Duquesne Names Bridget Calhoun as Associate Dean in Health Sciences School

Dr. Bridget Calhoun was named the associate dean for academic affairs and research for the John G. Rangos, Sr. School of Health Sciences, effective July 1.

Currently chair of the Department of Physician Assistant (PA) Studies, Calhoun’s new role focuses on advancing the school’s new strategic plan and agenda for research and scholarship. As associate dean, she will help identify and launch new program offerings and work to enhance the School of Health Sciences’ interdisciplinary and collaborative research efforts and scholarly endeavors. Calhoun will continue to serve as department chair.

“We are very pleased to have Bridget take on this new role,” Rangos Dean Dr. Fevzi Akinci said. “As demand grows for health care professionals, we must continue to explore educational and research opportunities that attract students and further strengthen our capabilities to deliver a world-class educational experience. Bridget’s expertise as an educator and established scholar makes her the perfect choice to lead that charge.”

A national leader in PA education, Calhoun has worked as an accreditation consultant for other PA programs throughout the country and as an expert witness on the practice of physician assistants in medical malpractice cases. Her current research focuses on infectious diseases, including AIDS. Calhoun also serves a reviewer for the Journal of Physician Assistant Education and Health Promotion Practice.

Calhoun first became chair of Duquesne’s PA Studies department in 2002. She earned a doctoral degree in infectious diseases and microbiology at the University of Pittsburgh Graduate School of Public Health and master’s and bachelor’s degrees from Saint Francis University.