Kimberly Erikson ’04M, ’26EdD has experienced Arcadia University from several different angles, first as a Physician Assistant student, then as a faculty member who has recently obtained her EdD through Arcadia’s Doctorate of Education in Organizational Leadership, which is helping shape the future of healthcare education. Dr. Erikson works as an Associate Professor/ Associate Program Director – Clinical within Arcadia’s Physician Assistant Program.

“I chose Arcadia because of its strong commitment to student-centered learning, social justice, and the development of compassionate healthcare professionals,” she said. “My decision to pursue my doctoral degree here was a continuation of that alignment, as the EdD program provided the opportunity to integrate leadership, scholarship, and educational innovation within the same institution that shaped my professional foundation.”

The York, Pa., native has already seen the impact of her studies on her work.

“My time at Arcadia has provided me with a comprehensive professional identity as a clinician, educator, and leader,” Erikson said. “I have gained expertise in curriculum design, assessment, accreditation, and educational scholarship, while also developing a strong commitment to equity, mentorship, and the advancement of healthcare education.”

For Professor Erikson, finding a balance between being a doctoral student and a leader in the PA program presented certain challenges. She took those challenges in stride, knowing that the hardships would only help her in the long run.

“One of the most significant challenges I have overcome was completing my doctoral degree while simultaneously leading high-stakes programmatic and institutional initiatives, including accreditation and governance during the COVID-19 pandemic,” she said. “This experience required resilience, adaptability, and sustained commitment to both academic and professional excellence.”

The many hats she wears leave Professor Erikson feeling deeply connected to Arcadia, both professionally and personally.

“As an alumna of the Physician Assistant Program, I have had the unique opportunity to contribute to the same institution that shaped my career,” she said. “Over time, I have grown from student to faculty member and program leader, allowing me to support the development of future clinicians while strengthening the program’s curriculum, assessment systems, and commitment to equity.”

Dr. Erikson plans to continue building on her dissertation research and expanding her scholarly work in healthcare education following graduation, while also taking time to recharge with family.