UMHB Physician Assistant Program

What a special day celebrating our students from Cohorts 4, 5, and 6 being dubbed Crusaders Forever! 💜

Cohort 5 gathered at Convocation to kick off the 2025-2026 academic year! We’re praying for all students to have a successful, fun semester! 💜💛

Several of the UMHB PA Alumni attended a life changing Medical Mission Trip to Kenya this summer!! 💜💛🩺

Thank you to all the students, staff, and faculty who helped complete this needed task!

Cohort 3 enjoyed their Graduation Dinner which was an evening filled with joy, celebration, and accomplishments.

The images reflect heartfelt moments—laughter over dinner, speeches that brought tears and applause, and photos that mark the end of one journey and the beginning of another.

Congratulations Graduates!! 💜💜💜

Cohort 5 attended the 2nd Annual Donor Honor Ceremony presented by the students and residents of Baylor College of Medicine - Temple, University of Mary Hardin Baylor and Baylor Scott & White Medical Center - Temple.

The event is a tribute to the lives of the anatomy donors, honoring their invaluable contribution to the education of future healthcare providers.

UMHB PA Alumni Spotlight: Eric Pfister, MSPA, PA-C

Eric Pfister, MSPA, PA-C, is making a significant impact in emergency medicine as a Physician Assistant at Metropolitan Methodist Hospital in downtown San Antonio. Working in a fast-paced, high-acuity environment, Eric sees more than 30 patients per shift, managing a wide spectrum of cases. From common colds and minor injuries to complex emergencies such as diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA), acute coronary syndromes (ACS), and rare neurological conditions, Eric thrives on the dynamic nature of the emergency department. His role requires quick decision-making, collaboration with specialists, and proficiency in a variety of procedures, including laceration repairs, reductions, incision and drainage (I&D), pelvic exams, and foreign body removals.

Reflecting on his time at UMHB, Eric cherishes the lifelong friendships he built during PA school. “Some of my classmates became my coworkers after graduation, and many have remained my closest friends. Even though we now live in different cities and have pursued different career paths, I know I can always count on them for support and guidance.” These relationships, formed through shared challenges and triumphs, continue to be a cornerstone of his personal and professional life.

For current and future PA students, Eric emphasizes the importance of balance. “While school and studying should be your priority, don’t neglect other aspects of your life. Make time for family, friends, exercise, and hobbies—these will help sustain you through the demands of the program.” He also encourages students to embrace discomfort and challenges during their training. “You will be placed in situations that push your limits, and you may face criticism or minor failures. Instead of taking these personally, recognize them as opportunities for growth. These experiences will ultimately shape you into a stronger, more competent provider.”

Eric Pfister’s journey from UMHB PA student to emergency medicine provider highlights the dedication and resilience needed in this field. His story showcases perseverance, adaptability, and the lasting impact of PA school friendships.

Welcome to UMHB and congratulations to COHORT 5!—We are excited to embark on this journey with you and cannot wait to see all that you accomplish in the coming years.

UMHB PA Students Giving Back

We traveled to Ecuador on a medical mission trip to connect with ministries and communities in and around Quito and Cayambe! We completed 8 pop-up clinics in 10 days and provided a wide range of care, from prescribing Tylenol to treating diverticulitis to giving (likely) cancer diagnoses. Our cups are full, and we are so grateful to UMHB and the PA program for allowing us to provide spiritual and physical care to the people of Ecuador!

UMHB PA Program Alumni Spotlight: Shannon Webb, MSPA, PA-C

Shannon is a proud alumna of the University of Mary Hardin-Baylor’s PA Program and a shining example of how stepping out of one’s comfort zone can lead to incredible professional and personal growth. She thrives in emergency medicine at Portneuf Medical Center in Pocatello, Idaho—a Level II Trauma Center halfway between Salt Lake City and Yellowstone National Park.

Shannon works in a 27-bed emergency department, providing comprehensive care for a diverse patient population. “I handle everything from taking histories to managing care,” Shannon shares. “I collaborate closely with doctors, seeing patients with a wide range of conditions—from fast-track cases to chest pain, abdominal pain, and traumas. I also perform procedures like laceration repairs, I&Ds, splinting, reductions, and cardioversions.”

What makes her work especially unique is the diverse community the hospital serves. “Being near a Native American reservation, national forests, a college town, and large rural farming areas means I see various cases. I’ve even encountered some rare ‘zebras,’ which is exciting from a learning perspective.”

Shannon fondly recalls her time at UMHB as a growth, support, and camaraderie period. “I loved being part of the College Station group,” she says. “The relationships with preceptors, the community, and my classmates were invaluable. I’ll always treasure the call-back days, brunches after exams, and even long walks around campus. UMHB’s tight-knit atmosphere made the experience truly special.”

Her advice to future PA students is straightforward yet profound: “Don’t be afraid to step out of your comfort zone. Learn to do things scared. Take rotations in unfamiliar places, embrace the specialties that intimidate you, and trust in God’s plan—it’s always bigger than your own.”

She also emphasizes balance during the rigorous PA program. “Work out or go for a walk daily. It clears your mind and improves focus. Healthy habits like eating well and getting enough sleep can make or break you.”

Shannon’s journey from UMHB to Portneuf Medical Center is a testament to courage, adaptability, and faith. Her dedication to providing excellent care while continually learning and growing makes her an inspiration for all.

Thank you, Shannon, for representing UMHB with excellence!