Description
Founding Physician Assistant Program Director
Washington & Jefferson College, in partnership with the national search firm Scott Healy & Associates, invites applications and nominations for the position of Founding Physician Assistant Program Director. Washington & Jefferson College is seeking an innovative, mission-driven Founding Program Director to lead the development, launch, and accreditation of a new PA Studies Program.
This is an exciting opportunity to shape a program from inception - designing the curriculum, building the faculty team, establishing clinical partnerships, and creating a culture of excellence that prepares future PAs to meet the evolving needs of healthcare. The ideal candidate is a strategic thinker, an inspiring educator, and a collaborative leader with deep experience in PA education and accreditation.
Responsibilities:
Program Development & Leadership
- Lead the design, planning, and implementation of the PA program, including curriculum development, assessment strategies, and program policies.
- Oversee the ARC-PA accreditation process, including preparation of the application, self-study reports, and site visit coordination.
- Establish the program’s vision, mission, and long-term strategic goals in alignment with institutional priorities.
- Recruit, hire, mentor, and evaluate faculty and staff.
Academic & Administrative Oversight
- Ensure compliance with ARC-PA standards, institutional policies, and state/federal regulations.
- Develop and manage program budgets, resource allocation, and operational planning.
- Oversee student admissions processes, academic progression, and program evaluation.
- Foster a culture of academic excellence, professionalism, and student-centered learning.
Clinical Education Development
- Build and maintain strong relationships with clinical partners to secure high-quality clinical rotation sites.
- Collaborate with the Director of Clinical Education to ensure clinical experience meets program and accreditation standards.
Teaching & Scholarship
- Teach within the PA curriculum as appropriate.
- Engage in scholarly activity, professional development, and service to the institution and profession.
Institutional & Community Engagement
- Represent the program within the institution and to external stakeholders.
- Promote the program’s visibility and reputation through community outreach, professional organizations, and partnerships.
Qualifications:
- Graduate of an ARC-PA–accredited PA program.
- Master’s degree required; doctoral degree preferred.
- Current NCCPA certification (or equivalent for physicians).
- Eligible for licensure as a PA (or physician) in Pennsylvania.
- Minimum of 3–5 years of experience in PA education, including leadership or administrative roles.
- Demonstrated experience with ARC-PA accreditation processes.
- Strong leadership, communication, and organizational skills.
About Washington & Jefferson College:
Washington & Jefferson College has spent two and a half centuries delivering a first-rate liberal arts education that is both broad and practical, preparing students to become ethical leaders poised for professional success. As one of the oldest colleges west of the Allegheny Mountains, W&J has been educating people who go on to lead in their professions and communities since 1781. The College distinguishes itself by emphasizing continuous professional preparation and cultivating leaders committed to a standard of uncommon integrity. Ethical leadership is embedded in the institution’s DNA – shaping how students learn, work, and engage with one another – and regardless of academic pursuit, every student gains a strong foundation in leading with integrity.
W&J fosters a supportive, diverse culture where every member of the community is valued, included, and able to reach their full potential. Students build meaningful connections on campus through clubs and organizations aligned with their interests, and develop broader networks through internships, volunteer opportunities, and community partnerships. With more than 20,000 hours of community service completed last year, the College continues to lead by living, playing, and serving in its extended community.
Set on a beautiful 65-acre campus in Washington, Pennsylvania, W&J offers a setting that blends historic charm with modern resources. The campus is within walking distance of restaurants, coffee shops, and community events in a growing downtown business district, and lies just 30 miles south of Pittsburgh and all it has to offer.
About the Community:
Washington, PA, offers a welcoming blend of history, recreation, and economic strength that makes it an appealing and vibrant community. Known locally as “Little Washington,” the town was founded in 1781 and boasts a rich heritage that predates Washington D.C., including the first National Historic Landmark of the Underground Railroad, one of only a few in the nation. Residents enjoy annual traditions such as Pike Days, the Covered Bridge Festival, the Houston Pumpkin Festival, and the Washington County Fair. The area also features entertainment options like the Wild Things baseball team and the Pennsylvania Trolley Museum, along with access to dining, shopping, and outdoor activities throughout the county.
Just 30 miles south of Pittsburgh, Washington benefits from close proximity to one of the region’s most dynamic cities. Pittsburgh offers world-class museums, professional sports teams, major hospitals and research centers, a thriving technology sector, and a nationally recognized food scene. This easy access to big-city amenities complements Washington’s small-town charm and contributes to a diverse, steady local economy supported by healthcare, education, energy, and manufacturing.
Application and Nomination Process:
All correspondence relating to the position of Founding Physician Assistant Program Director at Washington & Jefferson College should be directed in confidence to the executive search consultant:
Christopher S. Healy, President
Scott Healy & Associates
A complete application should include the following:
- Cover Letter outlining your interest and qualifications for the position;
- Updated CV;
- Contact information for three (3) professional references with title, institutional affiliation, email address and direct phone numbers. (No references will be contacted without written permission from the candidate.)
Applications received by January 31, 2026 will receive priority consideration. The search will remain open until the position is filled.
Celebrating Community:
Washington & Jefferson College welcomes people of all backgrounds and beliefs who wish to participate in a diverse educational community. The College strives to be a place where all students, faculty, administrators and employees are able to live, study and work in an atmosphere free from bias and harassment. The College encourages civil debate and lively exchange of ideas in the belief that such exchanges promote understanding that will grow beyond simple tolerance of difference to embracing and celebrating the richness of diversity. Our graduates acquire knowledge and learn skills that help them thrive in a culturally diverse world.
Equal Opportunity Employer:
Washington & Jefferson College (W&J) complies with all applicable federal, state and local laws and provides equal opportunity in all educational programs and activities, admission of students and conditions of employment for all qualified individuals regardless of race, color, sex, religion, age, disability, sexual orientation, protected veteran status, gender identity, or national origin.
