Salt Lake City, UT — The Division of Physician Assistant Education and Sciences (DPAES) at the Spencer Fox Eccles School of Medicine, University of Utah, is pleased to announce that Rebecca M. Kohler, PA-C, MPAS, a graduate of the Utah Physician Assistant Program (UPAP), has been appointed as the inaugural Vice Chair of Clinical Affairs, effective July 1, 2025.
Ms. Kohler currently serves as Director of Advanced Practice in the Department of Surgery and Lead APC for the Comprehensive Weight Management Program. Her new appointment reflects a strategic collaboration with the Department of Surgery and aligns seamlessly with her ongoing leadership responsibilities.
In this newly established role, Ms. Kohler will partner closely with leadership across the School of Medicine and University of Utah Health to further define and implement the Division’s clinical vision and to promote the physician assistant workforce. Rebecca is charged with providing vision and leadership for clinical initiatives, program development, and policy implementation, developing innovative models for PA deployment and utilization and advancing clinical education and leadership development for physician assistants.
“Rebecca’s appointment marks a significant step forward for our Division,” said Dr. Leigh Elrod, Chair of the Division of Physician Assistant Education and Sciences. “As a UPAP alumna and a respected leader in clinical practice, she brings a unique blend of insight, experience, and dedication to this role. I’m thrilled to welcome her to the executive team and look forward to the impact she will make.”
Ms. Kohler is widely recognized for her excellence in clinical care, education, and administration. Her accolades include the University of Utah Surgical APC Excellence Award in Administration and multiple national recognitions for patient satisfaction. She is also an active educator, researcher, and advocate for advanced practice providers. Her term as Vice Chair of Clinical Affairs will focus on strengthening clinical partnerships, enhancing PA visibility and impact, and supporting the Division’s mission to lead in education, service, and innovation.