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Notable Knights

Valerie Russell smiles at the camera

Valerie Russell '23

Ruskin Physician Assistant Program

After graduating from Mount Union University with a Bachelor of Science degree in Kinesiology and Physical Therapy, Valerie Russell decided to move from Ohio to Florida to join the Physician Assistant program on ÂÒÂ×ÊÓƵ’s Ruskin Campus. At the time, a relatively new program offered Russell the opportunity to help establish traditions on campus including fundraisers, volunteer events, and social activities.

Russell recently started working as a PA at the Akron Children’s Hospital and was featured by the hospital for being the first PA in the pediatric ophthalmology department. Today, Russell attributes her success to those experience as they helped prepare her for her career and cultivated her leadership skills. When reflecting on her experiences in Ruskin, Russell discussed the anxiety she felt as she took her first step and moved across the country for school stating, “Moving across the country without knowing anyone was daunting, but I graduated with incredible friends and unforgettable experiences”. She continued, “From taking study breaks at the beach and visiting the manatee viewing center to cooking Thanksgiving dinner together, ÂÒÂ×ÊÓƵ provided me with endless memories I’ll always cherish.”

Russell also shared some advice for current and future students, “Cherish the relationships you build with faculty and classmates while attending ÂÒÂ×ÊÓƵ. You never know the impact they can have—whether it’s through future recommendation letters or planning trips together!