The Physician Assistant (PA) program received the Esther Elliott Martin Scholarship award in recognition of its commitment to community service, including its work with the Health Outreach Practice Experience (H.O.P.E.) Clinic, which provides primary care services to those who are uninsured or underinsured.

The $2,000 scholarship was given by Portage Learning, an organization that provides online learning through regionally accredited institutions.

The scholarship money, which will go to two PA students, recognizes a commitment to service and excellence in education. Angelica Aceti, PA program coordinator, applied for the scholarship using the PA program’s pro bono H.O.P.E. Clinic as an example of the program’s focus on community service.

With the money, Aceti plans to award $1,000 scholarships each to a student who has made a significant commitment to the H.O.P.E. Clinic, and to a student who has demonstrated excellence in community service more broadly.

Angelica Aceti, PA program coordinator

“I wanted an opportunity to recognize those students who really go above and beyond,” said Aceti. “I hope this will encourage other staff members to seek out similar opportunities for their students.”

During the 2023-24 academic year, the clinic expanded its services and saw 700 patient visits, up from 400 the previous year. Patients are seen by faculty and by students who work under faculty supervision.