EDGE-PA Program Recognized at American Association of Physician Associates Annual Meeting
The EDGE-PA (Empowering Diversity, Growth, and Excellence in PA Education) program at Charles R. Drew University received the Diversity Award at the 2026 American Association of Physician Associates (AAPA) annual meeting for its efforts to expand access to and strengthen representation within the Physician Assistant (PA) profession.
“This award validates the importance of intentional mentorship, academic support, and opportunity creation for talented students who have historically faced barriers entering the PA profession, while reflecting CDU’s longstanding commitment to health equity and creating a health care workforce that better reflects and serves our communities” said founding program director Dr. Lucy Kibe,. “This recognition demonstrates that innovative solutions developed at CDU can have a meaningful impact on the future of healthcare nationally.”
EDGE-PA was one of only 10 honorees to receive an Individual Excellence Award for their outstanding contributions to patient care, policy, career advancement, and community.
Award recipients exemplify “the very best of our profession — they are driven, forward-thinking, and deeply committed to improving health care outcomes in their communities and beyond,” said AAPA President and Chair of the Board Dr. Todd Pickard. “Their work — whether in education, research, or clinical practice — demonstrates how PAs are shaping the future of healthcare. They set a powerful example of leadership, innovation, and service at a time when PAs are needed most.”
“What sets EDGE-PA apart is we focus on removing barriers across the entire pathway to PA school, not just recruitment,” said Dr. Kibe. “We provide structured mentorship, application guidance, personal statement review, mock interviews, admissions preparation, financial support, networking opportunities, and continued support after students matriculate.”
Since its launch in 2021, EDGE-PA has helped aspiring physician assistants secure hundreds of interviews and numerous acceptances to PA programs across the country. Learn more about the program and how to join.