ATSU-CHC Central Coast Physician Assistant program announces new chair, director
Posted: January 22, 2024
A.T. Still University-College for Healthy Communities (ATSU-CHC) Dean Eric Sauers, PhD, announced Jennifer Harrington, DMSc, PA-C, DFAAPA, has been appointed to the role of Central Coast Physician Assistant (CCPA) department chair and program director, effective Jan. 2, 2024.
Dr. Harrington has been on CCPA faculty as a professor and director of didactic education and brings significant academic experience, including prior experience as a program director, to the position.
“She embodies the mission of the program, having served for 10 years as a PA in a Community Health Center (CHC) and participated in over a dozen medical missions,” Dr. Sauers said.
“Being a part of a greater purpose has been my experience at the CCPA program,” Dr. Harrington said. “I have been delighted to be part of a team of educators that shares many of my goals as a PA over the past 25 years. The focus on service, diversity, outreach, and CHC involvement is beyond most. The students, faculty, and staff have been collaborative and extremely pleasant to work with. I am grateful to now be given an opportunity to step into the role of program director and to lead the students, staff, and faculty. I hope to be a living model of the mission and vision set forth by my predecessors, and to continue to serve this team that is already busy shining a light in the world of PA education and making a difference for the greater good of patients everywhere.”
Dr. Harrington succeeds Daniel McDermott, DMSC, PA-C, who elected to step down from the position. Dr. McDermott will remain with the program in the role of clinical coordinator.
“I am grateful for the trust and support you have shown during my tenure as program director, and I look forward to continuing to serve the students in this new capacity,” Dr. McDermott said.