A.T. Still University's College for Healthy Communities (ATSU-CHC) celebrated 84 graduates from the Central Coast Physician Assistant program's class of 2026 and presented an honorary Doctor of Humane Letters degree to Assemblymember Dawn Addis, of California's 30th Assembly District, during its recent commencement ceremony.
The event, held Sept. 18 at Performing Arts Center San Luis Obispo on the campus of California Polytechnic State University, marked ATSU-CHC's fourth graduating class. Graduates earned Master of Science in Physician Assistant Studies degrees, furthering ATSU-CHC's mission of educating healthcare professionals who help close workforce gaps and expand access to care across California's Central Coast and beyond.
"We're proud of all that you have accomplished, and excited to see the difference you're going to make as you carry forward A.T. Still University's mission of advancing whole person healthcare and serving underserved communities," said O.T. Wendel, PhD, president, ATSU Arizona & California campuses.
"Your tireless pursuit of knowledge, combined with your unwavering passion for serving the underserved, has set you apart as culturally proficient healthcare providers," said Eric Sauers, PhD, '97, dean, ATSU-CHC. "You have embraced the ideals of compassion, empathy, and social justice, recognizing that healthcare is not a privilege, but a fundamental human right."
Addis, who delivered the commencement address, was elected to the California State Assembly in 2022 and represents Central Coast communities in San Luis Obispo, Monterey, and Santa Cruz counties.
"You're here to help each and every person that you serve, not just with the healthcare that they need to survive, but with the healthcare that they need to thrive," Addis told graduates. "You're about to change our world for the better. Not just one person at a time, but one act of service at a time. And I will tell you, class of 2026, that the Central Coast, San Luis Obispo in particular, needs you more than ever."
Dr. Sauers was joined by ATSU Chancellor Craig M. Phelps, DO, '84, in presenting the honorary doctorate to Addis. ATSU recognized Addis for her leadership and public service, including her work to advance healthcare access, education, and the well-being of communities throughout the Central Coast.
In his closing remarks, Dr. Phelps invoked the words of University founder A.T. Still, DO, to underscore graduates' purpose.
"As Dr. Still emphasized in his works, finding disease is relatively easy; helping our patients find health, that is our true calling," Dr. Phelps said. "No one can do it better than you. Our future is in your hands."
About A.T. Still University of Health Sciences
Established in 1892 by A.T. Still, DO, the founder of osteopathic medicine, A.T. Still University of Health Sciences (ATSU) began as the nation's first college of osteopathic medicine and has evolved into a leading university of health sciences comprised of a growing community with a rich history in education and osteopathic healthcare. Today, ATSU offers certificates and master's degrees across health disciplines; and doctorates in athletic training, audiology, health administration, education, health sciences, medical science, nursing, occupational therapy, physical therapy, dental medicine, and osteopathic medicine.
College for Healthy Communities
A.T. Still University's College for Healthy Communities (ATSU-CHC), located in San Luis Obispo, California, began educating students through its Central Coast Physician Assistant (CCPA) program in fall 2021 and officially became ATSU's third campus in January 2022. ATSU-CHC's CCPA program prepares graduates to become community-oriented physician assistants who provide whole person primary care to underserved communities.
Contact: Jason Hunsicker, A.T. Still University, Digital Content & Public Relations Manager, jasonhunsicker@atsu.edu, 660.626.2539