The Diversity committee supports the Maryland Academy of Physician Assistants Mission “To promote and support the Physician Assistant profession in Maryland through communication, education and legislative efforts” through the following efforts:

• Recruitment of Minorities into the Physician Assistant Profession – Diversity within a profession promotes excellence.  The committee will continue to partner with Historically Black Colleges and Universities, Hispanic Serving Institutions, and Diversity Representatives on College Campuses and high schools to provide resources and support for students interested in pursuing a Physician Assistant career.
• Project Access – Reaching out to high schools and colleges through Project Access, we are planting a seed that will inspire many minority students to pursue a career in medicine and give them hope that anything and everything is possible.  We have several high school and college partners in which members will provide an interactive, fun, and informative presentation surrounding the physician assistant career, educational process, and funding opportunities.
• Retention of a diverse pool of students within Physician Assistant programs – The committee will work on creating a mentorship program with current MdAPA members that may be utilized by students.  We will also work on scholarship and financial resources for students.
• Resources for Maryland Physician Assistants – The committee will provide ongoing CME, reports, webcasts, events related to health disparities, diversity in the workplace, and social determinants of health.

For further information, please contact diversity@mdapa.org