The Duke Physician Assistant Program held its 58th graduation on August 9, celebrating the class of 2025. A total of 88 students graduated from the program. Jacqueline S. Barnett, DHSc, MSHS, PA-C, who recently retired as division chief and program director, welcomed students and attendees to the ceremony.
“You’ve accomplished so much in the past two years,” Barnett said to the graduates. “Today we’re not only here to celebrate your achievements, but to also honor the journey that you brought. A journey defined by resilience, dedication, and above all, purpose.”
Janelle Bludorn, MS, PA-C, academic coordinator and assistant p
rofessor of family medicine and community health, delivered the graduation address, offering advice to the students as they begin their careers. “As you transition into practice, I hope that you never stop asking questions,” she said. “I hope you continue to learn in the same way that you practiced your learning here. My challenge for each of you now is to go out there and share every single day what you have learned.”
Class President Kristina Miller gave the graduate remarks, and Betsy Melcher, MS, ATC, MHS, PA-C, assistant professor in family medicine and community health, led the class through the PA professional oath.
During the ceremony, Estelle Kelty was recognized with the Richard J. Scheele Award, which is given annually to the graduate who best demonstrates academic excellence, leadership, and professionalism.
Kristina Miller received the Joyce Clayton Nichols Award, which honors a graduate who exemplifies service, advocacy, humanitarianism, and professionalism.
The Henry "Buddy" Lee Trewell Award was presented to faculty member Suzzanne Hallquist MSPH, MHS, PA-C. Named after Trewell, who played a key role in shaping Dr. Eugene A. Stead Jr.’s., M.D., vision for PA education, the award is given by the graduating class to honor outstanding faculty or preceptors.
Pi Alpha
The following PA students were inducted into Pi Alpha, the national PA honor society:
Annemarie Altomare
Julia Barrett
Sofia Burgoon
Mari Moss Gapcynski
Mikayla Herron
Estelle Kelty
Tatiana Lim
Kristina Miller
Brianna Phillips
Agnieszka Poss
Madeline Quick
Megan Sippy
Nathan Thimas
