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Special Olympics Minnesota Honors Augsburg With Health Leadership Award

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Members of Augsburg's Physicians Assistant Program receive the Golisano Health Leadership Award from Special Olympics Minnesota.At a special presentation earlier this month, the Augsburg University Physician Assistant Studies Program received the Golisano Health Leadership Award from Special Olympics Minnesota. 

For more than three years, Augsburg has proudly partnered with Special Olympics to integrate an inclusive curriculum for more than 100 PA students and faculty. What started as a classroom lecture has evolved into a multifaceted partnership, including:

  • Panel presentations by Special Olympics Ambassadors, where students gain firsthand insights from athletes into the principle of “Nothing about me, without me!” in patient care.
  • Immersive experiences, such as healthy athlete annual physical exam screenings.
  • Hands-on training sessions with athletes during simulated clinic visits.
  • More than 250 hours of Special Olympics volunteer work at the Community Health Fair, Polar Plunge, and sporting events.

“These initiatives not only enrich our students’ education but also prepare them to meet the evolving needs of our communities,” said Vanessa Bester, associate professor of PA studies and director of Augsburg’s School of Health. “We are deeply honored to be recognized for this partnership and the impactful work we continue to do.” 

The Golisano Award recognizes health champions—leaders and organizations—that are making a significant contribution to equal access to health, fitness, or wellness for people with intellectual disabilities. It is the highest Special Olympics honor for health partners and serves to promote awareness of the progress and extraordinary efforts toward fulfilling the goals, values, and mission of Special Olympics Health work.

“It’s really reassuring to know that the future generation of PAs are going to be more comfortable working with our athletes and they feel comfortable going to you,” said Jeff Prendergast, senior health programs manager at Special Olympics Minnesota, who presented the award. “I know that if I have an athlete or family looking for care and I find someone that has been educated and trained at Augsburg, I feel very comfortable referring them to you.”

Learn more about Augsburg’s Master of Science in Physician Assistant Studies.

Augsburg Launches Minnesota’s First Doctor of Medical Science Program

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In fall 2025, Augsburg University will welcome the initial students to a first-of-its-kind doctoral program in Minnesota. The Doctor of Medical Science program offers physician assistants/associates (PAs) a pathway to career advancement in health care leadership and administration, research, public policy, academia, and specialized clinical practice. 

“Augsburg has a proud history of innovation, from establishing Minnesota’s first PA program in 1994 to now launching the state’s first PA-doctorate program,” said Associate Professor Vanessa Bester, director of Augsburg’s School of at Health. “The Doctor of Medical Science program continues this tradition of excellence, equipping PAs to excel as leaders, educators, scholars, entrepreneurs, and administrators.” 

The DMSc degree is an applied doctorate that emphasizes practical, real-world skill development in health care leadership and scholarship. Delivered in a fully asynchronous online format, Augsburg’s DMSc is a four-semester, 16-month program designed for working PAs seeking professional advancement. To be eligible for admission, students must hold a master’s degree in PA studies (MPAS, MSPAS, or equivalent) or a bachelor’s degree plus a minimum of five years practicing as a licensed physician assistant.

“Augsburg’s DMSc program is unique in its whole-person approach,” said DMSc Program Director Diana Soran. “The curriculum prepares students to develop critical leadership, research, and management skills while also aligning their coursework to support career growth. This intentional design prepares graduates for long-term success and fulfillment both professionally and personally.”

Career possibilities for DMSc graduates include director of clinical operations, graduate faculty member, principal investigator, health policy advisor, health startup development, and advanced practice provider in complex or specialized care settings.

“PAs bring a unique and indispensable perspective to health care, bridging gaps in care and fostering collaboration across medical teams,” said Bester. “By integrating health equity, inclusion, and innovation into real-world application, this transformative pathway empowers PAs to drive meaningful change in health care and in our communities.” 

In addition to the DMSc, Augsburg offers doctoral degrees in nursing and clinical psychology. 

To learn more, visit the DMSc program website.

PA Program Celebrates 10 Years of Graduates

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pa_examAugsburg’s Physician Assistant Studies program celebrated the 10th anniversary of its first graduating class on Saturday night. Several members of the graduating Class of 1997 as well as many other graduates and professors attended.

A reception was held at 4 p.m. in the Oren Gateway Center, with a dinner and program following at 5:30 p.m. in the Christensen Center.

“It was truly special to have so many classmates and original faculty join us to celebrate,” says David Barlow, a graduate of the Class of 1997 and current assistant professor in the program. “We are fortunate to be part of a fabulous profession that makes a difference in so many lives.” Continue reading “PA Program Celebrates 10 Years of Graduates” →