Celebrating Excellence in PA Education

The PARSEC Awards recognize and celebrate the outstanding contributions of individuals who advance the Physician Assistant (PA) profession in Canada through education, mentorship, research, and leadership. These prestigious awards highlight the dedication and impact of educators, researchers, and advocates who shape the future of PAs, ensuring excellence in patient care and professional development.

Each award is a testament to the vital role these individuals play in fostering a strong and thriving PA community. Whether through innovative teaching, groundbreaking research, or steadfast mentorship, PARSEC honors those who go above and beyond to elevate the profession.

Explore our awards and discover how we celebrate those who make a lasting difference in PA education and scholarship.

PA Educator of the Year

The PA Educator Award is a prestigious recognition for an individual who has significantly influenced the education of Physician Assistants (PAs) in Canada. Eligible individuals for this honour are those actively engaged in teaching PA students, either in clinical settings or academic institutions. Potential awardees can range from PA program faculty and clinical preceptors to guest facilitators and course instructors, originating from varied professional backgrounds, including PAs and physicians, among others.

Nominations for the award are grounded in the competencies laid out by the CAPA National Competency Profile (CanMEDS-PA), tailored to reflect the specific roles of a PA educator. The CAPA board maintains discretionary power to withhold the award if nominees do not meet the established criteria fully.

Nominees must be beyond the bracket of previous winners in the last five years and cannot be current CAPA Board Members. Nominations can be made by current CAPA and PARSEC members, with the stipulation that self-nomination is not permitted. This award, therefore, not only celebrates excellence in PA education but also emphasizes the community's role in identifying and acknowledging outstanding contributors to the field.