Effective immediately, April Stouder, EdD, MHS, PA-C, has been named and appointed as the program director and division chief of the Duke Physician Assistant Program. Stouder previously served as the associate program director and transitioned into the interim director role with the retirement of Jacqueline S. Barnett, DHSc, MSHS, PA-C.
Stouder graduated from Manchester College, where she obtained her B.S. in interdisciplinary human biology before entering the Duke PA program. She graduated from the program in 2000 and has held many titles since then. Serving as clinical coordinator in 2009, director of clinical education in 2012, and associate program director in 2018, Stouder has also received her Master of Health Sciences degree from Duke and a Doctor of Education from A.T. Still University. Alongside these roles, she also serves as an associate professor in the Department of Family Medicine and Community Health.
She demonstrates a strong dedication to the PA profession, bringing knowledge and experience rooted in leadership, along with a deep desire to help and support others. Her commitment and years of service within the program make her a strong and thoughtful leader for the program’s next chapter.
Stouder reflects, "It is an honor to serve the program, department, and SOM in this capacity. The strengths and talents of our team members and the mission-driven passion they display for their work every day made saying yes to this opportunity very easy. It is through our collective efforts and strong teamwork that DPAP will meet the challenges ahead and create an exciting future rooted in our values."