OHSU

Spotlight

Karen Whitaker Knapp Service Award

Ted and Karen with plaque_web

This award is given out each year in recognition of physician assistants whose clinical careers reflect a commitment to the rural and medically underserved communities of Oregon.

As Director of the Oregon Office of Rural Health, Ms. Knapp was instrumental in establishing the OHSU Physician Assistant Program and in supporting Physician Assistant practice in the state.  For 25 years she has dedicated her professional life to the advocacy of quality healthcare for all Oregonians.  Her contributions have been numerous and will have a lasting impact on health care delivery in rural Oregon. This award was established in her honor upon her retirement.

 

Ted Karen and Kevin_web
Bob Davis, PA-C from Vale, OR.
Top photo:  Kevin Heidrick, PA-C, from Woodburn, OR, and the first recipient of the Karen Whitaker Knapp Award in 2006, is shown receiving his award plaque from Ted Ruback and Karen Whitaker Knapp.
Bottom photo:  The second recipient of the Karen Whitaker Knapp Award in 2007 was Bob Davis, PA-C from Vale, OR.  Mr. Davis was unable to accept his award in person and is shown here receiving his 2006 Outstanding Clinical Teaching Site Award along with his staff.  Heidi Layer, former OHSU PA Program Regional Coordinator, is shown presenting the award.