Founding Director of the Physician Assistant Program
Founding Director of the Physician Assistant Program
University of Wisconsin - Parkside, in partnership with the national search firm Scott Healy & Associates, invites applications and nominations for the position of Director of the Physician Assistant Program. The successful candidate will serve as the Founding Director of this new program and will be charged with leading the program through its initial accreditation process. This is a twelve-month position with progression abilities within the Center for Health Sciences and reports directly to the Dean of the College of Natural and Health Sciences.
The University of Wisconsin - Parkside is seeking an individual who has the ability and interest to contribute and be an integral part of building a Physician Assistant program that creates a community committed to student-centeredness; professional development and scholarship; integrity and ethics; respect, diversity and pluralism; innovation and flexibility; and teamwork and collaboration. The successful candidate will have a vision for building a program and training healthcare professionals that reflect these values and become vital components of the communities they serve.
The Program Director will be responsible for the administration and operation of the program in compliance with the requirements of the University and the Accreditation Review Commission on Education for the Physician Assistant, Inc. (ARC-PA). The Director is also responsible for effective leadership and management of the PA Program and will carefully attend to issues related to personnel, program and institutional processes, and application of resources.
Responsibilities:
- Oversee the program’s organization and administration, providing effective leadership and management.
- Provide knowledge, insight, and overall responsibility for the accreditation process and procedures and maintaining compliance with the Accreditation Standards for Physician Assistant Education.
- Provide timely completion of ARC-PA documents.
- Oversee ongoing program self-assessment to review the quality and effectiveness of student instruction, policies and outcomes and adherence to the ARC-PA standards and policies to assure continued ARC-PA accreditation.
- Actively participate in teaching in areas of expertise as time and responsibilities allow.
- Oversee program’s fiscal management as it relates to daily and long-range planning and development.
- Maintain overall responsibility for the ongoing planning and development of the program.
- Facilitate student recruitment and retention; oversee and coordinate the program admission process, including student selection, in conjunction with the Office of Admissions and in collaboration with the CNHS Associate Dean, the Director for the Center for Health Sciences, and advising personnel within the College.
- Provide oversight of the prospective student admissions process to the MSPA program.
- Provide effective leadership and strategic direction with transparent communication with faculty, staff, and students.
- Assist and collaborate with program personnel in the development, coordination and recruitment of clinical rotation sites.
- Conduct annual performance appraisals and Plan of Work exercises for faculty and staff development in PA Program.
- Oversee the PA Program committees.
- Work collaboratively and the College and University leadership to maintain and grow the program’s reputation.
- Work collaboratively with the Academic Coordinator and provide instruction, guidance, and support to program staff and adjunct faculty who coordinate, supervise, instruct, and evaluate all students.
- Provide supervision/mentorship to the Medical Director, faculty, and staff in all activities directly relating to the PA Program.
- Manage faculty workload and assign teaching schedules to meet students’ needs consistent with College and University policies and procedures.
- Be the internal and external representative at appropriate University, State, and Community level functions and activities as needed.
- Other duties to ensure the PA program is operationally sound.
Qualifications:
- PA education leadership experience.
- Minimum of 3 years of PA program teaching experience.
- Minimum of 5 years of clinical experience.
- NCCPA certified physician assistant.
- Master's degree from an accredited physician assistant program.
- Prior experience with ARC-PA accreditation procedures preferred.
About University of Wisconsin - Parkside:
University of Wisconsin - Parkside is a living laboratory for exploration and discovery. Nestled in 700 acres of natural beauty, UW-Parkside offers unparalleled opportunities for hands-on learning and research. In addition, the strategic location along the Milwaukee-Chicago corridor provides easy access to internships, businesses, and cultural experiences. With just over 4,000 students and a student-to-faculty ratio of 14:1, students benefit from personalized attention from dedicated faculty. From business to biology, computer science to communication, the diverse range of available academic programs is designed to prepare students for the challenges of today and the opportunities of tomorrow. With a focus on hands-on learning and real-world application, the curriculum empowers students to thrive in a rapidly evolving global landscape.
About the College of Natural and Health Sciences:
The College of Natural and Health Sciences is a thriving learning community that spurs local, regional, and global progress. With over 50 majors, minors, concentrations, and certificates, the College offers cutting-edge research programs and provides a foundation for students to take on today's toughest scientific challenges. Students enjoy a unique opportunity to work side-by-side with experienced faculty members on innovative research projects in numerous fields, including biology, chemistry, environmental studies, geosciences, health, kinesiology, sport performance, sport management, mathematics, physics, psychology, and molecular biology. Graduates of the college proceeding to professional health programs have an 89+% placement rate.
About the Community:
Kenosha, Wisconsin, is located on the shores of Lake Michigan, between Chicago and Milwaukee. This charming lakeside city is known for its picturesque harbor, beautiful beaches, and historic streetcars. As a cultural hub, it offers attractions like the Civil War Museum, Kenosha Public Museum, and the Dinosaur Discovery Museum. Outdoor enthusiasts enjoy the marina, bike trails, and several state parks. The city also holds vibrant farmers' markets and year-round community events. With affordable housing, reputable schools, and a growing job market, Kenosha is an appealing destination for families and professionals alike. Living in Kenosha offers a unique blend of small-town charm and urban conveniences. Residents enjoy stunning waterfront views, easy access to recreational activities, and a relaxed pace of life. The city boasts a friendly, tight-knit community with a diverse population and a welcoming atmosphere.
Application and Nomination Process:
All correspondence relating to the position of Director of Physician Assistant Program at University of Wisconsin - Parkside should be directed in confidence to the University’s executive search consultant:
Dr. Lea Johnson, Assistant Vice President
Scott Healy & Associates
A complete application should include the following:
1. Cover Letter outlining your interest and qualifications for the position;
2. Updated CV;
3. Three (3) professional references with contact information, title, institutional affiliation, email address and direct phone numbers. (No references will be contacted without written permission from the candidate.)
Applications received by February 28, 2025 will receive priority consideration. The search will remain open until the position is filled.
All applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, national origin, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity/expression, disability, or protected veteran status. Individuals from diverse backgrounds are encouraged to apply.
