Pacific Northwest University of Health Sciences

Sponsored content by Pacific Northwest University

𝐁𝐮𝐢𝐥𝐝𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐚 𝐁𝐞𝐭𝐭𝐞𝐫 𝐇𝐞𝐚𝐥𝐭𝐡 𝐂𝐚𝐫𝐞 𝐒𝐲𝐬𝐭𝐞𝐦—𝐅𝐫𝐨𝐦 𝐖𝐢𝐭𝐡𝐢𝐧

The people who come to PNWU don’t just dream of a better health care system—they help build it. Many have seen its challenges firsthand, and they respond with action and purpose.

They make it their mission to create change from within and bring healing where it’s needed most. They don’t wait for someone else to fix what’s broken—they choose to care, and that choice unites our entire community.

Learn more: https://tinyurl.com/yrvttvvn

We're now accepting applications for Fall 2027 for our Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) program! Be part of the next generation of healers. Learn more about the program below:

➡https://www.pnwu.edu/admissions/pt/

Sponsored content by Pacific Northwest University

𝐁𝐮𝐢𝐥𝐝𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐚 𝐁𝐞𝐭𝐭𝐞𝐫 𝐇𝐞𝐚𝐥𝐭𝐡 𝐂𝐚𝐫𝐞 𝐒𝐲𝐬𝐭𝐞𝐦—𝐅𝐫𝐨𝐦 𝐖𝐢𝐭𝐡𝐢𝐧

The people who come to PNWU don’t just dream of a better health care system—they help build it. Many have seen its challenges firsthand, and they respond with action and purpose.

They make it their mission to create change from within and bring healing where it’s needed most. They don’t wait for someone else to fix what’s broken—they choose to care, and that choice unites our entire community

Learn more: https://tinyurl.com/yrvttvvn

Yakima Herald-Republic A view from the Valley.

After more than a decade of dedicated leadership, PNWU extends our deepest gratitude to Thomas A. Scandalis, DO, as he retires as Dean of the College of Osteopathic Medicine.

Since joining PNWU in 2013 and becoming Dean in 2014, Dr. Scandalis has guided the COM with vision, purpose, and a commitment to its mission: preparing physicians to serve rural and medically underserved communities.

Under his leadership, PNWU-COM has achieved remarkable milestones:
• Earned a rare 10-year accreditation, reflecting excellence in osteopathic medical education
• Consistently ranked among the top 10 medical schools nationally for graduates serving rural areas, in primary care, and underserved communities

Dr. Scandalis’ legacy will be seen in the PNWU DO physicians making a difference in communities across the Northwest and beyond.

Thank you, Dr. Scandalis, for your leadership, your mentorship, and your lasting impact on PNWU and the communities we serve.

Please join us in celebrating Dr. Scandalis' remarkable career and wishing him well in retirement.

Growing up in West Texas, Dr. D. Keith Watson saw firsthand the difference one rural physician could make in the life of one family and their community.

That experience shaped not only his career in osteopathic medicine, but his lifelong commitment to improving access to care in rural and underserved communities.

As President of PNWU from 2012 to 2018, Dr. Watson helped guide a season of significant growth while continuing to champion the mission that mattered most to him: preparing physicians to serve where they are needed most.

Those who knew him remember his humility, mentorship, and unwavering belief in the power of compassionate care. Though his work impacted countless lives, he never lost sight of the fact that health care happens one mom, one retiree, and one child at a time.

We honor Dr. Watson’s life, leadership, and enduring legacy at PNWU and beyond.

Read more about Dr. Watson's legacy on our website: https://www.pnwu.edu/blog/2026/06/02/honoring-dr-keith-watson/

Every future physician has a story. Student Doctor Andrea Perttula’s began with a desire to help people through their most difficult moments.
As a volunteer crisis counselor, Andrea heard firsthand how mental health, access to care, and human connection shape overall well-being. Those experiences, combined with seeing physician shortages in her home state of Idaho, inspired her to pursue medicine.
At Pacific Northwest University of Health Sciences, Andrea found a mission that aligned with her values: serving rural and medically underserved communities with compassion and purpose.
Read how Andrea is preparing to become the kind of doctor who listens deeply and cares for the whole person.

🔗 Read the full story: https://www.pnwu.edu/blog/2025/10/16/mission-fit-spotlight-andrea-perttula-pnwu-com-class-of-2029/?utm_source=Facebook&utm_medium=social&utm_campaign=mission_fit_andreaperttula-26

Congratulations to the PNWU Class of 2026! We couldn’t be prouder of you, and we're so excited to see the difference you’ll make in the world.

This graduating class represents nearly 200 new physicians, occupational therapists, and physical therapists who are starting healthcare careers with a mission to serve where it’s needed most.

Congratulations to these outstanding graduates!

Today, we celebrate the remarkable achievements of the PNWU Class of 2026!

In the morning, we recognize graduates from Master of Arts in Medical Sciences, School of Occupational Therapy, and School of Physical Therapy.

Our afternoon ceremony honors graduating students from the College of Osteopathic Medicine and Military Promotions.

Live streaming will be recorded and available to view at https://www.pnwu.edu/commencement-live-stream

Meet Maverick!

Pacific Northwest University of Health Sciences is proud to officially introduce our mascot: the Mustang!

A symbol of strength, freedom, endurance, and resilience, the mustang reflects the pioneering spirit that defines PNWU and our mission to educate healthcare professionals who will serve rural and underserved communities throughout the Pacific Northwest.

Rooted in the heritage of the Yakima Valley and the Yakama Nation, the Mustang represents our connection to this land and our commitment to making a lasting impact on community health.

Please join us in welcoming Maverick the Mustang to the herd! 🎉

Read more about Maverick here: https://www.pnwu.edu/mustangs/?utm_source=facebook&utm_medium=social&utm_campaign=maverick-mustang_26