In a celebration filled with applause and insightful advice, the University of Nevada, Reno School of Medicine (UNR Med) held a commencement ceremony for the 22 graduates of the Physician Assistant (PA) Studies Program on Wednesday, July 26, 2023, at the Joe Crowley Student Union.

Each speaker at the event encouraged the graduates to carry their purpose, compassion, and dedication forward as they embark on their careers.

“Your decision to become a PA speaks volumes about your inner calling to serve others, to heal, and to make a lasting impact on the lives of your community and its patients,” said Brian S. Lauf, DMSc, PA-C, DFAAPA, founding director of the PA Studies Program. “You have chosen a profession that demands medical expertise, empathy, compassion, and a profound commitment to human welfare.”

The graduates earned their Master of Physician Assistant Studies degree after completing a 25-month-long full-time program comprised of academic and clinical courses, clinical skills training, and supervised clinical practice. This year’s graduates were selected from more than 1,700 applicants. One-half of the class comes from a rural background, and a quarter have served in the military.

The ceremony was the final academic milestone for these students before taking the Physician Assistant National Certifying Exam (PANCE). Upon completion, PAs are qualified to conduct physical exams, diagnose and treat illnesses, order and interpret tests, write prescriptions, and perform and assist in surgeries. Many graduates plan to stay in Nevada to practice, helping to increase access to care.

The growth of healthcare demand nationwide, especially in Nevada, has created a need for PAs in clinical settings.

“PAs play a pivotal role in the healthcare ecosystem, and one that is growing,” UNR Med Dean Paul J. Hauptman, M.D., told the graduating class.

UNR Med, in partnership with Renown Health, created the PA Studies Program to meet the growing need for more healthcare professionals locally and statewide. The first class of PA students began instruction in 2018 at the University of Nevada, Reno Redfield Campus. Longtime supporter William N. Pennington Foundation has provided critical facilities, equipment, technology, and scholarship support. The Accreditation Review Commission on Education for the Physician Assistant granted Accreditation-Continued status to the program on June 28, 2023, signifying its compliance with ARC-PA Standards.

During his remarks at the event, University President Brian Sandoval recognized the vital role of each graduate’s work.

“Our world needs you all like no other time,” Sandoval said. “You are the future of healthcare in Nevada and the United States.”

He also commended the class of 2023’s commitment to diversity, recognizing Taylor Cartwright, Karina Castro, and Tory Hunt, who were instrumental authors of the program’s diversity and inclusion statement. In addition, President Sandoval highlighted Renato Ferro, who will join the Community Health Alliance to provide care to under-served Spanish-speaking and Latino populations. Born in Lima, Peru, Ferro immigrated to the U.S. at age six and later joined the marine corps before arriving at UNR Med.

“You know what it means to be a part of a community,” Sandoval said. “And now, you will help us strengthen our communities through your talents, resiliency, and ability to look at each person and understand their needs.”

During her comments to her classmates, Erinna McCarthy, recipient of the PA student achievement award, emphasized the importance of camaraderie, collaboration, and warmth in the medical profession.

“In our roles as PAs, we will have the privilege of extending a healing hand, providing comfort to those in pain, and offering hope in moments of despair,” she said. “Our profession is not just a means to earn a living. It is a profound opportunity to create a meaningful life.”

Keynote speaker, Domonique Katona, President of the Nevada Academy of PAs, echoed that sentiment in her remarks and urged graduates to remember their purpose and motivation while emphasizing the importance of advocating for the profession and providing equitable healthcare.

“PAs have been instrumental in our healthcare system for nearly six decades, providing timely and quality care to millions of Americans,” she said.

During their education, this year’s PA graduates navigated wildfires, blizzards, and the COVID-19 pandemic—each challenge requiring adaptability and courage. In his advice to the graduates, Dr. Hauptman addressed embracing change as part of their journey.

“Change is often the result of informed questioning,” Dr. Hauptman said. “Therein lies a key to both a satisfying career and a way to help your patients: remain curious, be critical, and strive to make things better.”