Founding Physician Assistant Program Director

Washington & Jefferson College , in partnership with the national search firm Scott Healy & Associates , invites applications and nominations for the position of Founding Physician Assistant Program Director. Washington & Jefferson College is seeking an innovative, mission-driven Founding Program Director to lead the development, launch, and accreditation of a new PA Studies Program.

This is an exciting opportunity to shape a program from inception - designing the curriculum, building the faculty team, establishing clinical partnerships, and creating a culture of excellence that prepares future PAs to meet the evolving needs of healthcare. The ideal candidate is a strategic thinker, an inspiring educator, and a collaborative leader with deep experience in PA education and accreditation.

Responsibilities:

Program Development & Leadership

• Lead the design, planning, and implementation of the PA program, including curriculum development, assessment strategies, and program policies.
• Oversee the ARC-PA accreditation process, including preparation of the application, self-study reports, and site visit coordination.
• Establish the program s vision, mission, and long-term strategic goals in alignment with institutional priorities.
• Recruit, hire, mentor, and evaluate faculty and staff.

Academic & Administrative Oversight

• Ensure compliance with ARC-PA standards, institutional policies, and state/federal regulations.
• Develop and manage program budgets, resource allocation, and operational planning.
• Oversee student admissions processes, academic progression, and program evaluation.
• Foster a culture of academic excellence, professionalism, and student-centered learning.

Clinical Education Development

• Build and maintain strong relationships with clinical partners to secure high-quality clinical rotation sites.
• Collaborate with the Director of Clinical Education to ensure clinical experience meets program and accreditation standards.

Teaching & Scholarship

• Teach within the PA curriculum as appropriate.
• Engage in scholarly activity, professional development, and service to the institution and profession.

Institutional & Community Engagement

• Represent the program within the institution and to external stakeholders.
• Promote the program s visibility and reputation through community outreach, professional organizations, and partnerships.

Qualifications:

• Graduate of an ARC-PA accredited PA program.
• Master s degree required; doctoral degree preferred.
• Current NCCPA certification (or equivalent for physicians).
• Eligible for licensure as a PA (or physician) in Pennsylvania.
• Minimum of 3 5 years of experience in PA education, including leadership or administrative roles.
• Demonstrated experience with ARC-PA accreditation processes.
• Strong leadership, communication, and organizational skills.

About Washington & Jefferson College:

Washington & Jefferson College has spent two and a half centuries delivering a first-rate liberal arts education that is both broad and practical, preparing students to become ethical leaders poised for professional success. As one of the oldest colleges west of the Allegheny Mountains, W&J has been educating people who go on to lead in their professions and communities since 1781.

The College distinguishes itself by emphasizing continuous professional preparation and cultivating leaders committed to a standard of uncommon integrity. Ethical leadership is embedded in the institution s DNA shaping how students learn, work, and engage with one another and regardless of academic pursuit, every student gains a strong foundation in leading with integrity.

W&J fosters a supportive, diverse culture where every member of the community is valued, included, and able to reach their full potential. Students build meaningful connections on campus through clubs and organizations aligned with their interests, and develop broader networks through internships, volunteer opportunities, and community partnerships. With more than 20,000 hours of community service completed last year, the College continues to lead by living, playing, and serving in its extended community.

Set on a beautiful 65-acre campus in Washington, Pennsylvania , W&J offers a setting that blends historic charm with modern resources. The campus is within walking distance of restaurants, coffee shops, and community events in a growing downtown business district, and lies just 30 miles south of Pittsburgh and all it has to offer.

About the Community:

Washington, PA , offers a welcoming blend of history, recreation, and economic strength that makes it an appealing and vibrant community. Known locally as Little Washington, the town was founded in 1781 and boasts a rich heritage that predates Washington D.C., including the first National Historic Landmark of the Underground Railroad, one of only a few in the nation. Residents enjoy annual traditions such as Pike Days, the Covered Bridge Festival, the Houston Pumpkin Festival, and the Washington County Fair.

The area also features entertainment…