-
- Paxton Barnes received TAPA’s Student of the Year Award.
-
- Bailey Jessee, a 2021 graduate of Milligan’s PA program, received the Preceptor of the Year Award from TAPA.
-
- Paxton Barnes (far left) attended this year’s awards ceremony for the Tennessee Academy of Physician Assistants (TAPA).
MILLIGAN, Tenn. (Nov. 3, 2025) – A current student and an alum of Milligan University’s Master of Science in Physician Assistant Studies (MSPAS) program have received statewide awards from the Tennessee Academy of Physician Assistants (TAPA).
Paxton Barnes received TAPA’s Student of the Year Award while Bailey Jessee, a 2021 graduate of Milligan’s PA program, received the Preceptor of the Year Award from TAPA. Both Barnes and Jessee were recognized at the 2025 TAPA Fall Conference earlier this month.
In his role as a preceptor, Jessee supervises, teaches and evaluates PA students in a clinical setting. Jessee also serves on the PA Program Advisory Committee and is an adjunct instructor for Milligan’s PA program.
“Bailey’s dedication to precepting and mentoring future PAs is highlighted by this award,” said Dr. Andy Hull, area chair, director and associate professor of physician assistant studies at Milligan. “He exemplifies clinical excellence while investing in the next generation of PAs, encouraging growth and confidence in our students by serving as an outstanding preceptor for our program.”
Barnes, who is slated to graduate in the spring, serves as the AAPA State Chapter Student Representative for Milligan’s PA program. She has also served as a PA program ambassador where she led tours of the program and answered questions from student applicants. She also recently served on a short-term medical mission trip to Kenya with Milligan.
“Paxton truly embodies what it means to be a Milligan PA student through her compassion, professionalism and commitment to serving others,” Hull said. “This award honors her academic excellence, servant leadership and dedication to providing excellent patient care. I look forward to seeing what Paxton will accomplish as a PA who is a graduate of this program.
“Milligan’s PA program prepares students to make a positive impact in our community and beyond, and these awards reflect the strong work we are doing to train exceptional PAs who provide great care.”
To learn more about Milligan’s PA program, visit milligan.edu/PA.