Virginia L. Valentin is an Associate Professor who serves as the Department Chair for the Department of Physician Assistant studies. Dr. Valentin received her a Doctor of Public Health with a focus in epidemiology from the University of Kentucky in 2017, a Master’s in PA Studies from Barry University in 2007, a BS in Psychology from the University of Utah in 2001 and graduated from Weber State University’s nursing program in 1999.
Dr. Valentin began her PA education career at the University of Kentucky before joining the University of Utah PA faculty and served in numerous leadership roles including Division Chief. Dr. Valentin was thrilled to re-join the UK faculty in 2022.
Dr. Valentin brings a decade of PA education experience and nearly two decades of clinical experience to her work. She is passionate about PA education, administration/leadership, advocacy and research. Dr. Valentin’s goal is to integrate her PA training with her love of public health and advance the PA profession so that physician assistants are integral in solving our health inequities.
As a leader in her field, Dr. Valentin has served on numerous committees and boards including the president of Kentucky Academy of Physician Assistants, PAEA Government Relations Steering Committee, PAEA Research Mission Advancement Committee, and currently serves as a Director at Large on the PAEA nation board.
Dr. Valentin’s research focus is on the PA workforce and understanding the utilization of PAs and barriers to providing patient care. Her interests also include medical education with a particular interest in disparities and barriers to success for both students and faculty. Dr. Valentin was honored to be an inaugural AAPA-PAEA research fellow in 2017-2018. Her goal is for all PA faculty and students to engage in research that builds the knowledge of the PA profession and/or improves patient outcomes.
From Oregon to Florida to Utah, Dr. Valentin has had the privilege of living in variety of diverse communities and is pleased to call the Bluegrass state her home. Outside of work she enjoys travel and spending time with her husband and daughter.
