Dr. Alan Heckman Elected President-Elect of the Academy of Doctoral PAs

Dr. Alan Heckman, DMSc, PA-C, Founding Program Director of the Doctor of Medical Science (DMSc) program at DeSales University, has been elected President-Elect of the Academy of Doctoral PAs (ADPA).

The ADPA is a national professional organization dedicated to advancing doctoral education for Physician Associates/Assistants (PAs) and supporting leadership, advocacy, scholarship, and professional development within the profession. The organization works to promote the value of doctoral-prepared PAs in healthcare leadership, education, administration, research, and clinical practice.

As President-Elect, Dr. Heckman will help guide the organization’s strategic initiatives and continue advocating for the advancement of doctoral PA education and leadership development nationwide.

“I am deeply honored and grateful for the trust and support of my colleagues,” said Heckman. “The PA profession is evolving rapidly, and I believe doctoral education will play an increasingly important role in preparing PAs to lead within complex healthcare systems, academia, and beyond.”

At DeSales University, Dr. Heckman leads the development and implementation of the fully online DMSc program, which focuses on leadership, healthcare systems, evidence-based medicine, and professional growth for practicing PAs.

His election reflects both his commitment to advancing the PA profession and DeSales University’s growing leadership role in doctoral PA education.