College News
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School of Physician Assistant Studies
CELEBRATING MILESTONES
In June, the UF School of Physician Assistant Studies joined students and families to
celebrate milestones in PA education. Each of the 61 members of the class of 2020
donned a UF Health white coat for the first time during the 12th annual White Coat
Ceremony, held June 7 in the Health Professions, Nursing & Pharmacy Building. A
“words of wisdom” card offering advice and encouragement from alumni was placed
in each student’s coat pocket.
“Strive to keep the excitement and energy that has gotten you this far,” wrote Hector
Bird, MPAS ’15, on student Jarrod Kearney’s card. “While the system often demands
otherwise, focus on your patients and show them you care.”
Just two weeks later, 59 members of the UF School of PA Studies class of 2019 joined
the alumni family during the annual commencement ceremony, held June 22 in
University Auditorium.
COMMENCEMENT PHOTOS BY DEVIN KELLY, PA CLASS OF 2020 | WHITE COAT PHOTOS BY JESSE S. JONES
“To be a Gator PA feels like I’m part of a bigger
family — every step of the way, I felt like we were
taught to be our best,” said Ellen Toneff, MPAS ’19,
the recipient of the Steven Kraft, MD, and Randy Kraft
Award, which recognizes a graduating student for
academic and clinical excellence.