Joy Dugan, MSPAS, MPH, PA-C, CEHS '12

As a clinical instructor for the College of Osteopathic Medicine and one of the newest members of Touro University California's Alumni Association Board, class of 2012 alumna Joy Dugan understands first-hand the importance of giving back to her alma mater. Read on to see what inspired her to give back to the students following in her footsteps.

Q: What is your current role at Touro?
A: My title is Clinical Instructor in the College of Osteopathic Medicine. I work full-time seeing patients and precepting students at the Touro University/Solano County Family Health Services Medical Clinic.   At the clinic, I serve as a preceptor for DO, PA, and MPH students. Within the PA program, I give clinical lectures and lead small groups in our "Clinical Applications" course.   I assist the MPH program with various academic projects from time-to-time. I also volunteer as a preceptor at the Student-Run Free Clinic (SRFC).

Q: What drew you back to our campus?
A: I always wanted to work in an academic environment where I could use my dual degrees as a Physician Assistant and Master of Public Health.   The possibility to fulfill my program's mission and work in an underserved community in primary care was also a factor. Also, the opportunity to precept students at the SRFC drew me back to campus. As one of the co-founders of the SRFC, it is humbling to come back after three years and see how much it has grown since it's foundation.

Q: How was your experience as a student at Touro?
A: Between being the PA Class President, co-founder of the SRFC, member of multiple clubs, and student representative to the state's PA professional organization, I was always busy. Because of my involvement in multiple campus activities, I had the opportunity to work closely with students and faculty from all colleges. The interprofessional activities made my time at Touro all the better. I cannot talk about my experience at Touro without mentioning my classmates. The PA 2012 class was very closely knit and ultimately I think that bond made me a better PA. Being a PA is all about being a team-player, and as a class we were one big team with the objective of becoming the best PAs possible. As with any team, we had amazing coaches, the PA faculty and staff. Their dedication to my education and professional development are part of why I am now working at Touro. My hope is to inspire and challenge students as the faculty did for me.

Q: Why did you decide to get involved in the Alumni Association?
A: I work closely with the Alumni Association's President, Dr. Tami Hendriksz at the Touro University/Solano County Family Health Services Clinic. I admired Dr. Hendriksz as a student and now as a colleague, so I was honored when she asked me to join the Alumni Association Board. Being involved in the Alumni Association is another way to give back and be involved in the Touro family. I look forward to expanding our alumni opportunities as our number of alumni grows.

Q: Do you have any initiatives you’d like to see completed while on the Alumni Association Board?
A: I would like to see continued interprofessional opportunities and more networking among alumni. Maybe CME opportunities and more community service options. I'm excited for the Alumni Association sponsored bike ride along SF East Bay's Iron Horse Regional Trail on October 20th.

Q: What would you say to your fellow alumni to encourage them to give back to the students following in their footsteps?
A: One word: precept! Even if it is only one time, it's an important way to give back to current Touro students.