Meet the Faculty & Staff of the Harrogate PA Program

Elizabeth Barner grew up in Knox County, KY, in Flat Lick, just 25 miles from LMU’s campus. She graduated from Knox Central High School and attended Eastern Kentucky University, then went on to PA school at the University of the Cumberlands, where she became the first person in her family to earn a graduate degree and work in medicine. After graduating from PA school in 2014, she began working clinically as a PA in the greater Cincinnati area. She practiced for five years before being offered a position with a developing PA program with the University of the Cumberlands at their NKY campus in Florence. In the five years she was with the University of the Cumberlands NKY Campus PA Program, she served as Director of Didactic Education for three years and the Director of Clinical Education/Associate Program Director for two years. She developed and taught Human Anatomy, Clinical Medicine I/II/III, and Integration Seminar (a case-based course) I/II/III. She is completing her Ph.D. in Leadership with a Health Professions focus and expects to defend successfully in 2024. Her dissertation topic is Empathetic Leadership in Medical Education Programs.

Barnes and her soon-to-be 15-year-old daughter, Mady, relocated back home to Flat Lick, KY, in December 2023, and Mady now attends Knox Central High School. They live in Barnes’s childhood home with their 5-year-old golden retriever, Cargo, and are thrilled to return home to the mountains permanently.

Education:
University of the Cumberlands
Ph.D. Leadership, Health Science, in progress

University of the Cumberlands, 2014
Master of Science in Physician Assistant Studies

Eastern Kentucky University, 2012
Bachelor of Arts, Magna Cum Laude

Work Experience:
Lincoln Memorial University, School of Medical Sciences, Harrogate, Tennessee
2024 -  Present
Assistant Dean and Program Director 

University of the Cumberlands, Northern Kentucky Campus
Associate Program Director & Director of Clinical Education (2022-2024)
Director of Didactic Education (2019-2022)

Dr. Melvin S. Gale & Associates
2019-2020
Physician Assistant

Premier Pain Treatment Institute
2016-2019
Physician Assistant

Federal Bureau of Prisons, United States Penitentiary (USP)
2015-2016
Physician Assistant

Comprehensive Pain Specialist
2015
Physician Assistant

Joshua Shepherd began his career in healthcare with a focus on family medicine at LMU's University Medical Clinic in New Tazewell, TN. During this time, he provided essential medical care to the University community and residents of surrounding counties in the Tri-State area.

After five years in clinical practice, Shepherd transitioned to PA education, joining Lincoln Memorial University (LMU). He served as the course director for physiology and pathophysiology in the Physician Assistant Program, influencing the academic journey of aspiring healthcare professionals.

Recently, Shepherd was promoted to Full Professor and took on a new position as the Associate Program Director for the LMU PA Program in Harrogate, guiding the program's strategic direction and educational advancement. 

Shepherd holds a Doctoral Degree in Medical Science from LMU, specializing in Medical Education. His goal is to advance medical education and nurture the professional development of future healthcare leaders.

Education:
Lincoln Memorial University, 2009
Bachelor of Science in Medical Laboratory Science (MLS)

Lincoln Memorial University, 2011
Master of Medical Science (MMS) in Physician Assistant Studies

Lincoln Memorial University, 2021
Doctor of Medical Science (DMS) with a focus in Medical Education

Karen Adair joined Lincoln Memorial University, School of Medical Sciences in 2022 as an Assistant Professor for the Physician Assistant program in Harrogate, Tennessee. Adair has been a Physician Assistant for almost a decade. Before transitioning to academia, she worked as a clinical PA in neurology.

Adair’s goal as an educator is to provide the students with the knowledge, skill, and resourcefulness they need to care for their patients competently. She will integrate the fantastic resources and facilities at LMU to customize the students’ learning process to achieve her goal. She will work with each student through an open-door policy to find the best toolbox for their individual needs.

Education:
Our Lady of the Lake College, 2014
Master of Medical Science (MMS) in Physician Assistant Studies

Arkansas State University, 2008
Bachelor of Science in Exercise Science

Work Experience:
Lincoln Memorial University, School of Medical Sciences, Harrogate, Tennessee
2022 -  Present
Assistant Professor of Physician Assistant Studies

Our Lady of the Lake Physician Group; Baton Rouge, Lousiana
2019-2022
Neurocritical Care Physician Assistant

The NeuroMedical Center, Baton Rouge, Lousiana
2017-2018
Neurology Clinical Physician Assistant

The NeuroMedical Center, Baton Rouge, Lousiana
2014-2017
Interventional Pain Management Clinical Physician Assistant

Lauren Anderson joined Lincoln Memorial University, School of Medical Sciences, in April 2019 as Assistant Professor for the Physician Assistant program in Harrogate, Tennessee. Dr. Anderson is a member of the Physician Assistant Education Association (PAEA), the American Academy of Physician Associates (AAPA), and the Tennessee Academy of Physician Assistants (TAPA).

Anderson's philosophy regarding the education of future Physician Assistants involves several different aspects. She feels we are all lifelong learners and try to keep up to date with the latest medical knowledge. Knowledge and empathy are essential in this profession. Being empathetic with patients will create trust and a bond between provider and patient. Teamwork and leadership are also core values. Physician Assistants understand the importance of a team approach while demonstrating leadership within their roles. All of these aspects, along with the adaptability to change directions, sometimes at a moment's notice, are what she feels make a well-rounded provider. She enjoys being part of this process with each new class of students.

Education:
Lincoln Memorial University, School of Medical Sciences, December 2020
Doctor of Medical Science (DMS) in Primary Care Medicine

Lincoln Memorial University, Debusk College of Osteopathic Medicine, 2011
Masters of Medical Science (MMS) in Physician Assistant Studies

University of Kentucky, 2007
Masters of Healthcare Administration

Lincoln Memorial University, School of Business, 2005
Bachelor of Business Administration in  Management

Work Experience:
Lincoln Memorial University, School of Medical Science, Harrogate, Tennessee
April 2019 - Present,
Assistant Professor of Physician Assistant Studies

Servolution Health Services, Tennessee
2017 - 2019
Clinical Physician Assistant (PA)

Urology of Indiana
2013 – 2016
Clinical Physician Assistant (PA)

Barker Sleep Institute
2011-2012
Clinical Physician Assistant (PA)

Jessica Gibson joined the Lincoln Memorial University (LMU) School of Medical Sciences (SMS) in 2023 as an Assistant Professor for the Physician Assistant (PA) program in Harrogate, Tennessee. Gibson is a two-time LMU graduate, completing her Bachelor of Medical Laboratory Science in 2019 and the LMU PA program with her Master of Medical Science in 2021. Since graduating, she’s worked in East Tennessee emergency medicine and urgent care.

Gibson is a native of the Cumberland Gap area, and she looks forward to furthering the PA profession by educating future physician assistants. She hopes to encourage them to become compassionate, empathetic providers.

Education:
Lincoln Memorial University, School of Medical Sciences, 2021
Master of Medical Science in Physician Assistant Studies

Lincoln Memorial University, 2019
Bachelor of Science in Medical Laboratory Science

Work Experience:
Lincoln Memorial University, School of Medical Sciences, Harrogate, Tennessee
2023 - Present
Assistant Professor of Physician Assistant Studies

Jacksboro Urgent Care
2023 - Present
Urgent Care Physician Assistant

 Fast Pace Health
2022-2023
Urgent Care Physician Assistant

 American Physician Partners
2021-2022
Emergency Medicine Physician Assistant

Madison Gobbell has almost a decade of clinical experience as a Physician Assistant. She graduated from the LMU Harrogate PA program in 2016 and relocated to North Carolina to begin her Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility practice. As her passion for oncology grew, Gobbell transitioned to Radiation Oncology, where she found fulfillment in navigating the complexities of cancer care and supporting patients through their most challenging treatments. One of the most rewarding aspects of her work was providing survivorship care and education, which inspired her to focus on medical education.

In 2020, Gobbell earned her Doctor of Medical Science (DMS) degree from LMU with a concentration in medical education. Joining the LMU PA Harrogate faculty is a significant career milestone for her, and she is eager to contribute to the growth of future healthcare providers. Outside of her professional life, Madison enjoys playing pickleball.

Karie Hall joined Lincoln Memorial University, School of Medical Sciences in 2023 as an Assistant Professor for the Physician Assistant program in Harrogate, Tennessee. Hall worked in Hospital Medicine for nine years before transitioning into education in 2023. Her goal as an educator is to educate her students to become competent medical providers who can provide excellent care to their patients. Hall hopes to impart her medical knowledge and expertise to her students. She considers teaching the next generation of Physician Assistants, the future of medicine, a great honor.
 

Education:
Lincoln Memorial University, Debusk College of Osteopathic Medicine, 2014
Master of Medical Science (MMS) in Physician Assistant Studies

East Tennessee State University, 2012
Bachelor of Science in Biochemistry with a minor in Public Health

 
Work Experience:
Lincoln Memorial University, School of Medical Sciences, Harrogate, Tennessee
2023 -  Present
Assistant Professor of Physician Assistant Studies

TeamHealth, Hospital Medicine, Morristown, Tennessee
2015-2023
Hospital Medicine Physician Assistant

Stacy Hall joined Lincoln Memorial University (LMU) School of Medical Sciences in 2024 as an Assistant Professor for the Physician Assistant (PA) program in Harrogate, Tennessee. Hall graduated from LMU’s Medical Technology Program in 2003. She graduated from the PA program in Harrogate in 2021. Before coming on board as faculty, Hall practiced in Family Medicine.

Hall is a native of Bell County, Kentucky. She resides in Middlesboro, KY, with her husband of 20 years, Doug, and their two sons, Luke and Logan.

Dana Johnson joined Lincoln Memorial University School of Medical Sciences in April 2020 as an Assistant Professor of Pharmacology for the Physician Assistant program in Knoxville, Tennessee. While with the Knoxville PA program, she assisted with developing the Pharmacology curriculum for the first cohort of Physician Assistant students. She remained with the Knoxville PA program until May 2022, when she transferred to the LMU Harrogate Physician Assistant program. Johnson entered the medical field as a pharmacy technician in 1994. Johnson has been a licensed and practicing pharmacist for 19 years.

Education: 
Samford University, McWhorter School of Pharmacy, 2004
Doctor of Pharmacy

Work Experience:
Lincoln Memorial University, School of Medical Sciences, Harrogate, Tennessee
May 2023- Present
Assistant Professor of Pharmacology

Lincoln Memorial University, Doctor of Medical Sciences
Assistant Professor of Pharmacology
April 2022- Present

Lincoln Memorial University, School of Medical Sciences, Knoxville, Tennessee
April 2020- May 2023
Assistant Professor of Pharmacology

Miller has an impressive 27 years of experience as a Physician Assistant. He brings a wealth of knowledge in cardiology, internal medicine, and family medicine.

He earned his PA degree in 1997 from the University of Kentucky and went on to complete his MS in physiology and microbiology in 1999. Beyond his professional expertise, William is deeply involved in his community, serving as a board member for the Kentucky Heritage Council, Harlan Independent School, and Camp Blanton Trust.

Outside of work, William enjoys spending time with his family. He and his wife, Stacey, are proud parents of two sons, Mason and Story.

PRESENTATION:​

“Strategies for Successfully Improving Smoking Cessation and Referral to Lung Cancer Screening in High Risk Rural Populations”, Kentucky Rural Health Association Conference on November 14, 2019, Bowling Green, Kentucky​

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PUBLICATION:
“Implementation of Lung Cancer Screening in a Southeastern Kentucky Community Health Center: A Quality Improvement Initiative”, digital poster presented at American College of Medical Quality in Bethesda, MD on April 12, 2019

CERTIFICATIONS:
Certified in treatment of Hepatitis C via Kentucky Hepatitis Academic Mentorship, 2019

National Registry of Certified Medical Examiners on the Federal Motor Safety Administration, #9443160899, Date: 10/03/2025

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Ashley Norvell joins Lincoln Memorial University, School of Medical Science in 2024 as an Assistant Professor for the Physician Assistant program in Harrogate, Tennessee. Norvell graduated from the University of Kentucky Physician Assistant program in 1995, completed her Masters at the University of Nebraska in 2011, and earned her Doctor of Medical Science (DMS) with a focus in Emergency Medicine in December 2023 at Lincoln Memorial University LMU) School of Medical Science (SMS). Norvell’s clinical practice background is in Cardiology.

Some fun facts about Ashley are that she loves sports photography, especially football and dance, and she plays the saxophone.

Adrian Qualls joined Lincoln Memorial University, School of Medical Sciences in 2022 as an Assistant Professor for the Physician Assistant program in Harrogate, Tennessee. Qualls worked in gastroenterology for eight years before transitioning to education in 2022. Her goal as an educator is to educate students in the field of medical science and on the importance of effective communication with patients. Training formidable medical providers who can provide excellent care to patients in their communities and beyond is the foundation of Qualls' teaching philosophy.

Education:
Lincoln Memorial Universite, Debusk College of Osteopathic Medicine, 2014
Master of Medical Science (MMS) in Physician Assistant Studies

East Tennessee State University, 2007 
Bachelor of Science in Allied Health with a concentration in Cardiopulmonary Science

Work Experience:
Lincoln Memorial University, School of Medical Sciences, Harrogate, Tennessee
2022 -  Present
Assistant Professor of Physician Assistant Studies

Sullivan Digestive Center, Kingsport, Tennessee
2018-2022
Gastroenterology

Appalachian Gastroenterology, Boone, North Carolina
Gastroenterology
2015-2017

Johnson City Medical Center, Johnson City, Tennessee
Respiratory Therapist
2007-2012

Nicole Shields joined Lincoln Memorial University, School of Medical Science as the Medical Director for the Physician Assistant program in Harrogate, Tennessee. Dr. Shields graduated from the University of Florida College of Medicine and completed Duke's Southern Regional AHEC Family Medicine Residency with special training in Clinical Leadership.

Dr. Shields is passionate about primary care medicine and teaching. She prides herself on delivering quality, evidence-based primary care to her underserved rural Appalachia patients while teaching students. She has been dedicated to the medical education of graduates at Lincoln Memorial University for many years and remains active in education, primary care medicine, and the community. While a Florida native, Dr. Shields has called Tennessee home for over ten years.

Joan Ward joined the Lincoln Memorial University (LMU) School of Medical Science (SMS) Tampa Physician Assistant (PA) program in 2022 as an Associate Professor. In 2023, Ward transitioned to the role of Director of Assessment for the School of Medical Sciences. She works closely with the Harrogate Physician Assistant program. Ward received her undergraduate degree from Cabrini College, a certificate program in Physician Assistant Studies at Philadelphia College of Textiles and Sciences, and a Master's in Physician Assistant Studies at Philadelphia University (now Jefferson University). She has been in clinical practice for 22 years in various fields, including orthopedics, emergency medicine, internal medicine, primary Care, and gastroenterology.

In addition to her passion for practicing medicine, Ward loves teaching. She has been a part of Physician Assistant education for 16 years, holding various positions. She facilitated workshops for clinical coordinators, advanced clinical coordinators, and new program director retreats. Professor Ward has been a member of the Physician Assistant Education Association (PAEA) Emergency Medicine/Surgery End of Rotation Exam Writing Committee for ten years.

In her free time, Professor Ward has been a firefighter and emergency medical technician at the local fire company since the age of 17, where she worked through the ranks of various positions and continues to volunteer to give back to the community. She has participated in multiple presentations at the National Physician Assistant Education Association (PAEA) Education Forum. Professor Ward is also fluent in sign language.

Erica West joins Lincoln Memorial University, School of Medical Sciences as Principal Faculty for the Physician Assistant program in Harrogate, Tennessee. She worked in Surgical Critical Care, Orthopedics, and Ophthalmology at the VA in Augusta, GA for 7 years before joining the faculty.

Professor West enjoys playing tennis, reading, and watching movies.