Oct. 24, 2024 — Physician assistants are integral teammates who work alongside doctors, nurses, and medical assistants to make a difference in the lives of thousands of patients over the course of their careers.

To celebrate the contributions of PAs across the University of Florida College of Medicine and UF Health, members of the UF School of PA Studies coordinated a week of events recognizing these professionals and PAs-in-training in coordination with National PA Week, held annually from Oct. 6-12. Events on campus and around Gainesville included games, shared meals, raffles, and more.

For the first time this year, six UF alumni also returned to mark the occasion with a lively panel discussion, attended by dozens of students. The panel provided an opportunity for students to connect with and seek advice from experienced graduates about the profession.

Rick Davis, PA ’82; Gary Gossman, PA ’82; Amy Haney, MPAS ’03; Mathew Walser, MPAS ’06; Katherine Walker, MPAS ’14; and Nathan Ordway, MPAS ’20, led discussions on topics ranging from career paths to navigating workplace dynamics.

“You can have it all — just not necessarily all at the same time,” Haney told the students, noting the importance of balancing life’s priorities.

Melissa Turley, PharmD, MPAS ’05, PA-C, interim director for the School of PA Studies, said PAs are essential to the health care system.

“PAs deliver compassionate care, innovation, and versatility with every patient they see,” she said. “During PA Week, we celebrate the incredible dedication and expertise of these professionals who make a real difference in patient lives. At the University of Florida School of PA Studies, we take this time to honor our amazing students, faculty, and alumni. Each one contributes to the legacy of excellence in health care that defines us. Together, we are shaping the future of medicine as part of the Gator Nation.”

UF School of PA Studies students attend a panel discussion with Florida PA alumni.