By Caitlyne Nguyen | Reporter
The Baylor Robbins College of Health and Human Science has officially hired Baylor alumni Dr. Meredith Quinene as the inaugural director of the Physician Assistant Studies program. Quinene will now be in charge of leading the recently approved program.
Quinene joined Baylor from UT Health San Antonio’s Master of Physician Assistant Studies program, where she served as the Associate Professor and Academic Coordinator since 2015. Her experience and expertise spread far and wide as a licensed physician assistant with experience in various fields, including traumatic brain injury.
“Dr. Quinene has significant experience as both an educator and a practitioner with strong involvement in the PA profession and national conversations,” Dr. Jason R. Carter, dean of Robbins College, said. “Her experiences and joyful spirit make Dr. Quinene an exceptional fit for Baylor University and the launch of this new program.”
During the May 2023 meeting, the Baylor Board of Regents approved a new master’s of Physician Assistant Studies program. The hybrid program will be held in the Robbins College of Health and Human Sciences and give students additional opportunities for graduate-level studies far and wide.
With her experience serving as Chair of the Physician Assistant Education Association Exam Development Board, Board Member for the Physician Assistant Education Association Assessment Advisory Board, and as an elected Texas delegate for the American Academy of Physician Assistants House of Delegates, Quinene is excited to jump right in.
“The physician assistant profession is ranked in the top five by U.S. News and World Report 100 Best Jobs, and it is exciting to have the opportunity to offer this high-demand career path in Baylor’s caring Christian environment,” Quinene said. “I am proud to help educate and produce healthcare providers who will fill vital roles in our medical landscape — serving individuals, communities, and the nation as a whole.”
During her time as a Baylor Bear, Quinene graduated cum laude, earning her Bachelor of Science in Education. She was also a member of the Baylor Songleaders and was a captain in her senior year. Current Pre-Physician Assistant students are excited to see what she brings to this new program as an educator and professional.
“I hope Dr. Quinene will positively impact the department of PA studies since she’s an educator and a practitioner,” Richmond junior and pre-psychology major Huy Le said. “Her knowledge of both realms will allow her to teach future PA students in a more integrated and collaborative way. I am excited to see her uplift future PA students.”
Quinene and her family have been football season ticket holders since Baylor played at Floyd Casey Stadium before the new McLane Stadium was built. She enjoys being around her family, reading and cooking, and always cheering on the Baylor Bears.
“I am so blessed and excited to return home to Baylor as the inaugural director of the Physician Assistant Studies program,” Quinene said. “This is a dream for me, and I look forward to creating new memories in the years to come.”
