Why Interprofessional Education?
IPE fosters collaboration among students in diverse health disciplines, such as Physician Assistant (PA), Physical Therapy (PT), and Public Health (PH). These experiences prepare future health professionals for team-based, patient and community-centered care by emphasizing roles, effective communication, emphasis on team dynamics, and ethical practice.
Interprofessional Education Events

IPE events involve activities like case-based learning with standardized patients and addressing real-world health challenges, such as navigating social determinants of health. These sessions provide students with hands-on opportunities to understand professional roles and the value of integrated approaches to health and healthcare.

During a recent event, students collaborated on functional assessments, communication strategies, and public health messaging. IPE aligns with Arcadia's commitment to advancing equity and innovation in the health professions.
New Interactive Approach to Interprofessional Education
Nearly 200 students from Arcadia University’s College of Health Sciences (CHS) participated in a large-scale, in-person, Interprofessional Education (IPE) event on March 2. This year’s event took a new interactive approach to provide exposure to real-world scenarios through a 90-minute activity with four rotating 15-minute small-group exercises centered around the theme of women’s health clinics.
The IPE event brought students from the Physician Assistant, Hybrid and Residential Physical Therapy, and Online and Residential Master of Public Health programs together to engage in deeper discussion, gain an understanding of each profession’s perspective, and build rapport with one another. Read More

State-of-the-Art Simulation Center
Located at 125 Royal Avenue, our Simulation Center provides a cutting-edge setting for students to immerse themselves in realistic clinical experiences. Equipped with advanced video technology, the center enables students to reflect on their performance through recorded sessions, fostering a deeper understanding of their strengths and areas for growth. This hands-on, high-fidelity environment ensures that students leave our programs confident in their ability to provide exceptional, collaborative care in real-world settings.
This innovative approach underscores Arcadia University’s commitment to preparing healthcare professionals who are not only clinically competent but also equipped to address the complexities of modern patient care with compassion and collaboration.
Our Interprofessional Team
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Margaret L. LongacreDean, College of Health SciencesPhone (215) 572-8547Email longacrm@arcadia.edu
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Samantha J. BalistreriProgram Director of Health Sciences and Assistant Professor of PracticeEmail balistreris@arcadia.edu
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Michelle J. ThalAssistant Professor/Assistant Director of Didactic Education/Academic CoordinatorEmail thalm@arcadia.edu
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Suzanne Redington, DrPH, MPH, CPHMaster of Public Health DirectorPhone (215) 572-4014Email RedingtonS@arcadia.edu
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Kevin BasileAssistant Professor/Associate Program Director - Didactic EducationPhone (215) 572-2193Email basilek@arcadia.edu
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Jessica MahoneyAssistant Professor of Practice, Director of Arcadia University Pro Bono ClinicEmail mahoneyj@arcadia.edu
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Dené Mitchell, MPHGraduate Courses Coordinator and Student Engagement ManagerPhone (267) 620 - 4841Email MitchellD@arcadia.edu
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Sophie M. FarleyAssistant Professor/Clinical Coordinator/Co-Director of AdmissionsShe/HerEmail farleys@arcadia.edu
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Zachary T. WeikAssociate Professor / Director of Clinical EducationHe/Him
CHS in the News
Arcadia Physical Therapy Remains #1 in Philadelphia Region in 2026 U.S. News & World Report Rankings
Physical Therapy Faculty, Staff, and Alumni Represent Arcadia at American Physical Therapy Association Annual Meeting









