“I am extremely appreciative of the recognition and believe that this honor is a testament to all of my peers and mentors in the PA profession who have led the way for me thus far in my early career,” Williams said.

“At Quinnipiac, we are blessed with a PA program whose culture encourages excellence in and out of the classroom, as my peers and program’s faculty are dedicated to improving patient care and motivating others around them to do the same," said Williams. "Each day, I am surrounded by many incredible peers and faculty who continue to support me through my journey as a PA student, while motivating me through their own accomplishments.”

In presenting the award, Nick Patino, chair of ConnAPA’s Student Engagement Committee, said, “Alec has taken on even more of a leadership role in his position, planning the PA student Toy Drive this past Christmas where PA students donated over 2,500 toys to children in need this past holiday season. He is always the first person to volunteer to help."

“On the national stage, Alec has risen to the heights of leadership position in the American Academy of Physician Associates Student Academy as chief delegate and as a member of the Student Board of Directors," said Patino.  "Notably, he co-authored a House of Delegates resolution on non-discrimination philosophy in organ and blood donation and was a member of an AAPA task force on inclusion and diversity.”

Timothy Ferrarotti, director and chair of Quinnipiac’s PA Program and Joshua Freund, clinical assistant professor and coordinator of clinical education for Quinnipiac’s PA program, nominated Williams for the award.

“While numerous accolades could be bestowed upon Alec, it is his humble nature and pleasant demeanor that is most likable for a young man who has accomplished so much and continues to look for ways to affect needed change in his classroom, profession, and community,” they wrote.

Johanna D’Addario, chair of ConnAPA’s Nominations and Elections Committee, said, “We are proud to share this award with you based on your numerous accomplishments and nomination from your QU faculty.”

Williams received his bachelor’s degree in health science studies from Quinnipiac in 2022. He will graduate from the physician assistant program this year. After graduation, he hopes to work as a PA in orthopedic trauma surgery, both assisting in the operating room and managing patients on the floor.

“I have a deeply rooted, medical-affiliated family,” Williams said. “The PA profession intrigued me as physician assistants are able to blend a medical school education with compassionate bedside care in their ability to diagnose, order labs or imaging and prescribe treatments to patients under their care.”