Emory University School of Medicine has announced the appointment of Maha B. Lund, DHSc, PA-C, as director of its Physician Assistant Program. Dr. Lund will join Emory on July 15, 2014, from the Massachusetts College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences (MCPHS) in Boston where she served as program director of the Department of Physician Assistant Studies.

"We are thrilled to announce Dr. Lund's appointment to our Physician Assistant Program," says Katherine Heilpern, MD, chair of Emory's Department of Emergency Medicine and Department of Family and Preventive Medicine. "Dr. Lund's extensive experience in developing PA educational programs, together with her focus on exceptional patient care will have a positive and lasting impact on this vital and rapidly growing program."

"I am honored and excited to lead Emory's PA Program," says Lund. "Physician assistants play an important role in solving the healthcare challenges facing our nation. I look forward to working closely with the faculty, students and broader Emory community to develop excellent clinicians, compassionate providers and trusted leaders."

Lund's leadership within the MCPHS University Physician Assistant Studies Program included development of academic standards, faculty recruitment, curriculum development, budget and accreditation.

She has been recognized by the National Honor Society for Allied Health Professionals and is an active member of the American Academy of Physician Assistants and the Physician Assistant Education Association.  

"Dr. Lund's experience with innovative curriculum development, hands-on teaching, and her emphasis on patient care will greatly benefit Emory's Physician Assistant Program and its continued excellence in graduate education," says J. William Eley, MD, MPH, executive associate dean for medical education and student affairs in Emory's School of Medicine.