Scholarly Activity: Dr. Malliet’s Michigan Health Association Appointment
In June 2025, Dr. Ashley Malliett, DMSc, MPAS, PA-C, Clinical Coordinator of the MSU PA Medicine Department was nominated to serve on the Michigan Health & Hospital Association's Small or Rural Hospital Council for the upcoming session. This appointment reflects her ongoing dedication to improving healthcare access for underserved and rural communities across the state of Michigan. In her role at MSU, Dr. Malliett coordinates the program clinical curriculum, clinical site development and shapes the next generation of physician assistants.
Her commitment to medical education is matched by her advocacy for equitable healthcare statewide. Through her appointment to the MHA Small or Rural Hospital Council, Dr. Malliett will collaborate with Michigan healthcare leaders to address the challenges faced by rural hospitals. Her clinical and academic expertise will help to identify and drive solutions for patients and providers. Dr. Malliett's contributions to medical education and community health continues to make a meaningful impact within the PA Medicine program, and her leadership will be instrumental in MHA's mission of delivering and enhancing healthcare for Michigan's rural population.
Student Article: Class of 2027 MAPA Conference
The newly appointed Michigan State University PA Medicine Student Society for the 2027 cohort is already making waves with big plans for the year ahead. The group hit the ground running this semester with participation in the Michigan Academy of Physician Associates Fall CME Conference including a large donation of goods for Camp Kesem. This camp provides children of parents with cancer a change to be with peers going through similar experiences while enjoying camp. Members of the student society have expressed excitement about their new roles and shared what motivated them to get involved.
Macey Wierenga, PA-S, President of the society, shared her goals:
“My role is the President of the PA Medicine Student Society. I decided to run for this position because I felt that it would be a really great opportunity to challenge myself and grow professionally as a leader. I am very excited for this upcoming year to be able to make a difference in our experience as PA students at MSU and in the PA community as a whole!
In the next year, I desire for our class to grow involvement in community outreach, as well as increase collaboration with MSUCOM organizations.”
Megan Przybysz, PA-S and Community Outreach Chair, expressed enthusiasm for her role:
“I am excited to connect the MSUCOM PA program to our surrounding communities! My main goal while in this role is to get my cohort more involved in the community and spread knowledge on the PA profession!”
Hayden Stauffer, PA-S, Secretary, shared his motivation for joining:
“I decided to run for secretary because I believe in giving back and getting involved in my community. Michigan State is a very special place to me, so I wanted to get more involved in our program and help improve it in any way I can.”
As the Class of 2027 moves forward this year, they aim to foster community engagement and provide even more opportunities for leadership among PA students. The future looks bright for MSU’s PA Medicine Class of 2027.
Research: Prof. Storts Student Success Focused Research
Assistant Professor Adam Storts, M.S., PA-C, with the MSU PA Medicine Program is leading a student-focused research collaboration with Old Dominion University’s Health Sciences Department along with several other institutions that is aimed at improving student success in PA education.
This study examines how undergraduate student academic performance influences outcomes once a student begins PA school. Drawing on data from a total of 524 subjects and a collection of more than 33,000 individual data points, this research analyzes prior coursework, including subjects such as anatomy, pharmacology, and pathophysiology, which often present challenges for PA students. By studying these trends, this research hopes to allow all PA faculty to identify patterns in individual students’ applications that warn of potential academic risks to allow for interventions, support, and improved educational outcomes.
Professor Storts, who also serves as the Admissions Coordinator for the MSU PA Programs, believes this research has the potential to better prepare students for success and enhance the overall effectiveness of PA training.
- Written by Zainab Faessal, PA Medicine Curriculum Assistant