A Q&A with the new director of the UF School of PA Studies
Alumna Melissa Turley, Pharm.D., MPAS, PA-C, was named PA program director in April
May 13, 2025 — Melissa Turley, Pharm.D., MPAS ’05, PA-C, has been selected as the next director of the University of Florida College of Medicine’s School of Physician Assistant Studies.
A proud Gator alumna, Turley completed a joint degree program with the UF College of Pharmacy and the College of Medicine, earning her Doctor of Pharmacy and Master of Physician Assistant Studies degrees in 2005.
Experienced in pharmacy health care administration, electronic health records and quality assurance programs, Turley has practiced in various primary care settings. She returned to UF in 2013 as a PA with the UF Student Health Care Center before joining the School of PA Studies faculty in 2019.
At the School of PA Studies, Turley has served as a clinical assistant professor and the associate program director, focused on student success while also teaching and practicing in the UF Mobile Outreach Clinic. In honor of her dedication to learners, students in the PA Class of 2023 named her the Outstanding Academic Year Instructor during their commencement ceremony.
In June 2024, she was named interim director.
A member of the Florida Academy of PAs, the American Academy of PAs, the PA Education Association and the Association of Standardized Patient Educators, Turley focuses her academic interests on pharmacotherapy, interprofessional collaboration and using active learning modalities such as simulated clinical encounters and team-based learning.
Learn more about Turley, her approach to leadership and her vision for the UF PA program in the Q&A below.
Q: How do you see your past experiences and roles at the College of Medicine shaping your approach to leadership at the PA school?
A: Having served in multiple roles within the College of Medicine over the past decade, I’ve developed a deep understanding of our institutional culture and built strong relationships across departments.
This network and institutional knowledge are invaluable in identifying opportunities for collaboration, whether it’s expanding clinical rotation sites, developing interprofessional education initiatives or aligning our program’s goals with the broader mission of the College of Medicine. These established relationships will help our School of PA Studies continue to grow while maintaining strong ties within the UF medical education community.
Q: Stepping into your role as director for the UF School of PA Studies, what are your biggest goals or priorities for the program?
A: My biggest goals and priorities are centered around building on the program’s existing legacy while driving innovation and growth. I aim to foster a culture of excellence and community, where our students, faculty and staff feel valued, supported and empowered to thrive.
To achieve this, I plan to prioritize faculty development, champion innovative teaching methods and promote interprofessional education and collaboration. Additionally, I am committed to ensuring our curriculum remains relevant and forward-thinking, with a focus on preparing practice-ready graduates who are equipped to address the evolving health care landscape. This will involve harnessing the power of artificial intelligence, incorporating emerging trends in health care and emphasizing the importance of respect for all individuals.
By achieving these goals, I am confident we can continue to position the UF School of PA Studies as a leader in PA education, while making a meaningful impact on the health care landscape and the communities we serve.
Q: Medical education and health care are evolving rapidly. What opportunities do you see for innovation or growth within UF’s PA program?
A: We can evolve our curriculum to incorporate a focus on the application of artificial intelligence, as well as build on our existing simulation-based training program to create even more realistic and immersive learning experiences for our students. At the same time, we must maintain a strong focus on human-centered care, ensuring our students learn to harness the power of technology in a way that prioritizes patient-centered care, promotes health care access for all and upholds the highest standards of professionalism and ethics.
Q: Outside of work, what keeps you grounded or inspired? Any hobbies or interests that might surprise your colleagues?
A: As a wife and mother of three, my family has always been my rock. They provide unwavering support and inspiration, and I’m grateful for every moment we spend together. We’ve developed a family motto — “turn the page” — which reminds us to learn from our mistakes, move forward and grow from our experiences.
Outside of work, I’m an avid traveler and outdoor enthusiast. I appreciate that nature is always accessible, and that no matter how complex the world gets, there is a simplicity and clarity in putting one foot in front of the other on a trail. Hiking has become a favorite pastime, allowing me to challenge myself physically and connect with the world around me. In 2017, our family set a goal to hike 100 miles together, and we were thrilled to reach that milestone through a series of adventures on some amazing trails. My kids were 10, 8 and 6 at the time, and it was amazing to see them develop a love for the outdoors right alongside me.
More recently, my husband and I celebrated our 20-year wedding anniversary by completing the Tour Du Mont Blanc, a breathtaking circuit around the highest peak in the Alps. This once-in-a-lifetime experience not only deepened our connection with each other but also reminded me of the beauty and wonder that awaits us when we push beyond our comfort zones.
These experiences have taught me the value of resilience, adaptability and community — qualities I believe are essential for our students and colleagues in the School of PA Studies. As I take on my new role as program director, I’m excited to draw on these lessons and inspire a new generation of health care leaders to make a real difference in the world.
Melissa Turley, Pharm.D., MPAS, PA-C, with her family.
