A Groundbreaking Moment in Physician Assistant Education
In a recent announcement that has resonated across the nation, Assistant Professor Stephanie Podolski of the University of New England (UNE) was honored with the William H. Marquardt Precepting/Mentorship Award. This award, presented by the Physician Association Foundation, recognizes PA professionals who go beyond the classroom to nurture the next generation of primary‐care providers, especially in underserved areas.
Why the Award Matters for PA Students and Faculty
Physician assistants play a pivotal role in the United States healthcare system, providing high‑quality care at the front lines. Effective mentorship is critical to developing competent, compassionate practitioners. The Marquardt award highlights the essential contribution of seasoned educators who guide students through the demands of rigorous academic programs and the trials of clinical rotations.
Pedagogical Excellence at UNE
Podolski’s work exemplifies UNE’s commitment to experiential learning. As course coordinator for the integrating seminar and public health courses, she creates interdisciplinary case studies that mirror real‑world scenarios. Her role as a clinical preceptor at Maine General Medical Center gives students hands‑on exposure to hospital medicine, a specialty increasingly adopted by PA programs nationwide.
Her dedication to collaborative teaching showcases a model that PA programs can emulate: integrating classroom instruction with direct patient care, fostering critical thinking and professional identity formation.
Impact on Underserved Communities
The award’s focus on accessible primary care aligns with UNE’s mission to address health disparities. By pairing students with mentors who serve in rural or low‑income communities, the program reinforces the importance of health equity. Alumni such as Podolski often return to serve in these settings, creating a virtuous cycle.
For PA students considering programs that value community engagement, UNE’s track record offers a clear signal that mentorship extends beyond academic achievement into real-world impact.
Stephanie Podolski – A Triple Alumnus Who Gives Back
Obtain her master’s in public health and a second master’s in physician assistant studies from UNE, Podolski embodies the university’s “commit‑to‑students” ethos. Her professional journey spans teaching, clinical leadership, and national advocacy, with positions such as president of the Maine Academy of Physician Associates and chief delegate to the American Academy of Physician Associates House of Delegates.
Podolski’s blend of scholarship, clinical expertise, and service demonstrates that effective mentorship is rooted in practice, policy, and pedagogy. Her recognition by the Foundation serves as proof that the dedication nurtures the next wave of high‑frequency primary care providers.
For PA students, her story offers a roadmap: combine strong academic foundations with community involvement and professional leadership.
How UNE Supports PA Students
UNE’s physician assistant curriculum is the only program in Maine with an integrated medical‑assistant model. Faculty like Podolski build a support network that encourages academic success, clinical confidence, and holistic wellness.
Students benefit from small‑group teaching, real‑world case analyses, and faculty mentors who provide personalized feedback and career guidance. This approach aligns with the latest research indicating that mentorship improves PA students’ clinical performance and post‑graduation job placement.
Amplifying Mentorship Through Technology
UNE’s online platforms allow students to access mentorship resources from anywhere. Virtual case discussions, recorded lectures, and digital office hours expand the reach of faculty expertise. These tools provide continuity for students who may be juggling clinical duties and coursework.
Emerging trends in PA education emphasize blended learning environments—a trend that UNE has embraced early. By mirroring this progress, UNE positions its graduates for success in diverse practice settings.
What This Means for Future Healthcare Professionals
Recognizing mentorship at a national level amplifies the importance of student‑faculty relationships in PA education. It underscores that professional development is inseparable from community service and patient care milestones.
For PT, nursing, and pharmacy programs that rely on PA collaboration, awards like Marquardt highlight the value of interdisciplinary partnerships built on mutual respect and mentorship.
Find Out How You Can Join a Mentored PA Program
If you’re looking to pursue a career that blends rigorous scientific training with real‑world community impact, UNE’s PA program offers a comprehensive pathway. Its faculty, exemplified by Podolski, commit to personalized mentorship that prepares students for the evolving healthcare landscape.
Ready to learn more about how UNE supports its PA students? Explore the program details and begin your application process below.
Explore UNE’s Physician Assistant Program
Take the Next Step
For admissions inquiries, schedule a tour, or connect with current PA students, visit the admissions portal and fill out the request form. Learning about the unique mentorship culture at UNE can be your first step toward a rewarding career in primary care.
Apply to UNE’s PA Program Today
Want to see how mentorship shapes careers? Attend an upcoming PA workshop or panel discussion hosted by UNE. These events provide insight into the day‑to‑day realities of the field.
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As you consider your PA journey, remember that mentorship is a catalyst for success. UNE’s recognition of faculty excellence demonstrates that the right guidance can transform academic programs into powerful drivers of community health.
For more information or to discuss your interests with a faculty mentor, contact the communications office or download the program brochure directly.
