Return to Normal Operations
Lincoln Memorial University will return to normal operations, Wednesday, January 28, 2026, and will operate on a regular schedule at all locations, including J. Frank White Academy.
While conditions have improved, the University cannot monitor every roadway or local condition at all times across each location. Students, faculty, and staff are asked to use their personal judgment regarding travel and safety based on current conditions in their area. Safety remains our top priority, and individuals should take appropriate precautions as needed.
Please continue to monitor official University communication channels for any additional information.
Thank you for your cooperation as we move forward safely and responsibly.
University leadership, facilities, safety, and emergency management teams will continue to monitor temperatures, road conditions, and evolving weather impacts. The safety of our students, faculty, and staff remains the highest priority, and decisions will continue to be made thoughtfully based on local conditions.
Please continue to monitor official University communication channels, including University email and website updates, for any additional information or schedule changes.
Thank you for your cooperation as we continue to manage these conditions safely and responsibly.
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
Office Phone: 865.338.5723
Email: dustin.bates@lmunet.edu
Office Number: 865.338.5748
Email: holly.apodaca@lmunet.edu
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
Office Number: 865.338.5733
Email: sarah.campbell@lmunet.edu
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.
Office Phone: 865.338.5738
Email: daniel.drinnen@lmunet.edu
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.
Office Phone: 865.338.5740
Email: ashley.foster@lmunet.edu
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.
Office Phone: 865.338.5718
Email: kaitlin.greene@lmunet.edu
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.
Office Phone: 865.338.5686
Email: matthews.griffiths@lmunet.edu
Aaron Harris joined Lincoln Memorial University, School of Medical Sciences, in 2025 as an Assistant Professor for the Physician Assistant (PA) program in Knoxville, Tennessee. A native of East Tennessee, Harris is a graduate of the University of Tennessee (BA) and the University of Tennessee Health Science Center (MMS-PA). Since 2016, he has practiced as a physician assistant in family medicine and continues to provide care one day a week. With a background in education that spans from middle school classrooms to graduate-level instruction. Harris has served primarily as principal faculty in physician assistant programs for the past three years. He is excited to join the PA team at LMU-Knoxville.
Harris and his spouse, Sarah, enjoy spending time outside with their three children, especially traveling, hiking, and birding. An avid runner, he has also had the opportunity to run in the Boston Marathon.
Office Phone: 865.338.5714
Email: aaron.harris@lmunet.edu
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.
Office Phone: 865.338.5757
Email: jaan.kelly@lmunet.edu
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
Office Phone: 865.338.5764
Email: savannah.kidd@lmunet.edu
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.
Office Phone: 865.338.5785
Email: rachel.kohn@lmunet.edu
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.
Office Phone: 865.338.5783
Email: erin.kramer@lmunet.edu
Office Phone: 865.338.5732
Email: hannah.maus@lmunet.edu
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.
Office Phone: 865.338.5767
Email: catherine.neal@lmunet.edu
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.
Office Phone: 865.338.5707
Email: sonia.rupani@lmunet.edu
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.”
Office Phone: 865.338.5681
Email: mary.scott@lmunet.edu
Mary “Mollie” Strickler has joined Lincoln Memorial University’s School of Medical Sciences (LMU-SMS) as principal faculty for the Physician Assistant program in Knoxville, Tennessee.
Strickler is a physician assistant born and raised in Knoxville. She earned a BA in political science from Wheaton College in Illinois and worked as a legal assistant for a law firm in Durham, North Carolina. Though she originally planned to attend law school, Strickler instead trained as a DONA-certified doula at NC Women’s Hospital, where she supported birthing women and mentored new doulas.
She completed her PA school prerequisites through a post-baccalaureate program at the University of North Carolina (UNC). She then earned her PA degree from Jefferson College of Health Sciences (now Radford University) in Virginia. Strickler has worked in primary care with Healthstar Physicians for eight years, supplementing her clinical work with PRN shifts in urgent care. She particularly enjoys anything that can be sutured, popped, frozen, injected, or dissected.
Outside of work, Mary enjoys spending time with her husband, two children, a hound dog, and several cats. Her hobbies include home improvement projects, artsy crafts, and swimming.
Office Phone: 865.338.5697
Email: mary.strickler@lmunet.edu
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.
Office Phone: 865.338.5786
Email: catherine.taylor@lmunet.edu
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
Office Phone: 865.338.5734
Email: haley.parker@lmunet.edu
Office Phone: 865.338.5685
Email: amy.reed@lmunet.edu
Office Phone: 865.338.5717
Email: samintha.welch@lmunet.edu
