Range Rider

22 RANGE RIDER | FALL-WINTER 2017 B efore coming to Hardin- Simmons, Regan Lee, a student from Westphalia, Texas, encountered bumps in the road that left her feeling discouraged about a future in the healthcare field. But after hearing of the new Physician Assistant (PA) Program at Hardin-Simmons University, Lee’s dreams of working in the medical field became a reality. “Physician Assistant programs are extremely competitive, and it’s an honor for me to be able to be at Hardin- Simmons and a part of this program where I can receive an education that will help me be an effective healthcare provider,” said Lee, a student in the PA Program. Physician Assistants are one of the most in-demand positions in today’s workplace. HSU now has a PA Program to allow students like Lee more career opportunities in the medical field. “We are excited to begin the program this year and make a difference in the lives of these students. We also know that all of this is possible through Christ, who will be helping us all along the way,” said Dr. Jennifer Eames, Director of the PA Program. After a committee including Dr. Brisco, Dr. McNair, and University Chancellor and former president, Dr. Lanny Hall began exploring options for a new healthcare program at HSU, a new PA school was ruled as the best option for the students and community. With this motive in mind, Hardin- Simmons chose to create a program for Physician Assistants. There are only eight other PA programs in Texas and 210 nationwide. PA jobs were named one of the top five best jobs in the United States in 2017 by the U.S. News and World Report with a predicted growth rate of 30 percent. The HSU program contributes historical relevance to the healthcare field: Dr. Eames is the first female founding PA Program Director in Texas. She has focused on improving and promoting the school since its official creation in 2016. The school is near the Patty Hanks Shelton School of Nursing, across from the Dyess Welcome Center, and north of Hendrick Hospital, making it an optimal spot for students, faculty, and staff. The building accommodates a variety of labs and classrooms, student locker rooms, as well as faculty and staff offices. Dr. Eames designed the program with a dynamic team of experienced individuals to teach and assist the students. Clay Bulls serves as the Director of Clinical Education, as well as a recruiting role and as instructor of the program. The Medical Director of the program, HSU’S NEW PHYSICIAN ASSISTANT PROGRAM Faith & HEALING