Ron L. Nelson Award of Achievement

Nomination Form

Who was Ron L. Nelson, PA-C?

Ron was born and raised in Michigan and worked in healthcare early on and would receive training to become a physician assistant. Ron practiced the art of medicine in various rural settings in Michigan and had a passion for his patients and their health. Ron’s desire to help those in rural areas translated into his development and active participation in the Michigan Association of Rural Health Clinics. He helped establish the national Association of Rural Health Clinics and served in its leadership.

He served as president of MAPA for one term and as president of AAPA for two terms.  He was appointed by the Governor of Michigan to sit on the Michigan Board of Osteopathic Medicine and was appointed by President George W. Bush to serve on the National Advisory Committee on Rural Health & Human Services.

Ron joined the faculty at Central Michigan University and was preceptor to PA students from CMU, WMU and GVSU. Ron won numerous awards and recognitions for his service, but it was his love for helping others, especially those within the profession; he was the consummate motivator. Countless leaders in the PA profession owe their start to Ron; he was a visionary, pioneer and advocate for PAs.