Complete Story
04/15/2026
Announcing the 2026-2027 OAPA Board of Directors and AAPA Delegate Candidates
Meet the OAPA Leadership Candidates
OAPA leaders actively shape the future of the PA profession in Ohio. Positions to be elected this year include:
- President-Elect
- Secretary-Treasurer
- Regional Director for Regions 3, 4, and 5
- Student Representative
- Three (3) AAPA Delegates
The OAPA Elections Manual governs the candidate application and election processes. You can learn more about candidate eligibility and the application requirements on our elections page.
Included below for each candidate are:
- Name, credentials, and affiliation
- Brief professional biography
- Responses to a standard set of three questions
- Optional headshot
- Optional social media link(s)
Candidates are listed alphabetically by last name where there are contested offices. Note that OAPA members are permitted to run simultaneously for a Board of Directors position and an AAPA Delegate position.
The voting period will be April 17-May 1, 2026. OAPA members who are eligible voters will receive a ballot via email on April 17.
Please contact oapa@ohiopa.com with any questions regarding the 2026-2027 leadership elections.
***** President-Elect *****
Emily N. Keller, DMS, PA-C,
OhioHealth and Ashland University
Emily N. Keller, DMS, PA-C, is a physician assistant in neurosurgery with OhioHealth and a Clinical Assistant Professor in the Ashland University Physician Assistant Program. She is passionate about provider development, professional advocacy, and preparing the next generation of physician assistants. Emily currently serves as Region 5 Director for the Ohio Association of Physician Assistants (OAPA), where she works to strengthen engagement among practicing PAs, students, and healthcare leaders across Ohio. Through this role, she has supported regional networking opportunities, communication initiatives, and member engagement efforts. She has also served as Vice President of the Association of Neurosurgical Physician Assistants, contributing to national initiatives focused on PA leadership, education, and collaboration within the neurosurgical community. In addition to her clinical and professional organization work, Emily participates in health system initiatives focused on advanced practice provider education and development. She is committed to strengthening the PA profession through mentorship, advocacy, and leadership, and she is dedicated to supporting physician assistants across Ohio.
Connect with Emily on LinkedIn
What aspect of OAPA's mission most resonates with you?
What resonates most with me about OAPA’s mission is the commitment to removing obstacles and providing resources that support the personal and professional development of physician assistants across Ohio while ultimately improving patient care. As the PA profession continues to evolve, strong professional organizations play a vital role in ensuring that PAs have access to education, mentorship, advocacy, and professional support. OAPA’s work in advancing continuing medical education, promoting the role of physician assistants, and representing PAs and PA students helps ensure that our profession continues to grow while maintaining high standards of patient-centered care. I am particularly drawn to OAPA’s focus on both professional growth and public impact. Supporting the development of PAs through education, leadership opportunities, and professional engagement ultimately strengthens the care we provide to patients and communities throughout Ohio. By fostering collaboration, advocating for the profession, and serving as a trusted resource for members, OAPA helps ensure that PAs are well-equipped to deliver high-quality, accessible, and cost-effective healthcare. Contributing to that mission is something I deeply value.
Why are you interested in serving in this specific leadership position?
I am interested in serving as President-Elect of the Ohio Association of Physician Assistants because I believe strongly in the role that OAPA plays in advancing and supporting the PA profession across our state. Through my experience as Region 5 Director, I have seen how important OAPA is in connecting members, supporting professional development, and advocating for PAs at the state level. Serving as President-Elect would allow me to contribute more broadly to these efforts while working closely with current leadership to ensure a strong and thoughtful transition into future leadership roles. The President-Elect position provides a valuable opportunity to learn the operational and strategic responsibilities of the presidency while helping support the ongoing initiatives of the organization. I am particularly interested in strengthening member engagement, supporting leadership development among PAs, and continuing to elevate the voice of our profession within healthcare and policy discussions. I would be honored to help support OAPA’s mission and work collaboratively with the Board and membership to continue building a strong future for physician assistants in Ohio.
What work or volunteer experience(s) do you have that will be helpful to OAPA service?
My professional and volunteer experiences have centered on leadership, education, and professional advocacy, all of which directly support service within OAPA. Within OAPA, I currently serve as Region 5 Director, where I have worked to increase member engagement, support regional networking opportunities, and strengthen connections between practicing PAs, students, and the organization. At the national level, I previously served as Vice President of the Association of Neurosurgical Physician Assistants, where I contributed to organizational leadership efforts including committee collaboration, strategic initiatives, and professional education within a national PA specialty organization. In my clinical role as a neurosurgery PA with OhioHealth, I work closely with physicians and multidisciplinary teams to care for complex patients. This experience has strengthened my ability to collaborate effectively and represent the PA profession within healthcare systems. As a Clinical Assistant Professor in the Ashland University PA Program, I am also involved in educating and mentoring future physician assistants, helping prepare students to enter the profession and engage in leadership and advocacy efforts. Together, these experiences have prepared me to contribute meaningfully to OAPA’s mission and leadership.
Michell McDiffett, DMSc, PA-C, DFAAPA
Signature Health, Inc.
Michell McDiffett, DMSc, PA-C, is a Distinguished Fellow of the American Academy of Physician Associates and a healthcare leader with over 15 years of experience in psychiatry, addiction medicine, and primary care. She serves as Associate Medical Director of Residential Services at Signature Health, Inc., where she leads clinical operations, supports program development, and provides care for patients with complex medical and behavioral health needs. She has contributed to PA education as a former Assistant Clinical Professor and Research and Outcomes Coordinator at Lake Erie College, focusing on accreditation, curriculum development in psychiatry and substance use disorders, and student success. She continues to serve as a preceptor for PA students. An active advocate for the profession, PA McDiffett has held multiple leadership roles within the Ohio Association of Physician Assistants and has been involved at the national level. Her work spans clinical care, education, research, and public health initiatives to improve access and outcomes for underserved populations. She holds a Doctor of Medical Science from the University of Lynchburg, PA training from Cleveland State University and Cuyahoga Community College, and a BA in Psychology from The Ohio State University.
Connect with Michell on LinkedIn
What aspect of OAPA's mission most resonates with you?
The commitment to removing obstacles strongly resonates with me because it is fundamental to the continued relevance and strength of the PA profession. Whether regulatory, administrative, or systemic, barriers limit our ability to provide timely, high-quality care. When those barriers are reduced, PAs are better positioned to practice at the top of their training, improving efficiency, expanding access, and strengthening the healthcare workforce. In Ohio, this is especially important as we work to meet the needs of diverse and often underserved populations. PAs play a critical role in extending care into communities where access may otherwise be limited. By prioritizing the removal of unnecessary restrictions and investing in resources that support both personal and professional development, we ensure that PAs remain adaptable and prepared to meet evolving healthcare demands. This mission is not just about professional advancement, it is about patient impact. When PAs are supported, patients benefit. Strengthening our profession through advocacy, education, and resource development allows us to deliver more accessible, cost-effective, and patient-centered care across Ohio.
Why are you interested in serving in this specific leadership position?
I am honored to run for President-Elect of OAPA, having previously served in this role during the challenges and uncertainty of a pandemic. Our personal and professional lives were tested, while engagement across our organization declined and progress seemed to stall. In that same moment, PAs demonstrated their essential value to the healthcare system. That experience made it abundantly clear that modernizing PA practice in Ohio is not optional. It is critical to the future of healthcare. During my term, OAPA began the important work of rebuilding engagement and advancing legislative and professional priorities. Over the past several years, those efforts have led to meaningful progress. However, our work is far from complete. If elected, I will continue to build on that momentum and my leadership will continue to focus on strengthening member engagement, advancing legislative advocacy, and removing barriers that prevent PAs from practicing at the top of their education and training. We have a clear vision: to make Ohio the premier state for PA practice. Together, we have already taken important steps toward that goal. Under my leadership, we will continue to move forward with purpose, collaboration, and determination to fully bring that vision to life in Ohio.
What work or volunteer experience(s) do you have that will be helpful to OAPA service?
My advanced study of administrative medicine and professional experience have provided valuable opportunities to develop key leadership competencies that will benefit the OAPA. I have strengthened skills in strategic thinking, systems-based practice, and evidence-informed decision-making, allowing me to approach complex challenges with a solutions-oriented mindset. In my professional roles, I have led clinical teams, supported program development, and balanced patient care with operational priorities. These experiences have enhanced my ability to collaborate, manage change, and advocate effectively for both providers and patients. I have also prioritized communication and engagement, recognizing their importance in building trust and strengthening professional communities. Together, these experiences have prepared me to advance OAPA’s mission by supporting advocacy efforts, increasing member engagement, and continuing to remove barriers to PA practice.
***** Secretary-Treasurer *****
Braden Bizon, DMSc, PA-C
NOMS
Braden Bizon DMSc is a physician assistant for NOMS healthcare's primary care team in Concord, OH. He attended Gannon University for both undergrad and graduate school, and received his Doctorate of Medical Sciences from Shenandoah University. His clinical experience is in medical aesthetics and family medicine. Outside of clinic, Braden currently serves as the provider liaison for the Ohio Society of Dermatology PAs.
What aspect of OAPA's mission most resonates with you?
I am most passionate about providing resources for the professional development of my fellow Ohio PAs. I believe that the PA role is constantly evolving, and that clinical duties are just one facet of this. PAs are well poised to step into leadership positions within healthcare systems, academia, industry, and more, and I believe that the OAPA has the ability to facilitate this transformation.
Why are you interested in serving in this specific leadership position?
I am interested in the Secretary-Treasurer position because this role has the critical responsibility of managing the OAPA's annual budget and maintaining accurate communication between the board and members. For an organization to thrive, communication is essential. I believe that I would be able to maintain these essential aspects of the organization, to allow for the OAPA to focus on the 2026 strategic goals. I am interested in the AAPA delegate role because I believe that advocacy is essential for the continued growth of our profession. This position serves to connect PAs in Ohio to the national PA community. Through these vital connections, PAs can come together to advance our profession. I want to help build these bridges because I want help to remove barrier's from the professional ambitions of PAs everywhere.
What work or volunteer experience(s) do you have that will be helpful to OAPA service?
As the provider liaison for Ohio Society of Dermatology PAs (OSDPA), it has been my job to create and maintain relationships. I have seen that these connections have massively improved the experience of our members. I believe that the roles I am applying for are, at their core, relationship focused. My previous experience should translate well to these roles. Additionally, I have served on the OSDPA's conference committee, which has helped me to develop skills in organizational leadership. I believe I have a solid base for succeeding if chosen, and look forward to continued mentorship from experienced members of the OAPA. Additionally, as a Doctorally prepared PA, I have a strong foundation in leadership theory, and believe that I can bring my own unique style of leadership to OAPA members.
***** Region 3 Director *****
Samantha M. Kibler, PA-C
Aultman Hospital
I am a certified Physician Associate with 5+ years of experience of medical practice in outpatient community hematology and oncology. I was hired as a PA-S at a private hem/onc practice and later transitioned to community hospital practice where I now work at one of their satellite hem/onc sites. I value the care we are able to provide for those unable to seek out larger facilities; especially those with transportation issues and/or lower socioeconomic situations. Outside of my clinical practice, I have a particular passion for patient advocacy and multi-disciplinary care due to my own experience as a family members caregiver. I try to make sure to highlight the importance of communication and teamwork with my fellow colleagues and staff when working with our vulnerable patient population. I have turned this passion into a further career step by advocating for a lead APP role in my department and after 2 years of working with management was able to achieve this goal and was fortunate to be hired as Lead APP for our oncology department. I continue to work closely with my fellow APPs, physicians and management staff toward a continuously improving medical team.
What aspect of OAPA's mission most resonates with you?
OAPA's mission speaks to me in multiple ways; as it should speak to every PA-C in Ohio. However, the goal of providing high-quality, cost-effective, and accessible patient care through physician assistant [associate]-physician team approach. I have been seeing the medical care system differently the past few months as my father fights his battle with cancer. As a PA-C who works in oncology at a smaller community based practice, seeing him go to a bigger facility and the care he is getting is astonishing. Personally, I feel it is sub-par and I am constantly having to advocate for him; which I feel is a big deficiency with our current health-care system. Seeing the lengths my family has had to endure to ensure he has the best care possible is difficult enough. I cannot imaging the concerns and questions and possible medical care failures the patients without such a knowledgable support system face. And I know that improving the utilization of our PA workforce including top of license care, leadership potential, and educational opportunities can make a huge difference towards bridging that gap.
Why are you interested in serving in this specific leadership position?
I would be happy to serve as either delegate for OAPA or as Regional Director for my fellow region PAs. I work closely with drug reps, management personnel and fellow PA colleagues in my current APP Lead role and have found it extremely eye-opening and rewarding. One of the most astounding things I have found throughout my career is that many advanced practice clinicians struggle with standing up for themselves, their professions, and sometimes even their patients. The number of PAs I know that have accepted disrespectful treatment, improper job tasks/responsibilities and are not only afraid but often unaware of the respect they deserve is astonishing. As PAs, we are leaders. Yet, many PAs are unaware of their own potential. Some are even unsure of what clinical aspects of their job they can and cannot do. I truly feel there is a large audience of PAs that should and need to be in touch with OAPA for their own education and career advancement. My goal as a volunteer with OAPA if elected would be to help provide further opportunities for leadership advancement within our profession.
What work or volunteer experience(s) do you have that will be helpful to OAPA service?
I have volunteered in various ways throughout my PA career including being a guest speaker at a pharmacology conference, providing clinical breast exams at our annual free breast cancer community screenings, volunteering at a local high school to discuss my career path and day-to-day duties with STEM students, and accepting interested students for shadowing and/or precepting opportunities. I also volunteered to create an onboarding program for my department prior to my APP Lead role. I have found in every single one of these volunteer opportunities that I learned and gained more from each experience than I feel I offered to those I volunteered. I feel that each experience helped me connect with new people, learn more about my leadership and communication styles, and gave me more respect for my profession and the impact we really can make.
***** Region 4 Director *****
Matthew Freado, MBA, PA-C
OhioHealth Physicians Group
I’m a passionate advocate for PAs across Ohio. Through my work with the Ohio Association of Physician Assistants, where I currently serve as Government Affairs Chair, I’ve helped lead efforts to modernize Ohio PA law, advance our profession’s title change, and push for policies that improve both PA practice and patient access to care. A big part of my advocacy is helping lawmakers understand the real-world value PAs bring to Ohio’s healthcare workforce, improving efficiency, expanding access, and helping meet the needs of Ohioans and our communities. I’m especially passionate about ensuring PAs are recognized as part of the solution to Ohio’s healthcare challenges. Beyond legislative work, I’m deeply committed to mentoring PA students and early career PAs, encouraging them to stay involved in their communities, lead with humility, and step confidently into advocacy and leadership roles. At the core of everything I do is a simple belief: when PAs are empowered to practice at the top of their training, patients, providers, and communities across Ohio all benefit.
Connect with Matthew on LinkedIn
What aspect of OAPA's mission most resonates with you?
Helping move the profession forward in a way that benefits both PAs and the patients we serve is the part of the mission that drives me most. I’ve always believed advocacy is about more than the profession itself. It’s about addressing the physician shortage and ensuring Ohioans can get timely, high-quality healthcare from providers best trained to deliver it. OAPA’s work at the Statehouse, with regulatory bodies, and within our own PA community directly shapes that future. I especially connect with the mission of empowering PAs to practice at the top of their training, because I’ve seen firsthand how outdated barriers can limit efficiency, worsen workforce shortages, and ultimately impact patient care.
Why are you interested in serving in this specific leadership position?
I’m interested in serving as Regional Director because I see a real opportunity to better connect the Columbus area PA community with the advocacy work happening at the Statehouse. Being in Columbus gives us a unique advantage. We are in the same city where legislative and regulatory decisions affecting PAs are being made every day. I want to help bridge that gap by bringing OAPA’s advocacy priorities directly to the Columbus PA community, increasing awareness, engagement, and involvement among local PAs and students. My goal is to create a stronger two-way connection: helping our region stay informed and activated while also ensuring the voices and experiences of Columbus area PAs help shape OAPA’s legislative strategy. I believe this role offers an opportunity to turn proximity into influence and make Columbus a stronger hub for PA advocacy and leadership in Ohio.
What work or volunteer experience(s) do you have that will be helpful to OAPA service?
My professional and volunteer experiences have consistently centered on leadership, advocacy, and long-term service to the PA profession in Ohio. Since graduating from PA school, I’ve had the privilege of serving OAPA in a variety of roles, including as President and, now, as Government Affairs Chair for the Ohio Association of Physician Assistants. Those experiences have given me a deep understanding of the organization’s mission, its history, and the strategic work required to advance its priorities. I’ve led legislative efforts, developed advocacy messaging, built relationships with lawmakers, and guided conversations on the modernization of PA practice and title change.
Michael J. Schetter, DMSc, PA-C
Workit Health
I graduated from Ohio University in 2009 with bachelor degrees in both psychology and biological sciences. Thereafter, I worked in the medical field, gaining experience, before enrolling in the MPAS program at The University of Findlay. After graduating in 2013, I started my PA career working in interventional pain medicine. Around 2017, I transitioned into addiction medicine and psychiatry, where I still practice full time. During the COVID-19 pandemic, I completed my Doctor of Medical Science degree at SIU Medicine. My goal is to use these learnings to advance into leadership positions within the profession.
Connect with Michael on LinkedIn
What aspect of OAPA's mission most resonates with you?
My mission as a PA aligns with that of both the AAPA and OAPA. This includes equitable care for those in underserved areas, modernization of the PA profession, and making Ohio a premier state for PA practice.
Why are you interested in serving in this specific leadership position?
I am interested in advancing from a committee, to a more formal leadership position. I have hopes of running for higher up positions down the road. While I understand that not all PAs are active in their state chapter, I feel a duty to give back, offer my skills/leadership, and be that voice the strengthen our profession.
What work or volunteer experience(s) do you have that will be helpful to OAPA service?
OAPA Conference Committee for 3 years, HRSA Grant Clinical Lead, Medical Compliance Officer
***** Region 5 Director *****
Kyley M. Keene, PA-C
University of Toledo Medical Center
I am currently a full time physician assistant at the University of Toledo Medical Center where I have been practicing for almost 3 years. I have inevitably gained incredible experience working at a non-profit, level II trauma center with trauma and surgical ICU teams serviced in majority by APP's. As I have become more comfortable practicing clinically in critical care, I have taken interest and volunteered my efforts in quality improvement through protocol review, peer education, dedicated case review and discussion, team communications, and more. Not only do I see becoming the OAPA Region 5 Director as an opportunity to broaden my own insight as a PA, but also a way to promote and support the expansion, knowledge, and success of the profession.
What aspect of OAPA's mission most resonates with you?
Being that Physician Assistants are considered to be generally trained, I believe that CME is one of the keys to becoming a highly successful PA. Personally, I am a very hands-on learner. I have benefitted greatly from stepping outside of my typical environment and perspective to learn new techniques and algorithms at CME events. In the critical care environment, I am familiar with many different focuses of medicine. I would like to offer a wide variety of focuses in CME activities. I am passionate about providing PA's in the state of Ohio with accessible opportunities to excel in their fields by creating different forms of interactive activities that fit best into their daily lives. I would like to create more access to networking for PA's in the Northwest Ohio region. I would like to create different types of events for Ohio PA's to join - from larger events to small pop up events. When practicing, I prioritize the best interests of my patients and carefully take into account how my clinical decisions may or may not affect the care plan. Furthermore, how my clinical decisions may impact the patient and hospital system financially.
Why are you interested in serving in this specific leadership position?
I was born and raised in Toledo, Ohio. I have created many relationships in the area through this profession. I want to bring empowerment and awareness to PA's in the northwest Ohio region through representation. I will make it my responsibility to communicate the needs of my fellow PA's and create change.
What work or volunteer experience(s) do you have that will be helpful to OAPA service?
Beginning my career as a PA in a field that is not necessarily beginner friendly has had many benefits. Most of which I think will be helpful to this position is that my in my current role, I have a wide range of responsibilities. I have the opportunity to admit and discharge ambulatory patients, round on floor patients, see outpatient clinic patients, lead trauma activations, assist in the OR, and all of the down-time work in between. This provides me with a bridge to relate to PA's in most professions.
***** Student Representative *****
Catherine E. Courtney, PA-S
University of Dayton
Catherine Courtney is a first-year physician assistant student at the University of Dayton where she serves as a State Chair Representative for her program’s Student Society. She graduated with highest distinction from Indiana University Bloomington in May 2025 with a Bachelor of Science in Exercise Science Kinesiology and a minor in Medical Sciences. During her undergraduate career, Catherine was a recipient of the Curtis R. Simic Scholarship for Leaders and the Kate C. Remley Memorial Scholarship. These achievements attest to her long-standing commitment to academic excellence and professional involvement. Catherine is dedicated to ensuring that student perspectives are integrated into policy discussions. She aims to leverage her insights from her current capacity as a member of the student society to contribute more substantively to the organizational growth of OAPA, ensuring that the student voice is integrated into the board's strategic decision-making. Catherine is eager to advocate for next-generation PAs by increasing student engagement in legislative efforts.
What aspect of OAPA's mission most resonates with you?
The aspect of OAPA’s mission that most resonates with me is the commitment to professional advocacy as a means of improving patient access to care. I believe that the health of Ohio’s communities is directly tied to the strength of the PA workforce. Advocacy is not simply about professional status; it is about ensuring that legislative frameworks allow PAs to practice to the full extent of their education and clinical training. When we advocate for the removal of restrictive barriers, we are ultimately advocating for our patients' ability to receive timely, high-quality medical services. As a State Chair Representative, I have gained a deeper understanding of how policy impacts the delivery of healthcare and become acutely aware that the growth of our profession depends on our ability to communicate our impact to the broader medical community. I am eager to help OAPA champion a landscape where PAs can work effectively within healthcare teams to address provider shortages and expand care to underserved populations. To contribute to OAPA’s mission, my goal is to familiarize students with current advancement efforts to secure continued protection of both our professional future and the wellbeing of the patients we serve.
Why are you interested in serving in this specific leadership position?
I am interested in serving as the Student Representative on the Board of Directors because I want to move from observing state-level issues to actively participating in the solutions. Through my student-level leadership experience both during my undergraduate career and now, I have developed a clear understanding of the communication gap that often exists between professional organizations and the student body. I am interested in using this position to bridge that gap and ensure that student perspectives are a core component of OAPA’s strategic decision-making. If selected, I aim to increase legislative literacy by developing accessible resources that translate complex state policy into actionable updates for students across Ohio. I also strive to expand membership engagement by facilitating more direct dialogue between the OAPA Board and student societies to ensure our future PAs feel invested in the organization early in their careers. Finally, I would leverage my background in leadership to empower my peers to participate in state-wide policy change efforts that address provider shortages and patient care barriers. I am ready to apply my commitment to academic excellence and my passion for professional growth to serve the OAPA Board and my fellow students.
What work or volunteer experience(s) do you have that will be helpful to OAPA service?
My professional background has provided me with a blend of clinical discipline and organizational leadership. In my clinical role as a phlebotomist, I practiced the precision and strict adherence to protocol required in healthcare while ensuring patient safety. This experience gave me a foundational understanding of the importance of maintaining high professional standards for the benefit of patient outcomes. Serving as Vice President and Secretary of the Indiana University Pre-Physician Assistant Club required me to manage large-scale communications and coordinate opportunities for professional development. These experiences honed the outreach skills I now use as a State Chair Representative. Additionally, my time as a Resident Assistant at Indiana University taught me how to navigate complex emergencies and advocate for the wellbeing of a diverse community. Navigating these high-pressure scenarios required the same empathy and objective decision-making found in clinical practice. Together, these roles have equipped me with the maturity, organizational ability, and clinical perspective necessary to represent the student body effectively and support OAPA’s mission.
***** AAPA Delegate *****
Braden Bizon, DMSc, PA-C
NOMS
Braden Bizon DMSc is a physician assistant for NOMS healthcare's primary care team in Concord, OH. He attended Gannon University for both undergrad and graduate school, and received his Doctorate of Medical Sciences from Shenandoah University. His clinical experience is in medical aesthetics and family medicine. Outside of clinic, Braden currently serves as the provider liaison for the Ohio Society of Dermatology PAs.
What aspect of OAPA's mission most resonates with you?
I am most passionate about providing resources for the professional development of my fellow Ohio PAs. I believe that the PA role is constantly evolving, and that clinical duties are just one facet of this. PAs are well poised to step into leadership positions within healthcare systems, academia, industry, and more, and I believe that the OAPA has the ability to facilitate this transformation.
Why are you interested in serving in this specific leadership position?
I am interested in the Secretary-Treasurer position because this role has the critical responsibility of managing the OAPA's annual budget and maintaining accurate communication between the board and members. For an organization to thrive, communication is essential. I believe that I would be able to maintain these essential aspects of the organization, to allow for the OAPA to focus on the 2026 strategic goals. I am interested in the AAPA delegate role because I believe that advocacy is essential for the continued growth of our profession. This position serves to connect PAs in Ohio to the national PA community. Through these vital connections, PAs can come together to advance our profession. I want to help build these bridges because I want help to remove barrier's from the professional ambitions of PAs everywhere.
What work or volunteer experience(s) do you have that will be helpful to OAPA service?
As the provider liaison for Ohio Society of Dermatology PAs (OSDPA), it has been my job to create and maintain relationships. I have seen that these connections have massively improved the experience of our members. I believe that the roles I am applying for are, at their core, relationship focused. My previous experience should translate well to these roles. Additionally, I have served on the OSDPA's conference committee, which has helped me to develop skills in organizational leadership. I believe I have a solid base for succeeding if chosen, and look forward to continued mentorship from experienced members of the OAPA. Additionally, as a Doctorally prepared PA, I have a strong foundation in leadership theory, and believe that I can bring my own unique style of leadership to OAPA members.
Jill Brown, DMSc, PA-C
University of Findlay
I am an experienced physician assistant with 20 years of clinical practice in emergency medicine. I currently serve as an Associate Professor and Associate Chair of Assessment and Student Success at the University of Findlay, where I am dedicated to preparing future PA’s for clinical excellence, leadership, and service to their communities. I earned a Bachelor of Science from the University of Findlay, Master of Physician Assistant Studies from the University of Nebraska and a Doctor of Medical Science degree from the University of Lynchburg. I have been actively involved with the Ohio Association of Physician Assistants (OAPA), currently serving on the Membership Committee, and have represented Ohio as a delegate to the American Academy of Physician Associates House of Delegates for the past two years. In this role, I have collaborated on resolution development with the Ohio delegation and participated in deliberation and voting on national policies impacting PA practice and healthcare. My combined experience in clinical practice, education and professional advocacy provides a well-rounded perspective on the evolving role of PA's in Ohio and nationwide. I would appreciate your vote in the OAPA elections to represent you at the AAPA House of Delegates.
What aspect of OAPA's mission most resonates with you?
OAPA’s mission to remove obstacles and provide resources that support both the personal and professional development of physician assistants while promoting high-quality, accessible, and cost-effective care resonates strongly with me. As both a clinician and educator, I see how barriers, whether in education, practice, or policy, can directly impact patient outcomes and the ability of PA’s to practice to their full potential. I value OAPA’s leadership and advocacy in representing PA’s and PA students, ensuring that our profession has a strong, unified voice which is essential to advancing PA practice and improving patient-centered care across Ohio.
Why are you interested in serving in this specific leadership position?
I am interested in serving in this leadership role because it provides a meaningful opportunity to represent Ohio PA’s and contribute to the advancement of our profession through thoughtful policy and advocacy. My experience as a delegate to the American Academy of Physician Associates House of Delegates has given me a strong understanding of the resolution process and the importance of collaboration in shaping national policy. Through my work in clinical practice and PA education, I bring a perspective that reflects both the realities of patient care and the needs of current and future PA’s. I value the opportunity to help ensure that policies are practical, forward-thinking, and supportive of both practicing clinicians and those entering the profession. I am particularly motivated to continue serving in this role to represent Ohio with consistency, contribute to ongoing initiatives, and help strengthen the voice of our state within the broader PA community.
What work or volunteer experience(s) do you have that will be helpful to OAPA service?
My clinical experience in emergency medicine has provided me with a practical understanding of patient care challenges, healthcare systems, and the evolving role of PA’s in high-acuity settings. In addition, my work in PA education has allowed me to mentor students, evaluate performance, and support learners through both academic and clinical transitions. I have been actively involved in advocacy efforts at both the state and national levels, including participation in advocacy days in Ohio and Washington DC. These experiences have strengthened my ability to communicate effectively with stakeholders and understand the legislative process. I have also developed an international clinical rotation in the Dominican Republic and led cultural immersion experiences in Japan, which have reinforced the importance of cultural competency and adaptability in healthcare. Finally, my current service on the OAPA Membership Committee and experience as an AAPA delegate have provided me with the insight into organization priorities, collaboration, and effective representation.
David Dzurick, PA-C
Cleveland Clinic
Hello, esteemed members of the OAPA. I have been working at the Cleveland Clinic for five years as a PA in surgery. I am the lead student preceptor for Lutheran Hospital’s surgery department and will precept 11 students this year. I am also very interested in research and am enrolled in the University of Pittsburg’s DMSc program, expected graduation 2027. I am a member of the 2026 Cleveland Clinic APRN/PA Professional Development Pathway, Research Cohort and graduated from the Leadership Pathway Cohort in 2025. I am currently working on a QI project at Lutheran Hospital From Burnout to Balance: Implementing an Educational Intervention to Increase Caregiver Knowledge of Burnout Symptoms and Treatments. I have created and presented an evidence-based literature review and grand rounds lecture series around Maslow’s hierarchy of needs to my department as a six-part project entitled Rebuilding the Temple: A Series of Investigations into Restoring the Fragmented Self. This series continues in 2026 as (B+) Be Positive: Unearthing the Self to Make Deep Connections Within Ourselves and the Ever-changing World Around Us. Finding ways to connect with patients and coworkers to help make them the best possible versions of themselves is my highest and most rewarding priority!
What aspect of OAPA's mission most resonates with you?
I absolutely echo the OAPA when it comes to promoting the personal excellence of each and every Ohio PA by building them up from the inside out. When we take care of and invest in ourselves, ascending towards self-actualization, we are able to ensure lifetime professional growth on a stable foundation. Within this strength, we then deliver the deepest, most empathetic and targeted personal care to our patients.
Why are you interested in serving in this specific leadership position?
I have had incredible experiences and made lasting memories and lifetime friends as a former HOD representative. I am familiar with the procedure of the HOD assemblies and have made many connections with delegates from other states who are crucial in cross sponsorship of bills and keeping Ohio in the front of the pack when it comes to introducing and passing groundbreaking legislation. I am also proud of the work our OAPA leadership has accomplished and would love nothing more than to continue to increase the power and recognition of Ohio on the national stage.
What work or volunteer experience(s) do you have that will be helpful to OAPA service?
I have served as a delegate from OAPA in the last three AAPA HOD sessions, 2023-2025. The more time I spend being active in my local chapter and on the national level the more I enjoy and appreciate the opportunities to become and stay informed and empowered. Immersing yourself in the culture of advocacy is a must! Becoming part of the process freshens up my outlook on the PA profession as it gives me a different perspective and other projects to sink my proverbial teeth into. Balancing clinical life with research and volunteer opportunities delivers a much-needed sense of balance. I also attended PA Advocacy Day at the Columbus Statehouse on October 22, 2025. Being surrounded by like-minded PAs and getting to know the intricacies and nuances of meeting our representatives only furthered my interest in staying active in the OAPA and bringing our concerns to the national level for support at the AAPA!
Samantha M. Kibler, PA-C
Aultman Hospital
I am a certified Physician Associate with 5+ years of experience of medical practice in outpatient community hematology and oncology. I was hired as a PA-S at a private hem/onc practice and later transitioned to community hospital practice where I now work at one of their satellite hem/onc sites. I value the care we are able to provide for those unable to seek out larger facilities; especially those with transportation issues and/or lower socioeconomic situations. Outside of my clinical practice, I have a particular passion for patient advocacy and multi-disciplinary care due to my own experience as a family members caregiver. I try to make sure to highlight the importance of communication and teamwork with my fellow colleagues and staff when working with our vulnerable patient population. I have turned this passion into a further career step by advocating for a lead APP role in my department and after 2 years of working with management was able to achieve this goal and was fortunate to be hired as Lead APP for our oncology department. I continue to work closely with my fellow APPs, physicians and management staff toward a continuously improving medical team.
What aspect of OAPA's mission most resonates with you?
OAPA's mission speaks to me in multiple ways; as it should speak to every PA-C in Ohio. However, the goal of providing high-quality, cost-effective, and accessible patient care through physician assistant [associate]-physician team approach. I have been seeing the medical care system differently the past few months as my father fights his battle with cancer. As a PA-C who works in oncology at a smaller community based practice, seeing him go to a bigger facility and the care he is getting is astonishing. Personally, I feel it is sub-par and I am constantly having to advocate for him; which I feel is a big deficiency with our current health-care system. Seeing the lengths my family has had to endure to ensure he has the best care possible is difficult enough. I cannot imaging the concerns and questions and possible medical care failures the patients without such a knowledgable support system face. And I know that improving the utilization of our PA workforce including top of license care, leadership potential, and educational opportunities can make a huge difference towards bridging that gap.
Why are you interested in serving in this specific leadership position?
I would be happy to serve as either delegate for OAPA or as Regional Director for my fellow region PAs. I work closely with drug reps, management personnel and fellow PA colleagues in my current APP Lead role and have found it extremely eye-opening and rewarding. One of the most astounding things I have found throughout my career is that many advanced practice clinicians struggle with standing up for themselves, their professions, and sometimes even their patients. The number of PAs I know that have accepted disrespectful treatment, improper job tasks/responsibilities and are not only afraid but often unaware of the respect they deserve is astonishing. As PAs, we are leaders. Yet, many PAs are unaware of their own potential. Some are even unsure of what clinical aspects of their job they can and cannot do. I truly feel there is a large audience of PAs that should and need to be in touch with OAPA for their own education and career advancement. My goal as a volunteer with OAPA if elected would be to help provide further opportunities for leadership advancement within our profession.
What work or volunteer experience(s) do you have that will be helpful to OAPA service?
I have volunteered in various ways throughout my PA career including being a guest speaker at a pharmacology conference, providing clinical breast exams at our annual free breast cancer community screenings, volunteering at a local high school to discuss my career path and day-to-day duties with STEM students, and accepting interested students for shadowing and/or precepting opportunities. I also volunteered to create an onboarding program for my department prior to my APP Lead role. I have found in every single one of these volunteer opportunities that I learned and gained more from each experience than I feel I offered to those I volunteered. I feel that each experience helped me connect with new people, learn more about my leadership and communication styles, and gave me more respect for my profession and the impact we really can make.
Carmelo (Mel) Roxas, PA-C
CCF South Pointe Hospital
I am honored to seek your support as a delegate to AAPA House of Delegates. My journey in medicine spans 29 years—a career defined by versatility, resilience, and an unwavering commitment to patient care. Throughout these nearly three decades, I have practiced across a diverse spectrum of clinical environments, including Cardiology, Hospital medicine, Urgent Care, General Surgery, and combat Trauma. This breadth of experience has provided me with a unique perspective on the challenges and opportunities facing our profession today. I am a firm believer in the power of our collective voice. As a delegate, I have already been an active participant in shaping our future, including casting my vote in favor of the Physician Associate title change—a pivotal moment in our profession’s history. I have been present on the floor of the House of Delegates, advocating for policies that strengthen our practice and elevate our standing in the healthcare system. Beyond my clinical practice, I have dedicated my life to service. I am a three-time combat veteran and a currently serving Physician Associate officer in the United States Army. The discipline, leadership, and strategic thinking I have honed in the military are the same qualities I bring to HOD.
What aspect of OAPA's mission most resonates with you?
My career is a bridge between high-stakes military trauma medicine and complex civilian clinical practice. What resonate most for me is with the OAPA’s mission because it seeks to protect and elevate the profession that has allowed me to serve our country and our community with such distinction for 29 years. I am not just a practitioner; I am a veteran of the profession, and the OAPA’s mission to ensure the longevity and impact of the PA role is a direct reflection of my own professional legacy.
Why are you interested in serving in this specific leadership position?
I am interested in this role because I have seen firsthand how critical the PA role is to the stability of our healthcare system. I have navigated the complexities of hospital systems and the unique challenges of military medicine, and I understand the barriers that can hinder our ability to provide the best care. I want to serve in this capacity to be a voice for the ‘versatile practitioner.’ I bring a perspective that values clinical excellence, team-based leadership, and the necessity of advocacy. I am not just looking to maintain the status quo; I want to use my experience to ensure that the next generation of PAs in Ohio is empowered to practice with the same autonomy and impact that I have been privileged to exercise throughout my career. I believe my background in both civilian and military medicine gives me a unique ability to unite our members and advocate for the future of our profession with both authority and a deep sense of service.
What work or volunteer experience(s) do you have that will be helpful to OAPA service?
My work experience as a military Physician Associate and a Leader (Batallion Executive Officer) has been defined by high-stakes environments where clear communication, rapid decision-making, and team cohesion are not just goals—they are requirements for survival. I believe these experiences translate directly into the services the OAPA provides to its members: Having served in Iraq, Afghanistan, and Syria, I have operated in the most austere and unpredictable environments imaginable. This experience has taught me how to remain calm under pressure and how to lead teams through uncertainty. For the OAPA, this means I bring a perspective on how to navigate organizational challenges and advocate for our profession even when the ‘political climate’ is difficult. My 29-year career has spanned the VA Medical Center, the Cleveland Clinic, and the UH system. I have worked within the largest and most complex healthcare bureaucracies in the country. I understand the administrative, clinical, and regulatory hurdles that PAs face daily. I can use this ‘insider knowledge’ to help the OAPA develop resources and advocacy strategies that are grounded in the reality of modern hospital medicine.
