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Diane Visich, Ed.D., PA-C, associate program director of assessment for the �Թϱ���’s Master of Science Physician Assistant (M.S.P.A.) program, was recently awarded the Robert J. Lapham Service Award from the Maine Academy of Physician Assistants (MEAPA).

The award is presented to a Maine physician assistant (PA) in recognition of outstanding service to the PA profession, demonstration of strong leadership skills, and representation at the state, national, and international levels. Visich was awarded for her service as interim program director for Maine’s only physician assistant program throughout 2020-2021, when the COVID-19 pandemic hit Maine and the nation.

Visich joined the �Թϱ��� faculty in August of 2011. She holds both an M.S.P.A. and a doctorate in educational leadership from Central Michigan University.

Following her completion of the M.S.P.A. program, Visich worked for 11 years in family practice, cardiology, and neurosurgery, which, along with preventative medicine and urgent care, are a few of her specialties. Her academic experience lies in interprofessional education, evidence-based medicine, problem-based learning, curriculum design, and educational leadership.

“I was honored to receive the Robert J. Lapham award, and I must also recognize the hard work and dedication put forward during the time of COVID-19 by the faculty and staff at the �Թϱ��� M.S.P.A. program,” Visich remarked. “Their efforts assured a quality education for our students with no delay in graduation for these future PA providers, many of whom remain in New England to practice medicine.”