The Rutgers Physician Assistant (PA) program celebrated its 50th anniversary with a gala that brought together generations of alumni, faculty, students, and friends. The milestone event honored a half-century of education, service, and leadership in advancing the PA profession in New Jersey and beyond.

Guests enjoyed an evening of cocktails, dinner, dancing, and a photobooth that captured the spirit of reunion and pride. The Sept. 13 celebration at Pine Manor in Edison also paid tribute to individuals whose dedication shaped the program’s enduring success.

Honorees included:

• Legacy Pioneers (Posthumous Recognition): Stanley S. Bergen, Jr., MD, and W. Robert Jenkins, PhD
• Distinguished Alumni: Ruth Fixelle, MEd, PA-C (’78); Kevin Walsh, PA-C (’78); and Bill Kohlhepp, DHSc, PA-C (’79)
• Pioneer Alumni: Susan Merritt (’91); LaNelle McKay (’92); and Susan Vanek (Stucker) (’91)

As the Rutgers PA community reflected on its legacy of impact and innovation, Matthew McQuillan, program chair and director, said the tradition of making a difference in the lives of patients and their communities promises to continue for the next 50 years.

The program expressed gratitude to sponsors Dimer Health, RWJBarnabas Health, and Kayal Orthopaedic Group for supporting the celebration.