Clinical Associate Professor of PA Studies and Program Director
Dr. Larson has extensive experience in the field of medicine, beginning in 1996 as a medic for the United States Air Force. After serving eight years on active duty, she returned to the Buffalo area to serve as the practice administrator for Kinkel Neurologic Center. Dr. Larson went on to pursue her dream of working as a physician assistant (PA) at D’Youville University where she received her bachelor and master of science in physician assistant studies. She previously earned a bachelor of science in health care services from the University of Phoenix while in the military.
Prior to her hire as the inaugural program director for the physician assistant program at Canisius, Dr. Larson worked in a number of clinical settings in the Buffalo area with a focus in primary care, neurology, and internal medicine. Her passion is in service to the underserved, with a special focus on improved care of military veterans. Education has always been very important to her, including active work as an educator and evaluator during her time in the military as well as serving as a clinical preceptor for D’Youville University PA students. Most recently, she earned a Doctor of Medical Science (DMSc) degree from the University of Lynchburg with a concentration in higher education. Dr. Larson has been committed to the recruitment of students from underrepresented backgrounds who will go on to serve in their communities of need when they graduate. This includes teaching about social justice in health care throughout the program as well as pursuing financial support for students who may otherwise be unable to pursue their dream of becoming a physician assistant.
In her free time, she enjoys spending time outdoors with her husband and three children, scuba diving and other fun adventures, and cooking new cuisines.