Avital Lehmann, PA-C
Avital Lehmann, PA-C
Avital graduated from Touro College School of Health Sciences PA Program, and holds a bachelor’s degree in Judaic Studies from Binah Institute, where she graduated summa cum laude as valedictorian. She began her career in medicine with five years as a hospitalist PA prior to transitioning to her specialty in endocrinology in 2013. She has practiced endocrinology in both the inpatient and outpatient settings and has been heavily involved in education throughout this time, through classroom instruction, clinical precepting, and private tutoring. Currently practicing exclusively in the inpatient setting at St. Joseph Medical Center, Avital frequently serves as a preceptor for Towson University PA students. She holds a position as Adjunct Faculty there, where she stepped up to fill a critical need teaching the Pathophysiology course in summer 2023. Additionally, Avital has lectured at APP Grand Rounds in her hospital as well as at her state PA organization conference. Avital is a Fellow member of the American Society of Endocrine Physician Assistants (ASEPA), the Maryland Academy of PAs (MdAPA), and the American Academy of PAs (AAPA), and is the branch founder and chair of the Baltimore-Washington chapter of the Jewish Association of PAs (JAPA).
Why the PALLA Fellowship?
The PALLA Fellowship is a unique opportunity to further my passion for teaching while utilizing my clinical experience. I hope to expand my understanding of effective educational techniques to increase my impact in training the next generation of PAs.
Sarah Webster, MMS, PA-C
Sarah Webster, MMS, PA-C
After working several years in EMS as a Paramedic, Sarah went back to school to actualize her dream of being an advanced practice provider and graduated from the AACC/St. Francis University PA Program in 2013 earning a Master’s of Medical Science. She has worked in the Emergency Department ever since and has also spent some time working in urgent care and vascular surgery. She is a current Doctor of Medical Science student with a concentration in medical education at the University of Lynchburg and anticipates graduation in October of 2024. She is also guest lecturer at the UMB PA program and is looking forward to a new, long-lived career in PA education.
Why the PALLA fellowship?
I’m brand new to PA education and while I have learned so much about developing curriculum and the ARC-PA accreditation process in my doctoral work, there are still many skills to develop. The PALLA fellowship is going to help put more tools in my toolbox and provide a space to develop those leadership and educational skills that will translate into the classroom.
Ashley Nwamaka Nnorom, PA-C
Ashley Nwamaka Nnorom, PA-C
Ashley Nwamaka graduated from Nova Southeastern University in 2015 in Masters of Health Science Cum Laude. Has worked for the last 9 years as a hospitalist PA in various communities. Passionate in educating patients in lifestyle modifications and preventative care in acute care setting.
Why the PALLA fellowship
As PA student almost 9 years ago, I understand the importance of PALLA even more as a structured way to educate the next generation of PA students. I hope with this opportunity and my prior experience to take on the role of faculty and perhaps mentor for upcoming physician assistants. I realize this will come with its own challenges but I am up for the task ahead. I appreciate your consideration.
Robin Fencel, PA-C
Robin Fencel, PA-C
Robin completed her undergraduate education in Biology and Health Care Management at Towson University in 2012. While working at the University of Maryland Medical Center as an Anesthesia and Neuromonitoring technician she was introduced to the Physician Assistant profession. The balance of patient-centered care and team-based medical practice had her interest. She received her Masters of Science from University of the Sciences PA program in Philadelphia. During her time in PA school, she served as the Constituent Chapter Student Representative for the Pennsylvania State Physician Assistant Association. After graduating, she returned to Maryland and is currently serving as the Treasurer for the Maryland Physician Assistant Association.
Robin is a leader in Orthopedic care at the University of Maryland, R Adams Cowley Shock Trauma Center. She is the APP Lead Representative for the University of Maryland Medical System Spine Network and Orthopedic Quality and Surgical Quality and Safety Councils. She has experience working in both the inpatient and outpatient settings as well as multiple service lines including Trauma, ACES, Oncology, Internal Medicine, and Vascular Surgery. Robin advocates for PAs to practice at the top of their scope. She chairs the APP Novice Committee and Physician Assistant Committee at UMMC. Additionally she is the UMMC PA representative for credentialing, conference planning, PA student education, and advanced practice professional advancement. She is a mentor for her peers and a champion for patient-centered care. Currently, Robin is in the inaugural cohort for the Doctor of Medical Science program at UMB and Adjunct Faculty Assistant Professor at the UMB PA program.
Why the PALLA Fellowship?
Baltimore, Maryland provides a unique opportunity to be involved with the esteemed PALLA Fellowship, DMSc Program, and Level 1 Trauma Academic Learning Center. I joined PALLA because I am committed to advancing the field of Physician Assistant education, advocating for more PA leadership within healthcare, and expanding the quality/access of care for patients. I hope to gain the knowledge and skills to continue to grow as a leader and form relationships with like minded faculty.
Elizabeth Donovan, MS, PA-C
Elizabeth Donovan, MS, PA-C
Elizabeth graduated from the George Washington School of Medicine and Health Sciences PA program in 1990 shortly after completing her undergraduate degree in Biopsychology at University of Maryland, College Park. She has worked her entire career in General Surgery, both inpatient and outpatient settings. She went on to obtain her Master of Physician Assistant Studies with Pace University in 2020. She realized a strong passion for education while precepting PA students during Covid leading her to the fellowship. She has been an active member of MdAPA for the last five years, including President (2023-2024), with a focus on new initiatives to support Maryland PA students.
Why the PALLA Fellowship?
When I chose this path towards PA education, the Physician Assistant Leadership and Learning Academy was the obvious choice for a well-established, structured academic framework that would support my transition into academia. I believe PALLA will provide training that includes a unique blend of expertise in PA education, scholarship, and professional advocacy, successfully preparing me to teach the next generation of PA clinicians and leaders.
Jill Adkins, PA-C
Jill Adkins, PA-C
I completed my BS in biology at Shippensburg University, graduating in 2017. I then completed my Physician Assistant studies at Shenandoah University, graduating in 2019. Prior to starting PA school I worked as an ED tech for 15 years. After graduating PA school I spent the first 4 years of my career in the ED at a level 3 trauma center. While there I was the student coordinator for our site. I have recently started a position with a urology group and will be working as a hospitalist PA solely for urology. I am also an adjunct faculty for the PA program at Shenandoah University. I have greatly enjoyed my time teaching both in the clinical and classroom settings.
Why the PALLA Fellowship?
Even in PA school I knew I would want to work in PA education at some time during my career. I find great joy and satisfaction in teaching upcoming PAs. The PALLA fellowship will provide me necessary tools and skills to be an effective educator.
ToriAnne Yetter, MSPAS, PA-C
ToriAnne Yetter, MSPAS, PA-C
ToriAnne M. Yetter, DMS, PA-C is a primary care physician assistant and assistant professor with expertise in family medicine, community health, and pediatric and adult hospital medicine. She has a special interest in mental health delivery in the primary care setting as well as interests in the perinatal period, pediatric population, and the intersection of the health of parent and baby. She earned her bachelor's in cognitive science from the University of Delaware, her master's in physician assistant studies from the Medical University of South Carolina, and her doctorate in medical science from Shenandoah University.
Why the PALLA Fellowship?
I chose to participate in the PALLA faculty fellowship to grow in academia and leadership as a physician assistant, with the hope of promoting advancement in PA education and successful knowledge transfer. After a wonderful experience participating as a fellow in the PALLA HELP-PA program, I was inspired to continue collaborating with PALLA and further my growth as a PA leader and faculty member.
Tiffany White, MS, PA-C
Tiffany White, MS, PA-C
Tiffany White, PA-C is an otolaryngology trained physician assistant and serves as an assistant professor at the University of Maryland Baltimore Physician Assistant Program. She obtained her master’s in physician assistant studies from the University of Kentucky. Throughout her career, she has worked in outpatient settings with a focus on head and neck surgery, facial plastic and reconstructive surgery, allergies, and hearing disorders. Her patient care approach emphasizes compassion, respect, and preventative measures. She has special interests in increasing racial and ethnic diversity among the PA workforce, inclusive advising, and healthcare leadership.
Why the PALLA Fellowship?
I believe participating in the PALLA faculty fellowship represents a crucial step in my professional growth. This fellowship offers a valuable opportunity to build a solid foundation in PA education. As a newcomer to academia, I am eager to enhance my teaching practices and look forward to collaborating with experienced educators who can guide me through the complexities of academic leadership and program development.
Annie Kowalis, PA-C
Annie Kowalis, PA-C
Annie has built a remarkable career marked by academic excellence and professional dedication. After graduating summa cum laude from the University of Maryland, College Park in 2005 with a Bachelor of Science degree, Annie’s pursuit of a career in medicine led her to earn a Master of Science in Health Sciences from George Washington University Physician Assistant Program in 2007. Annie's professional journey began in general and trauma surgery, where she honed her clinical skills and developed a deeper understanding of patient care. In 2010, she made a pivotal transition to orthopaedic surgery, specializing in orthopaedic trauma, where her expertise significantly impacted patient outcomes. Her passion for education and mentorship has been a consistent theme throughout her career. Annie has found great fulfillment in working with PA students and new graduates, nurturing their growth and inspiring future medical professionals. This passion culminated in earning a Doctor of Medical Science degree with a concentration in PA education from Southern Illinois University in 2024. Annie's aspirations in academia led her to regular guest lecturing opportunities at Notre Dame of Maryland University PA Program and she now proudly serves as an assistant professor at the University of Maryland, Baltimore PA Program. Her journey reflects a blend of clinical excellence and a deep-seated commitment to shaping the future of PA education.
“Why the PALLA Fellowship?”
The PALLA Fellowship represents an extraordinary opportunity for me to elevate my capabilities as a PA educator. This program’s comprehensive and collaborative format promises to deepen my knowledge, expand my skill set, and foster significant personal growth. With the enhanced expertise and insights I will gain from the fellowship, I am eager to mentor and guide the next generation of PA students, preparing them for successful careers in medicine.