James Madison University PA Students Celebrate Community Impact: Honoring Their Extraordinary Service

James Madison University’s Physician Assistant Student Society (PASS) has snagged the title of the 2025 Outstanding Student Society from the American Academy of Physician Associates. This recognition highlights their commitment to improving healthcare access in the Harrisonburg community.

Shannon Hardigree, the president of PASS, expressed her pride in the honor. She believes it reflects the hard work JMU’s PA program puts into helping those in need. “Many faculty members volunteer at our free clinic, making it special to our program. It gives PA students valuable experience before clinicals,” she said.

Throughout the year, PASS has put on various events to raise funds. Notable efforts included:

• Healthcare for the Homeless Suitcase Clinic: This initiative brings medical services directly to unhoused individuals in Harrisonburg and nearby areas.
• Free Clinic 5K: In partnership with the Blue Ridge Free Clinic, they raised nearly $6,000 to support essential medical services for the underserved and uninsured.
• Fundraising Gala: This event raised over $9,000 for local organizations like Open Doors and Our Community Place.
• Community Outreach: They engaged with local youth during Harrisonburg High School’s STEM Career Fair and held activities in elementary schools to inspire interest in medicine.
• Healthcare Policy Advocacy: Students participated in lobby day events organized by the Medical Society of Virginia, addressing key issues affecting the PA profession.

Nicolle Holgate, PASS’s vice president, reflected on the impact of their fundraising gala. “Seeing everyone who benefited from our work come together was eye-opening. It made all our efforts feel worthwhile,” she shared.

Not only did PASS receive the AAPA award, but they were also named JMU’s Outstanding Student Society of the Year. This dual recognition underscores their significant contributions to community health and student development.

In 2025, access to healthcare remains a pressing issue. A recent survey found that almost 30% of Americans struggle to afford medical care. Societies like PASS are vital in addressing these challenges through active engagement and community support.

For more insights on healthcare and its challenges, you can visit the American Academy of Physician Associates.

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