Driven by a passion for education, representation in medicine and service, Nicole B. Burwell, Ph.D., PA-C, DFAAPA, serves as Professor and founding Program Director for the Master of Science in PA Studies Program at North Carolina A&T State University.
Burwell, who attended Hampton University, a historically Black College and University (HBCU), earned her bachelor’s degree in biology before pursuing a Ph.D. in nutritional science at Howard University, another prominent HBCU in Washington, D.C.
These experiences cemented her dedication to HBCU institutions, driving her ambition to maintain strong connections throughout her career.
“Growing up, I witnessed firsthand the value of mentorship and the importance of paying it forward,” Burwell said. “Although I wasn’t a first-generation college student, I was the first in my family to pursue a career in medicine—and I had no roadmap to follow. But I had a large extended family, each member helping pave the way for others.”
Throughout her journey, mentors invested in her professional growth. Now, she feels it is her turn to offer similar support to students, fostering a legacy of empowerment and excellence.
“Leading the development of this PA program at the nation’s largest HBCU is both a professional honor and a personal calling,” she said. “My goal is to create a culture where students not only master clinical skills but also grow into confident leaders and advocates for health equity. Ultimately, we want our graduates to return to their communities and become catalysts for change.”
Burwell’s passion for education extends beyond her current position and has served as a professor at George Washington University, Howard University and Stanford University. Her own pursuit of advanced degrees informs her teaching philosophy and mentorship approach.
“Our work as educators has an exponential effect,” Burwell said. “Each lesson can impact countless patients through the work of our students. My Ph.D. taught me the value of lifelong learning, critical thinking and evidence-based practice—skills essential for PAs addressing the evolving health care landscape.”
She aims for her graduates to excel clinically as PAs and continue developing skills across various specialties. Burwell seeks to prepare leaders who can address clinical needs and manage evolving health care systems.
Burwell, who founded Stanford’s MSPA Diversity Affinity Group, has contributed to committees within the Physician Assistant Education Association (PAEA), highlighting her dedication to addressing health care disparities.
“One of the most pressing challenges is the persistent lack of equity within the PA workforce,” Burwell said. “This disconnect contributes to mistrust, cultural misunderstandings and unfavorable health outcomes for marginalized communities.”
To address these challenges, Burwell co-authored research leading to the Retention, Outreach, Alignment, and Diversity (ROAD) Framework. This model provides actionable strategies to create more inclusive educational environments, aiming to produce a health care workforce that better represents diverse populations.
“Equity at North Carolina A&T isn’t a side initiative — it’s essential to our mission,” Burwell said.
Based on her clinical experiences, Burwell teaches patient-centered care and cultural humility. She expects PAs to help tackle workforce shortages, especially in primary care and underserved communities. The program aims to foster a lasting commitment in students to reducing health disparities and improving care for marginalized populations.
“Each patient interaction is a profound privilege and responsibility,” Burwell said. “Students must understand the impact they can have on their patients’ lives.”
Nicole Burnwell, Ph.D., PA-C, DFAAPA
Nicole B. Burwell, Ph.D., PA-C, DFAAPA, is a Board Certified PA serving as Professor and founding Program Director for the Master of Science in PA Studies Program at North Carolina A&T State University.