Meet the Faculty & Staff of the Knoxville PA Program

Dustin Bates joined Lincoln Memorial University, School of Medical Sciences, in 2019 as the Director of Clinical Phase Operation for the Physician Assistant program in Knoxville, Tennessee. Dr. Bates earned his Doctor of Medical Science degree with Distinction, completing a 45-week curriculum in medical education in 2019 from Lincoln Memorial University DMS program. He practices clinical medicine as Internal Medicine PA. He has worked in PA education for the past six years serving as a member of the clinical education team and as the course director of the Pediatrics course for three years. Dr. Bates is a dedicated clinician and educator.

Education:
Lincoln Memorial University
Doctor of Medical Science (DMS) with Distinction 

Bethel University
Master of Science in Physician Assistant Studies

University of Tennessee-Chattanooga
Bachelor of Science in Biology and Chemistry

Education:
Lincoln Memorial University
Ph.D. in Clinical Anatomy

Lincoln Memorial University
Master of Science in Anatomical Sciences

Tennessee Technological University
Master of Arts in Instructional Leadership

Lee University
Bachelor of Science in Biological Science

State of Tennessee Department of Health
Medical X-Ray Operator – Limited Certification – Bone Densitometry

Work Experience:
Lincoln Memorial University, DeBusk College of Osteopathic Medicine, Harrogate, Tennessee
2016-2019
Graduate Anatomy Teaching Assistant

Lincoln Memorial University, Physician Assistant Program, Harrogate, Tennessee 
2016-2019
Graduate Anatomy Teaching Assistant

Roane State Community College, Tennessee
2014-2015
Laboratory Instructor for anatomy and physiology

Sarah Campbell joined Lincoln Memorial University, School of Medical Sciences, as Principal Didactic faculty for the Physician Assistant program in Knoxville, Tennessee. Campbell graduated from the University of Illinois-Urbana with a Food Science and Human Nutrition degree.  She completed her Dietetic Internship at St. Luke’s Hospital-Mayo Clinic in Jacksonville, Florida.  She worked as a clinical and consultant dietitian in Florida for several years.  Campbell earned a Master’s in Medical Science during PA school at Trevecca Nazarene University in Nashville. She worked in several clinical settings, including pediatric gastroenterology, urgent care, endocrinology, general surgery, and clinical research.  Her particular interest includes obesity and diabetes.  

Campbell has worked in education as a teaching assistant, tutor, and lecturer for over 20 years.  She has worked in PA education for over 15 years.  She thoroughly enjoys interacting with students on a personal level and enjoys learning about their professional successes.  Her favorite thing about the LMU-Knoxville PA program is the focus on hands-on learning with physical exams and procedures. She enjoys working with her colleagues and the diverse backgrounds that glue the team together.  

Campbell and her husband have two daughters.  They enjoy spending time outdoors in many capacities as a family (running, hiking, biking, swimming, canoeing, etc.).  They have one dog who tags along when she is allowed.  The family’s favorite hangouts include The Cove, Mead Quarry, Lakeshore Park, and the Third Creek Greenway.  Campbell also enjoys being a Girl Scout Troop leader.

Education:
Trevecca Nazarene University
Master of Science in Physician Assistant Studies

University of Illinois at Urbana
Bachelor of Science in Food Science and Human Nutrition

Education:
University of the Cumberlands
Master of Science in Physician Assistant Studies 

Milligan University
Bachelor of Science in Biology

Work Experience:
Clinical practice as a PA in orthopedics and physical medicine and rehabilitation.

Daniel Drinnen joined the Lincoln Memorial University School of Medical Sciences in April 2020 as Assistant Professor and Associate Medical Director for the Physician Assistant program in Knoxville, Tennessee. He received his BA in Biology from the University of Tennessee, Knoxville, in 1988, graduating with Highest Honors. Drinnen received his Doctor of Medicine from the University of Tennessee Health Sciences Center, Memphis, in 1992. He completed his General Surgery Residency at the University of Tennessee Medical Center, Knoxville, in 1997. Dr. Drinnen is certified by the American Board of Surgery.

Following residency, Dr. Drinnen joined Middle Tennessee Surgical Associates in Columbia, TN, before returning to East Tennessee in 1998 to join UT Surgical Associates in Morristown. While practicing in Morristown, he served as Clinical Adjunct Faculty for the University of Tennessee Graduate School of Medicine, Clinical Adjunct Faculty for the LMU-DeBusk College of Osteopathic Medicine (LMU-DCOM), and Director of Student Medical Education for the LMU-DCOM clinical core rotation site. He helped establish Surgical Services of East Tennessee, a practice providing wound care in long-term care facilities, in 2017.

Education:
University of Tennessee
Doctor of Medicine (M.D.) 

University of Tennessee
Bachelor of Arts in Biology

Work Experience: 
Clinical practice as a general surgeon in general surgery and wound care.

Ashley Foster joined Lincoln Memorial University, School of Medical Sciences, in 2023 as an Assistant Professor of Pharmacology for the Physician Assistant program in Knoxville, Tennessee. Dr. Foster graduated with a Bachelor of Arts from Maryville College and a Doctor of Pharmacy from Wingate University School of Pharmacy. Throughout her 16 years of experience in community pharmacy, Foster built a culture of excellence within her teams. She especially cherished her relationships with team members and patients and was honored to be nominated for Cityview Magazine’s Best of the Best Pharmacists. Foster is delighted to teach pharmacology and to prepare students to be exceptional health care providers.

A native of Knoxville, Dr. Foster is grateful to live in her hometown with her husband and daughters. She is very fond of iced tea, bakery treats, and a beloved mother-daughter television show.

Kaitlin Greene is a highly skilled and compassionate Certified Physician Assistant (PA-C) with a diverse background in healthcare. She obtained her Bachelor's degree in Kinesiology with a minor in Psychology from the University of Tennessee Knoxville. Driven by her passion for patient care and continuous learning, she furthered her education by earning a Master's degree in Physician Assistant Studies and, subsequently, a Doctor of Medical Science with a focus on Clinical Primary Care, both from Lincoln Memorial University.

With over ten years of experience, Greene has demonstrated proficiency in various healthcare settings, including primary care, geriatric psychiatry, pain management, and aesthetic medicine. Her clinical competency and dedication to patient well-being have earned her a reputation for delivering high-quality, personalized care to her patients.

Dr. Greene's approach to patient care is guided by her Christian faith, instilling values of compassion, empathy, and integrity in her practice. She is expanding her expertise by pursuing certification in Functional Medicine, aiming to integrate holistic approaches into her practice and provide comprehensive care that addresses the root causes of health concerns.

Beyond her professional endeavors, Greene values her role as a wife and mother to four wonderful children and is known for her family-oriented nature. She enjoys reading, watching sports, and listening to music in her leisure time.

Education:
Lincoln Memorial University
Doctor of Medical Science (DMS) in Primary Care Medicine

Lincoln Memorial University
Master of Medical Science in Physician Assistant Studies

University of Tennessee-Knoxville
Bachelor of Science in Education, Kinesiology

Work Experience:
Clinical practice as a PA in primary care and geriatric psychiatry.

Matthew Griffiths joined Lincoln Memorial University, School of Medical Sciences, in March 2024 as an Assistant Professor for the Physician Assistant program in Knoxville, Tennessee. Griffiths comes to Knoxville from Battle Creek, Michigan. Griffiths began his career as a high school science teacher at Knox County schools in Tennessee before enrolling in a physician assistant (PA) program. Since graduating from PA school,  he has worked in family medicine, orthopedics, and urgent care in rural and urban settings. Beyond caring for patients and working with students, Griffiths enjoys spending time with his wife, Mandy, and my three children: Annabelle, Eskel John, and Gideon. As for hobbies, he enjoys pretty much anything outdoors, such as spending time with our three dogs, hiking, and camping. While Griffiths no longer actively competes, he has professionally coached powerlifting athletes in the past and coached both high school and college wrestling. Griffiths does his best to stay actively involved in both sports as time allows.

Jaan Kelly joined Lincoln Memorial University, School of Medical Sciences, in 2020 as Principal Didactic Faculty for the Physician Assistant program in Knoxville, Tennessee. Dr. Kelly earned her Master of Science in Physician Assistant Studies from Bethel College. She continued her education at Lincoln Memorial University, earning her Doctor of Medical Science degree with a focus on primary care medicine. Kelly has been in clinical practice since 2003. She has more than twenty years of experience in cardiology. She currently practices family medicine at Family Medicine West in Knoxville. Kelly is an adjunct professor for multiple physician assistant programs and a frequent speaker at continuing medical education conferences. When not at work, she enjoys time with her family, traveling, and doing anything outdoors.

Education:
Lincoln Memorial University
Doctor of Medical Science in Primary Care Medicine

Bethel College
Master of Science in Physician Assistant Studies 

University of Tennessee-Knoxville
Bachelor of Science in Nursing

Work Experience:
Clinical practice as a PA in cardiology and primary care.

Savannah Kidd is a nationally board-certified physician assistant and is licensed by the Tennessee State Board of Medical Examiners. She received her bachelor’s degree from the University of Southern Mississippi before attending LSU Health Sciences Center – New Orleans, where she earned her degree in Master of Physician Assistant Studies. As a native of southern Mississippi, Savannah relocated to the Knoxville area in 2020.  Savannah has practiced pain management in the hospital setting and currently works in clinical research at the University of Tennessee Medical Center.  Savannah is a fellow of the American Academy of Physician Assistants and the Tennessee Academy of Physician Assistants.  Savannah enjoys spending quality time with her family and her two dogs, live music, hiking, and LSU football when not teaching students.

Education:
Louisiana State University
Master of Science in Physician Assistant Studies 

University of Southern Mississippi
Bachelor of Science in Biologic Sciences

Rachel Kohn earned her bachelor’s degree from the University of Tennessee, Knoxville, before attending LMU, Harrogate, where she earned her Master of Medical Science in physician assistant studies. Rachel has practiced in general orthopedics as well as sports medicine.

Rachel was a collegiate soccer player who participated in many road and adventure races, which led to her love for sports medicine. Outside of work, Rachel enjoys spending time with her family, playing rec soccer, hiking/camping, and watching UT sports. Rachel loves mission work and has been on several mission trips. Her goal is to continue mission work as much as possible.

Education:
Lincoln Memorial University
Master of Medical Science in Physician Assistant Studies

University of Tennessee
Bachelor of Science in Education - Kinesiology

Work Experience:
Clinical practice as a PA in orthopedics and urgent care.

Stephanie Koonce joined Lincoln Memorial University, School of Medical Science (LMU-SMS) as the new Assistant Professor of Didactic Education for the Knoxville Physician Assistant program in February 2024. Koonce holds a Bachelor of Science in Clinical Laboratory Science and a Master’s in Physician Assistant Studies from Idaho State University. Koonce has over 18 years of experience as a physician assistant specializing in oncology/hematology and hybrid internal medicine/hospitality.

Outside of work, Stephanie finds joy in various outdoor activities like camping, fishing, hiking, and golfing. She also enjoys cycling, reading, cooking, and cherishing moments with her family.  

Erin Kramer, PA-C, brings over eight years of dedicated experience in orthopedic surgery to her role as Clinical Coordinator and Assistant Professor. She graduated from the Lincoln Memorial University (LMU) Harrogate Physician Assistant Program in 2014, earning her Master of Medical Science in Physician Assistant Studies, following her undergraduate studies at UT Knoxville.

In her clinical practice, Kramer's expertise lies in orthopedic surgery, where she has demonstrated a passion for patient care and surgical excellence. As a board-certified Physician Assistant (PA) and committed educator, she is dedicated to shaping the next generation of healthcare professionals, imparting her knowledge and skills to future PAs.

Outside of work, Kramer enjoys spending quality time with her husband, Justin, and their two sons, Cameron and Jackson. A proud VOLS fan, she relishes family moments, whether cheering on their favorite team, embracing the tranquility of the lake, or supporting her children in their sporting endeavors.

Education:
Lincoln Memorial University
Master of Medical Science in Physician Assistant Studies 

University of Tennessee-Knoxville
Bachelor of Science in Education, Kinesiology

Work Experience:
Clinical practice as a PA in orthopedics.

Paul Miller joined Lincoln Memorial University, School of Medical Sciences, as Professor and Director of Assessment in Knoxville, TN, in March 2024. Miller graduated from Vanderbilt University with a PhD in Cell and Developmental Biology. Dr. Miller completed his postdoctoral fellowship at Vanderbilt University Medical Center in the Department of Medicine-Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, where he researched heart disease's genetic and structural basis. He has worked in medical education for over ten years, teaching anatomy, neurology, pathology, and research-based courses.

Miller and his wife have one daughter. They enjoy traveling to the beach and mountains, miniature golf, and caring for their dogs and cat. 

Education:
South College
Master of Health Science in Physician Assistant Studies 

University of Tennessee-Knoxville
Bachelor of Science in Agriculture, Animal Science Production Management, Minor in Business

Work Experience:
Clinical practice as a PA in critical care medicine and urologic surgery.

Nimit Patel joined Lincoln Memorial University, School of Medical Sciences, on September 21, 2023, as an Anatomy Instructor for the Physician Assistant program in Knoxville, Tennessee. Patel earned his Master of Science in Biomedical Science from Lincoln Memorial University in 2023. He graduated from Augusta University in 2022 with a Bachelor of Science in Cell and Molecular Biology. Patel has worked as an EMT and certified pharmacy technician. In his free time, he enjoys playing pickleball and cooking.

Sonia Rupani, DMS, MS, AE-C, PA-C, is a dynamic leader who joined Lincoln Memorial University's School of Medical Sciences in 2019 as the Director of Clinical Education for the Physician Assistant program in Knoxville, Tennessee. With over a decade of experience as a licensed Physician Assistant (PA-C), Rupani brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to her role. Her commitment to advancing medical education is evident through her academic achievements. She earned her master's degree in advanced physician assistant studies and a Doctor of Medical Science from Lincoln Memorial University, focusing on Primary Care, Emergency Medicine, and Internal Medicine.

Dr. Rupani has a diverse clinical background encompassing primary care and urgent care settings. She holds a board certification as an Asthma Educator Specialist (NBRC), further showcasing her dedication to patient care and education. Rupani is also certified as an ACLS and BLS provider and instructor by the American Heart Association.

Dr. Rupani's passion for teaching is evident in her role as an educator, where she is deeply committed to shaping the future generation of PAs. Beyond the classroom, she actively contributes to the medical community by speaking at numerous Continuing Medical Education conferences and engaging in original research and publications. Rupani serves on many committees within and outside the institution to support the PA profession and LMU.

Throughout her career, Rupani has garnered several accolades, including recognition as the Valedictorian of her PA class and nominations for Clinician of the Year and Clinician of the Month by Pharmacy Times Magazine. She has also achieved academic honors, including Dean's and President's List and the Alpha-Chi award.

Outside of her professional endeavors, Dr. Rupani cherishes spending quality time with her family, where she finds joy and relaxation amidst her busy schedule.

Education:

Lincoln Memorial University
Doctor of Medical Science in Primary Care Medicine, Emergency Medicine, and Internal Medicine

 A.T. Still University
Master of Science in Advanced Physician Assistant Studies

John H Stroger Cook County Hospital-Malcolm X Physician Assistant Program
Associate of Science in Physician Assistant Studies

University of Mumbai
Bachelor of Science in Chemistry

State of Tennessee; The National Board for Respiratory Care
Asthma Educator Specialist (AE-C)

American Heart Association (AHA)
Certified Instructor for BLS and ACLS

Work Experience:

Clinical practice as a PA in Primary Care and Urgent Care.

 Mary Scott joined Lincoln Memorial University, School of Medical Sciences LMU-SMS) on January 2, 2024, as part of the didactic team for the Physician Assistant program in Knoxville, Tennessee. Scott earned her Doctor of Medicine in 1988 at the University of Kansas School of Medicine. She practiced in primary care, urgent care, and emergency medicine until 2003. In 2005, she entered full-time teaching of anatomy and physiology at the community college level. Scott enjoyed teaching clinical anatomy and sharing her clinical experiences to motivate future healthcare workers. She has shared her experiences and approaches through presentations at teaching conferences.

Dr. Scott enjoyed working with undergraduates but was looking for a new challenge. Learning of LMU-SMS and the need for another anatomy instructor was an opportunity she could not pass up. She enjoys being surrounded by faculty who are passionate about teaching and students who are eager to learn. Scott states, “She is delighted to utilize her clinical and teaching experiences fully. She hopes to continue to improve as a teacher and looks forward to helping prepare PA students for their future profession.”

Education:
University of South Carolina School of Medicine
Master of Physician Assistant Studies 

Gardner-Webb University
Bachelor of Science in Exercise Science

Work Experience:
Clinical practice as a PA in women’s health and gynecologic surgery.

Robert Wilmoth joined Lincoln Memorial University (LMU) School of Medical Sciences (SMS) as the Medical Director for the Physician Assistant program in Knoxville, Tennessee. Dr. Robert J. Wilmoth is a general surgeon in Middlesboro, Kentucky, and is affiliated with multiple hospitals in the area, including Middlesboro ARH Hospital and Claiborne Medical Center in Tazewell, Tennessee. He received his medical degree from the University of Tennessee Health Science Center College of Medicine and has practiced for over 20 years.

Education:
Lincoln Memorial University, Harrogate, Tennessee
Bachelor of Science, Chemistry

University of Tennessee, College of Medicine, Memphis, Tennessee
Doctor of Medicine

Licensure and Certification:

Board Certification, American Board of Surgery
Medical Licensure, State of Kentucky, and State of Tennessee
Advanced Trauma Life Support Certification
Advanced Cardiac Life Support Certification
Advanced Trauma Life Support Instructor
Pediatric Advanced Life Support Certification
American College of Surgeons Certification, "Ultrasound for Surgeons"
American College of Surgeons Certification, "Ultrasound in the Acute Setting"

Honors and Awards:

Physicians Recognition Award with Commendation, American Medical Association
Howard C. Filston Administrative Chief Resident, University of Tennessee Medical Center
Outstanding Laparoendoscopic Resident Award, Society of Laparoendoscopic Surgeons
Raymond Alexander Trauma Research Finalist, Eastern Association for the Surgery of Trauma
Kimball I. Maull Resident Research Award, University of Tennessee Medical Center at Knoxville
Resident Performance Award, University of Tennessee Medical Center at Knoxville
Scott B. Frame Memorial Trauma Scholarship, University of Tennessee Medical Center at Knoxville
UAP Clinical Scholar, University of Tennessee, College of Medicine 

Eric Winn joined Lincoln Memorial University, School of Medical Sciences, in 2021 as Lead Donor Dissector for the Physician Assistant program in Knoxville, Tennessee. Eric earned his Master of Science in Applied Anatomy from Case Western Reserve University in 2018. He attended the University of South Carolina, earning his Bachelor of Science in Biological Sciences. Eric has always had a love for anatomy and how it fits into the many facets of medical education. In his free time, he enjoys experimenting with new cooking recipes and binging on his favorite reality television shows.

Education

Case Western Reserve University
Masters of Science in Applied Anatomy

University of South Carolina
Bachelor of Science in Biological Sciences

Work Experience

Lincoln Memorial University, Physician Assistant Program, Knoxville, Tennessee
2022 - 2023
Donor Laboratory Coordinator

Lincoln Memorial University, Physician Assistant Program, Knoxville, Tennessee
2021 - 2022
Lead Donor Dissector

Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, Ohio
2017 - 2019
Gross Anatomy Graduate Teaching Assistant

Jan Brynda joined LMU in 2017 as an Administrative Assistant at the Cedar Bluff campus. In 2018, Brynda moved to the West Knox campus as a founding member of the PA Program in Knoxville, serving as the Program Administrative Coordinator.

Education: 

Ball State University, Muncie, IN
Degree:  BS in Journalism

Haley Parker joined Lincoln Memorial University School of Medical Sciences (LMU-SMS) on February 2024 as the clinical administrative assistant for the Knoxville Physician Assistant program. Parker has an extensive background in banking operations and administration.

Outside of her professional endeavors, Parker is an avid traveler who finds solace in spending time outdoors. Her favorite pastimes are camping, hiking, and attending live music events. With her passion for exploration and zest for life, Haley adds a dynamic energy to our community.

Amy Reed joined Lincoln Memorial University, School of Medical Sciences, in 2019 as the Admissions and Community Relations Coordinator for the Physician Assistant program in Knoxville, Tennessee. She is the primary contact with the Program for student applicants throughout the application and admission process. Throughout her twenty-five years of experience in higher education, Reed has worked in the areas of admissions, advancement, alumni relations, and event planning, bringing a culture of excellence to each position held. She regularly participates in additional training and discussions with PAEA (PA Education Association), CASPA (Centralized Application Service for PAs), NAAHP (National Association of Advisors for the Health Professions), and ETS (Educational Testing Service). She enjoys working with students and helping them navigate the steps to begin their professional journey. She enjoys working at LMU because it gives her a sense of team and family.

During her free time, she enjoys spending time with her family by visiting the theatre, trying new restaurants, and relaxing on the lake.

Education

Carson-Newman University

Bachelor of Arts in Biology and Sociology, Minor in Applied Psychology

Samintha Welch joined Lincoln Memorial University (LMU) in 2023 in the Security Department before moving to her current position as the Didactic Administrative Assistant for the LMU School of Medical Sciences Knoxville Physician Assistant Program. Welch's background includes various industries, including higher education. Welch holds an Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) Certification in Construction Safety and Health.

After a long day at the office, Welch enjoys gardening and spending time with family and friends.