Kathy Ehrhardt: Provost’s Faculty Excellence Award Winner
Kathy Ehrhardt has not one but two big reasons to celebrate graduation this year. The assistant professor in the Physician Assistant Program and one of her students were singled out for two of the day’s most coveted awards.
“I actually was thinking that one of our PA students would win because she is great in and out of the classroom,” says Ehrhardt. “I was excited that Emily Jacobson won the Provincial Award.”
Little did Ehrhardt know that just minutes later, Brother Dan Wisniewski, OSFS, provost, would be calling her name during the virtual conferral of degrees ceremony and presenting her with the Provost’s Faculty Excellence Award for excellence in service.
The award recognizes Ehrhardt’s outstanding contributions for the good of her academic program, DeSales University, her professional organizations, and the wider community. She was nominated by members of the faculty, staff, and administration.
“I am very honored to win the award. I actually got very tearful, so I’m glad that wasn’t live. The PA program has been a labor of love the entire time I’ve been there. I don’t do it for any recognition but it was overwhelming.”
Ehrhardt has been a faculty member in the PA program since its inception in 1997. She became academic coordinator in 2003 and has served as assistant program director since 2013. She also serves on the DeSales Free Clinic Board of Advisors, the nccPA Health Foundation Board, and she’s a trustee of St. Luke’s Quakertown Hospital.
“I was thrilled to honor Kathy for her devoted service evidenced by the time and energy she offers to DeSales, the PA profession, and the surrounding community of which the University is a part,” says Brother Dan. “I wish I could have seen Kathy’s face when her name was announced.”
Adds Ehrhardt: “I think that’s why we’re here on this earth—to help other people and to be there and support others. I’m here to help the students and help our program succeed.”
