The goal and focus of the Committee are:

• To promote a diverse representation and leadership within the physician assistant profession and the California Academy of Physician Assistants
• To promote public awareness of the physician assistant profession
• To increase awareness of cultural diversity issues among practicing physician assistants and physician assistant students
• Select the recipient of the Ruth Webb Minority Scholarship

The terms of service on the Committee on Diversity are:
Appointment to the Committee is on an annual term, from July 1st through June 30th. Members may be appointed at any time during the year to fill a vacancy. Interest in reappointment to the Committee should be sent to the chair by early June.

Meetings: Most meetings will be via conference calls and occur 2 – 3 times annually. The Committee may also meet in person a few times annually as needed. Committee members will be reimbursed for approved expenses relating to participation on the Committee. Other communication will be via email or telephone.

Tasks:

• Development and presentation of materials to educate practicing physician assistants and physician assistant students regarding diversity and cultural issues
• Visit local schools to promote the PA profession 
• Development of mechanisms to increase recruitment and retention of minority applicants to PA Programs
• Review applications and select the recipient of the Ruth Webb Minority Scholarship
• Mentor minority physician assistants for leadership positions within the physician assistant profession and CAPA

What type of person is the Committee seeking?

• One who is a CAPA member
• Those who respect and meet deadlines
• Those with a willingness to participate and an interest in diversity issues
• Those willing to consider multiple perspectives or points of view
• Those able to mentor or be a role model for minority students
• Those able to interact with community advocates and leaders