Raquelle Akavan, DMSc, PA-C, is a nationally recognized physician associate educator, innovator, and community leader whose professional journey has meaningfully advanced PA education, leadership, and advocacy. She is the founder and president of PA Moms, a national organization dedicated to supporting, educating, and empowering physician associate mothers across all career stages. Additionally she co-founded the AAPA caucus PAs for Women Empowerment in 2021.
Born and raised in New York, Akavan developed a passion for science and helping others at an early age. She earned her Bachelor of Science degree from the State University of New York (SUNY) at Oneonta in 2008, which provided a strong foundation for her future in healthcare. Drawn to the versatility and patient-centered nature of the physician associate role, she went on to earn her Master of Science in Physician Assistant Studies from Pace University–Lenox Hill Hospital in 2011.
Following her graduation, Raquelle Akavan began her clinical career in surgery, gaining extensive experience in orthopedics and neurosurgery, as well as spine, plastic, and general surgery. She held several key positions throughout her clinical career, including Lead Neurosurgical PA at Jacobi Medical Center, a Level I trauma center in the Bronx, New York. Her early career was distinguished by clinical skills, compassion for patients, and dedication to multidisciplinary teamwork.
Akavan later transitioned into medical education, bringing her clinical expertise and leadership skills to the academic setting. From 2021 to 2024, she served at South University in Austin, Texas, first as director of Clinical Education and then as principal faculty and assistant professor, where she played a central role in curriculum design, accreditation preparation, and student mentorship. In 2024, she joined the University of Lynchburg’s Doctor of Medical Science (DMSc) program as an assistant clinical professor, later advancing to director of Innovation and Strategic Initiatives.
Throughout her career, Akavan has received numerous awards recognizing her leadership and service, including America’s Top PA (Point of Care Network [POCN], 2023), the Educational Leadership Award (University of Lynchburg, 2024), and Mother of the Year® Texas (American Mothers, Inc., 2024). She was also the recipient of the AAPA Constituent Organization Outreach and Advocacy Award (2021) and the Gilda Murray Scholarship Award (2022) from the Texas Business and Professional Women’s Foundation.
Akavan continues to be a visible and respected leader in the PA community through her ongoing faculty role at the University of Lynchburg and her national advocacy with PA Moms. Her career reflects a steadfast commitment to educational excellence, professional empowerment, and community-driven leadership that continues to shape the future of the physician associate profession.
To watch Dr. Raquelle Akavan’s 2026 Masterclass interview, please click here.
Acknowledgements
This biography was prepared by Debra Munsell with the assistance of Dr. Raquelle Akavan. It was submitted to the Society in October 2025. Photographs are provided courtesy of Dr. Akavan.
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