Meade, Kansas – August 7,  2025 –  Artesian Valley Health System (AVHS) in Meade, Kansas, is proud to announce that Melissa Whitney, PA-C, has been named Preceptor of the Year for 2025, in recognition of exceptional mentorship and contribution to the clinical education of future physician assistants. This prestigious award is presented annually to a preceptor who exemplifies excellence in clinical teaching, supports student growth, and fosters a positive and inclusive learning environment.

 

"Melissa graduated from Wichita State's PA program in 2012. She started her career in Cardiology here in Wichita before moving into Orthopedics. Today, she practices at Meade District Hospital in Meade, Kansas, where she's not only the go-to for Family Medicine, but also covers the Emergency Room and inpatient care. She also takes on locums shifts in ERs all across Kansas. If that isn't enough, she somehow juggles it all while being a mom to four boys. Honestly, I don't know how she does it. In Meade, she's known throughout the community as the epitome of quality healthcare. She's a major reason Meade District Hospital is such a desirable option for the thousands of residents it serves. I have had the absolute honor of working with Melissa. She truly is a PA who works at the top of her license, caring for VERY complex patients and utilizing her previous experiences in Cardiology, Orthopedics, and Emergency Medicine to provide unmatched care to a rural community. Melissa embodies what we seek to create in our students through this program. What's more is that she inspires our students to be better clinicians and better people", said Stephen Lewia, DMSc, PA-C, CAQ-EM, Assistant Professor, and Director of Clinical Education at the Department of Physician Associate at Wichita State University.

 

Melissa Whitney, PA-C, has mentored numerous PA students, providing them with hands-on clinical experience, guidance, and encouragement. Students consistently commend her for her supportive teaching style and clinical expertise. Students wrote:

 

"Melissa is a compassionate, knowledgeable, and patient provider, which made her an outstanding preceptor. During my rotation, she went above and beyond to ensure I was exposed to a variety of procedures and took the time to thoroughly teach and support me. Her guidance allowed me to grow both clinically and professionally, making it one of the best rotations."

 

Another added:

 

"Melissa was an amazing preceptor who strived to provide the best clinical experience possible, and her passion to teach is unrivaled. Her knowledge is vast and valuable, and those that learn under her are better for it."

 

The Preceptor of the Year award reflects Melissa Whitney's, PA-C, unwavering commitment to excellence in education and patient care.

About Artesian Valley Health System
Artesian Valley Health System (AVHS) is a local non-profit organization in Meade, Kansas. It serves the healthcare needs of the surrounding communities through Meade District Hospital and Meade, Montezuma, and Plains Rural Health Clinics. Established in 1951, AVHS exists to enhance the lives of those who entrust us with their care by providing an exceptional healthcare experience with compassion and quality while meeting the unique needs of all members of our community.

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