Physician Assistant, DMSc programs celebrate 2024 graduates & new students
The SIU School of Medicine Physician Assistant (PA) community kicked off August with three key celebratory events that showcased the dedication, achievements and future aspirations of its students and faculty.
On Aug. 2, the SIU Carbondale Student Center transformed into a vibrant display of scholarly work. Each poster represented months of meticulous research and analysis as 38 students presented their projects to an audience of peers, family, faculty and friends.
The celebrations continued the next day with the much-anticipated SIU School of Medicine PA White Coat Ceremony. This event marks the culmination of 26 months of rigorous study, clinical rotations and personal growth for the Class of 2024. Thirty-eight students proudly donned their long white coats, symbolizing their transition from students to health care professionals (below).
The SIU Medicine PA program faculty, led by Dr. Don Diemer, and the Class of 2024 welcomed the incoming Class of 2026, which includes 40 students ready to begin their journey (below).
Class President David Kameron Browning delivered a heartfelt speech that resonated deeply. He reflected on challenges they faced during their studies and emphasized the importance of compassion in health care. "As we go forth into the world, let us carry with us the flame of hope, the light of knowledge, and the spirit of compassion."
The ceremony concluded with recognition of these outstanding individuals:
Pi Alpha Honor Society inductees
Alexander Michalak
Nicole Ostaszewski
Hannah Pfneisel
Savanna Staley
Julianne Wheelock
Charmaine Porter Award
Jacob Sholl
Preceptors of the Year
Belleville- Sammi Syrett, PA-C
Cape Girardeau-Daniel Griffin, DO
Carbondale-Elizabeth Jolliff, CNM
Champaign-Aubrey Hudson, PA-C
Decatur-Sandra Yockey, MD
Mattoon-Lucas Catt, MD
Olney-Luis De Venecia, MD
Peoria-Marci Well, MD
Quincy-Pamela Friye, DO
Springfield-Chrissie Albers-Schlichting, DMSc, PA-C
Teacher of the Year
Dan Hagerman, DMSc, PA-C
PBL Facilitator of the Year
Macy Henson, DMSc, PA-C
PA Staff Member of the Year
Jennifer Dietz
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The SIU Doctor of Medical Science (DMSc) Hooding Ceremony followed later in the day, celebrating the accomplishments of those who completed their doctoral studies. The graduates, representing 15 states, formed a diverse group united in their dedication to advancing their knowledge and leadership in the medical profession. The emotional event saw 24 graduates in attendance, supported by their families and friends.
Cassandra Wood, this year's DMSc representative, delivered an inspiring speech, emphasizing perseverance and dedication (left). "Today, you have attained the degree of professional recognition to help you on your way to greater things. Welcome to the 2%. You're not unusual—you’re exceptional!" The ceremony also honored those who could not attend, including Dr. Luna Noel, who celebrated her Excellence in Scholarship award via livestream from Hawaii.
With Kristen Schloemann and Macy Henson earning their doctoral degrees, every faculty member in SIU School of Medicine’s PA program now holds a doctoral degree. The success of these graduates highlights the program’s ongoing commitment to innovation, nurturing future generations of PAs, dedication to the health care field and compassionate care for the community.
Excellence in Scholarship
Annie Kowalis, DMSc, PA-C
L. Kristen Schloemann, DMSc, PA-C
Heather Justice, DMSc, PA-C
Luna Noel, DMSc, PA-C
Leadership and Advocacy Award
Cassandra Wood
LT Col Jodi Wernikoff, DMSc, PA-C, USA
Deborah Epstein, DMSc, PA-C
Faculty of the Year Award
Josh Butler, DMSc, PA-C
Faculty Excellence Award
Rachel Terrill, DMSc, PA-C
