Mary Von to Lead Pacific University's School of Physician Assistant Studies

Pacific University has selected Mary Von, DHEd, MS, PA-C, as the director of its School of Physician Assistant Studies. She has served as interim director since June following the departure of her predecessor, Judy Ortiz.

Von has held several positions within the school since 2003, including clinical coordinator, director of academic education and associate director.

As interim director, Von stepped into the role with enthusiasm and distinguished herself  in a very short time, said vice provost and College of Health Professions executive dean Ann Barr-Gillespie.

"Mary has shown herself not only to be a strong and committed leader to the school, but to be a thoughtful and innovative member of the College of Health Professions leadership team," Barr-Gillespie said. "She had many opportunities from which to choose from to be an academic leader, and we are very fortunate that she chose to remain here at Pacific.”

Von is a senior member on the Faculty Development Council with the Physician Assistant Education Association and is an alumna of The Institute of Engaged Leadership in Online Learning with the Sloan Consortium and Penn State World Campus.

She earned a doctor of health education (DHEd) from AT Still University of Health Sciences, a master's degree in advanced PA studies from Arizona School of Health Sciences and a PA certificate from the University of Washington School of Medicine. She is a certified physician's assistant who specializes in migraine and headache management and lifestyle counseling.

“I am fortunate to have such a dynamic and talented team here at the School of Physician Assistant Studies and look forward to building on the strong foundation developed by our three previous directors," Von said.