the country. AAPA is fortunate to have a leader who brings such commitment, dedication, and purpose to advancing the PA profession and improving access to care.”

Moneghan has served on the MEAPA board since 2020 — currently serving as President since 2025 and previously serving as Government Affairs chair, education chair, treasurer, and vice president. Moneghan also serves on the AAPA Commission Government Relations and Practice Advancement, the AAPA Board-appointed Medical Liaison to the American College of Occupational and Environment Medicine, and as Legislative Director for PAs for Women’s Empowerment.

Recognition from Women in Government Relations reflects the impact volunteer leaders can have on shaping policy and advancing the PA profession nationwide. AAPA congratulates Moneghan on this well-deserved honor.

You May Also Like
PA Dishes Out a New Approach to Cutting Waste with Reusable Food Packaging System
Meet the 2026 recipients of the Michael Powe Leadership in Advocacy Scholarship
AAPA Recognizes Sheila Mauldin with Honorary PA Designation