Alumna, Faculty Member Saje Davis-Risen Named Director of PA Studies
Saje Davis-Risen, PA-C, has been named director of the Pacific University School of Physician Assistant Studies, effective Jan. 1, 2022.
She has been serving in the role on an interim basis since July 1, 2021. She succeeds Dr. Mary Von, who is now vice provost and executive dean of the College of Health Professions.
“Saje has proven herself to be an engaged leader of program students, faculty and staff,” said Dr. Ann Barr-Gillespie, Pacific University provost and vice president of Academic Affairs. “I can think of no better director for the School of PA Studies, and I know that Saje will continue the distinguished history of providing the highest level of medical education for our students, as well as engaged support for school faculty and staff.”
Professor Davis-Risen received her master of science in physician assistant studies at Pacific in 2006. Prior to returning to Pacific to join the faculty in 2011, she served as a clinician in pediatric medicine for the Puyallup Tribe and worked in emergency medicine in a critical access hospital and in neurosurgery in a Level 2 trauma center.
At Pacific, she has served in both clinical and didactic teaching positions, developed and led the Global Healthcare Track and most recently served as associate dean of interprofessional education for the College of Health Professions. Her scholarship is focused on interprofessional education, global health, and the scholarship of teaching and learning. She also has served nationally on the House of Delegates for the American Association of Physician Assistants for the last nine years and most recently served as the immediate past president of the Oregon Society of Physician Assistants.
“I am honored to be chosen to be the director of the School of Physician Assistant Studies,” said Davis-Risen. “I look forward to the opportunity to work with the exceptional staff and faculty of the school to further the mission and vision and to mentor a new generation of PA’s.”