PA Program: Student Society

M.U.P.A.S.S.

Marywood University Physician Assistant Student Society

M.U.P.A.S.S. is an organization comprised of Physician Assistant students. This organization is committed to increasing awareness of the PA profession and promoting health and wellness on campus, in the community and on a national level. The members of this society will participate in health related awareness activities, conferences as well as encourage service and scholarship by its members.

MUPASS officers:

• President: John Strickler, PA-S
• Vice President: Kara Cordaro, PA-S
• Secretary: Mollie Bash PA-S
• Treasurer: Megan Branche/Valerie Dressel  PA-S
• Student Representative: April Gonzales/Mike Maritato PA-
• Faculty Advisor: Lori E. Swanchak, PhD, PA-C

In recognition of PA Day, MUPASS organized a free blood pressure screening. Information on hypertension and osteoporosis was also provided. In addition, PA Day marked the kick-off of the Cookbook fundraiser.

The event was held in the Rotunda, LAC, at Marywood University.

Lori Swanchak, MPAS, PA-C received the 2006 Student Academy of the AAPA President's Award. This award honors a PA who has demonstrated exemplary service to PA students and has furthered the leadership, educational, or professional development of PA students. This recognition award was announced during the National Conference in San Francisco, California in May 2006.

MUPASS organized a health fair at the local YMCA. The students provided information on High Blood Pressure, and performed blood pressure screenings. In addition, they gave a mini-lecture to the youngsters on heart health habits, as well as provided face painting and balloons!

MUPASS in conjunction with Northeast Regional Cancer Institute (NRCI) participated in the 2nd annual CASUAL (Colon cancer Awareness Saves Unlimited Adult Lives) Day, on Wednesday, March 30th, 2005. The program, in memory of Helen Phillips, was designed to raise awareness about the risks and prevalence of colon cancer as well as to raise money for research and educational programs in NEPA. MUPASS raised over $700.00 for this worthy cause!

MUPASS collected and distributed over 2000 books in a health literacy campaign in recognition of PA DAY, October 2004. This was one of the most successful campaigns to date! Students and faculty even appeared on the morning news to promote this event!