Lincoln Memorial University (LMU) has recognized seven outstanding graduates from the School of Medical Sciences (SMS) as part of its 40 Under Forty program, which celebrates young alumni who demonstrate strong leadership, career success and meaningful contributions to their communities.
The LMU 40 Under Forty program recognizes alumni under the age of 40 who are making an impact in their professions and communities. Honorees are selected based on professional achievement, leadership ability, service and the positive influence they bring to their organizations and industries. The recognition also reflects each recipient’s continued connection to LMU and their reputation as leaders in their field.
The program highlights the real-world impact of an LMU education while strengthening alumni engagement and connection across the university community. By sharing their success, LMU aims to inspire current students and encourage young alumni to stay involved and invested in the University’s future.
“LMU’s 40 Under Forty program is a powerful reminder of what our alumni go on to do after they leave our campus,” said Dr. Frank Woodward, Vice President for University Advancement. “These individuals are building meaningful careers, leading with integrity, and making a real difference in the lives of others. What makes this recognition especially meaningful is the connection they continue to have with LMU and the role they play in inspiring the next generation of students.”
Honorees from LMU-SMS represent a range of industries and leadership roles, demonstrating the breadth and strength of LMU’s academic programs. Their work reflects a commitment to excellence, service and continued growth after graduation.
The following LMU-SMS alumni have been named to LMU’s 40 Under Forty class of 2026. Their accomplishments highlight the lasting impact of an LMU education, as each continues to lead, innovate and give back in ways that strengthen their professions, communities and the university they call home. Their continued success and connection to LMU reflect a strong and engaged alumni community that supports future generations of students.
Brittney Atkins, B.S. ‘11
Brittney Atkins is an experienced medical laboratory professional who serves as laboratory manager for Morristown-Hamblen Healthcare System and Morristown-Hamblen West, part of Covenant Health. With more than 14 years of experience in the medical laboratory science field, she is recognized for her servant leadership approach, commitment to patient-centered care, and dedication to building engaged, high-performing teams. Since joining the organization in 2017, Atkins has held several key leadership roles, including technical specialist in hematology, coagulation, urinalysis, and point-of-care testing, as well as chief medical technologist. Within her first year as laboratory manager, she successfully led the transition from CAP to The Joint Commission accreditation and has since enhanced the outpatient laboratory experience while improving employee engagement through intentional, people-focused leadership. Atkins is certified by the American Society for Clinical Pathology, holds a State of Tennessee General Supervisor license, and is a graduate of Covenant Health’s Emerging Leaders Class of 2023.
Dr. Haley Douglas, MMS ’20, DMS ‘24
Dr. Haley Douglas, a two-time graduate of LMU-SMS, is a compassionate healthcare professional who serves as a radiation oncology physician assistant with Blount Memorial Hospital–Prisma Health. Before pursuing a career in medicine, she earned a Bachelor of Science in Special Education from the University of Tennessee, Knoxville, building a strong foundation in advocacy, communication, and patient-centered care. Douglas is committed to serving vulnerable and underserved populations and has participated in medical mission work in multiple countries, providing essential healthcare services to those in need. She is an active member of the American Academy of Physician Assistants and is a dedicated advocate for human trafficking survivors and their children, offering compassion, support, and hope to individuals facing extraordinary challenges. Through her work in healthcare and service, Douglas remains devoted to improving lives and expanding access to quality care.
Kelsey Edwards Gray, B.S. ’13, MMS ‘18
Kelsey Edwards Gray, a graduate of the LMU-College of Mathematic, Sciences, and Health Professions and LMU-SMS, is a physician assistant licensed in both Virginia and New York with more than seven years of experience in women’s health. She serves as a physician assistant in outpatient and inpatient obstetrics and gynecology with HCA Healthcare Commonwealth OB/GYN Specialists, where she is committed to delivering high-quality, patient-centered care and empowering women to be informed advocates for their own health. Gray played a vital role as a frontline provider during the COVID-19 pandemic in New York City and continues to serve her community through her involvement with her local hospital. She holds advanced certifications in Advanced Cardiac Life Support and Electronic Fetal Monitoring and remains active in the profession through membership in the American Academy of Physician Assistants and the Association of Physician Assistants in Obstetrics and Gynecology. Dedicated to mentorship and continuous improvement in healthcare delivery, she helps prepare physician assistant and nurse practitioner students to provide evidence-based patient care and works with practice leadership to enhance clinic workflow and provider efficiency. As a committed alumna, Gray returned to Lincoln Memorial University as a speaker for freshman convocation and remains engaged through the alumni association.
Jamison Hartley, MMS ‘17
Jamison Hartley is a healthcare educator and clinician who serves as director of clinical education and adjunct faculty for South College while also contributing to the Georgia AHEC Scholars Program. A highly credentialed healthcare professional with NCCPA board certification and multiple licenses and certifications, Hartley is dedicated to preparing the next generation of physician assistants through high-quality clinical education and mentorship. In his role, he collaborates with clinical preceptors and faculty to develop, implement, and maintain diverse clinical rotations that strengthen students’ clinical reasoning, diagnostic decision-making, and interprofessional collaboration skills. He is an active member of the American Academy of Physician Associates and the Georgia Association of Physician Assistants and serves as chair of the Clinical Assessment Committee, chair of the Academic Standards and Student Progress Committee, and student society chair. Hartley’s commitment to student success and program excellence earned him the 2025 South College Atlanta PA Program Outstanding Contribution Award, and he was selected as a proposal reviewer for the 2026 Physician Assistant Education Association Education Forum. Beyond his professional responsibilities, he remains committed to service through volunteer work with organizations including the Spring and Winter Special Olympics.
Dr. Amber Jacobs, B.S. ’08, D.O. ‘12
Dr. Amber Jacobs, and graduate of LMU-SMS and LMU-Debusk College of Osteopathic Medicine, is a board-certified general surgeon with nine years of experience providing high-quality surgical care and advancing patient outcomes. She serves as chief of staff at Middlesboro ARH Hospital, where she provides clinical leadership and oversight to support excellence in patient care across the organization. In addition to her hospital leadership role, Jacobs serves as adjunct clinical faculty for Lincoln Memorial University-DeBusk College of Osteopathic Medicine and the University of the Cumberlands, mentoring and educating future healthcare professionals through general surgery training. She remains actively engaged in the advancement of her field through membership in the American College of Surgeons and the American College of Osteopathic Surgeons. Her leadership, surgical expertise, and commitment to medical education continue to make a meaningful impact on healthcare delivery throughout the region.
Dr. Courtney Riggs, MMS ’24, DMS ‘25
Dr. Courtney Riggs, a two-time graduate of LMU-SMS, is a physician assistant at Life Psychiatry and serves as assistant medical director, providing compassionate, evidence-based psychiatric care to patients with a wide range of mental health needs. With advanced clinical training in psychiatry, she is experienced in conducting comprehensive psychiatric evaluations, developing individualized treatment plans, delivering cognitive behavioral therapy, and managing complex medication regimens. Riggs is a certified physician assistant who holds an Alabama State Medical License, a Doctor of Medical Science degree, and a Certificate of Added Qualifications in Psychiatry. In recognition of her leadership and commitment to the profession, she received the LMU Doctor of Medical Science Advocate Award in May 2025. Beyond her clinical practice, Riggs is dedicated to community service through the Junior League of Mobile and medical mission work, while also mentoring physician assistant students and new clinicians to strengthen clinical reasoning, diagnostic confidence, and ethical practice.
Jessica Roden, MMS ‘16
Jessica Roden is a physician assistant, educator, and healthcare entrepreneur who serves as co-founder and managing director of Blox Medical, LLC, a mobile clinical decision-support platform designed to help healthcare students and new graduate providers build confidence and navigate high-pressure clinical environments. With experience in emergency medicine, urgent care, aesthetics, and clinical education, Roden combines frontline healthcare expertise with a passion for teaching and mentorship. She serves as Chattanooga regional director for the Tennessee Academy of Physician Assistants and remains actively involved in clinical education and mentorship of physician assistant students. Roden is also a member of the American Academy of Physician Associates and previously served as community development chair and board member for Chattanooga Room in the Inn, supporting initiatives that strengthen her local community. Through her clinical, educational, and entrepreneurial work, she is dedicated to empowering the next generation of healthcare professionals.
LMU is proud to recognize these alumni whose achievements continue to strengthen their communities and elevate the University’s legacy. Their ongoing connection to LMU reflects a shared commitment to opportunity, service and student success. The University looks forward to celebrating their continued impact and engaging them in shaping the future of LMU.
To learn more about the LMU 40 Under Forty program and view the full list of honorees, visit https://www.lmunet.edu/giving/40-under-forty-honorees
Lincoln Memorial University is a values-based learning community dedicated to providing educational experiences in liberal arts and professional studies. The main campus is in Harrogate, Tennessee. For more information about the undergraduate and graduate programs available at LMU, contact the Office of Admissions at 423-869-6280 or email at admissions@lmunet.edu.
