Dr. Tracey Thurnes is an Associate Professor within Elon University’s Department of Physician Assistant Studies. Additionally, she is Elon’s School of Health Sciences Director of the Accelerated Pathways Program, a three-and-a-half-year pathway for Elon undergraduate students to the Master of Science in Physician Assistant Studies (PA) and Doctor of Physical Therapy (PT) programs. Her passion for actively mentoring, advising, and educating students to gain critical thinking skills and professional readiness needed for successful careers in healthcare is fostered in her role as Director of the Accelerated Pathways Program. Tracey received her Doctor of Education in Organizational Leadership in 2019 from Gardner- Webb University in Boiling Springs, NC where she also received a Bachelor of Science degree. She holds a Master of Physician Assistant Studies from James Madison University in Harrisonburg, VA and practiced clinically as a physician assistant in Cardiology before joining Elon in 2012.