Empowering the Next Generation of PAs, Honoring the Legacy of Joyce Nichols

The Joyce Nichols Memorial Scholarship, awarded by the Physician Associate Foundation (PAF), is open to Black or African American PA students who demonstrate passion for the PA profession, commitment to serving their communities and future patients, and exceptional leadership potential. Read more about the five students who received the scholarship in 2024 and how it has helped shape their journeys.

February 3, 2025

PA in Rural Kentucky Promotes the Profession Both Locally and Internationally

Onieta Stewart, DMSc, PA-C, is a critical care physician associate at UK St. Claire, a hospital that serves an expansive, rural area in eastern Kentucky. In addition to her work as the assistant director of the hospital’s residency program as well as a volunteer faculty for the University of Kentucky PA program, Stewart also visits other countries, such as Germany and the Netherlands, to educate medical professionals on evolving roles of PAs.

January 27, 2025

PA Bob Thomann Launched “BrightBot” to Help Prevent the Spread of Infections

During the COVID-19 pandemic, physician associate and engineer Bob Thomann set out to find a better way to sanitize medical equipment and hospital rooms. With innovation and patients in mind, he designed “BrightBots,” affordable and easy-to-use portable UVC lights that will kill germs and bacteria in a matter of minutes. His clients include hospitals, nursing homes, and dental offices.

January 24, 2025

Major Makeda Tiye Young, an Integral Leader During Hurricane Helene

A few months after graduating from her PA program, National Guardsman Makeda Tiye Young, PA-C, was assigned to Hurricane Helene recovery efforts for the Western Branch in North Carolina. The experience inspired her to take on similar leadership roles, both as an officer and a physician associate.

January 15, 2025

AAPA, PAF to Lead Impactful Projects in 2025

AAPA and the Physician Associate Foundation (PAF) are working on several key projects aimed at improving healthcare and addressing health disparities across the country. These projects have wide-reaching impacts – from improving colorectal cancer screening rates and mental healthcare services in schools, to working to diversify the PA profession.

January 9, 2025

Michigan PA Helps Brighten the Holidays for Local Foster Children

PA and preceptor Kara Szczomak gives back in both her personal and professional life. Each year, she and her family have a tradition of “adopting” two foster children and donating presents and essentials to give them a special holiday season.

December 19, 2024

Nonprofit Director and Future PA Delivers Critical Care During Natural Disaster

PA student Youssef Motii led a fleet of mobile vehicles across Florida in response to the compounding devastation produced by Hurricanes Helene and Milton. With his team at Oceana Community Health, he was able to provide care and resources to hundreds of residents affected by these catastrophic storms.

December 12, 2024

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