Published on February 16, 2026 by Megan Winkler  
PA Class

Samford University’s 2025 physician assistant (PA) cohort earned a 100% first time pass rate on the Physician Assistant National Certifying Examination (PANCE), finishing nine points above the national average. The accomplishment highlights the students’ steady preparation and the dedication of the program’s faculty and staff. 

 “We truly believed that we could hit 100%,” said Wes Johnson,  associate professor and physician assistant program chair. “I am proud of the work this class put in and the unwavering dedication of our faculty, both as educators and mentors.”  

PANCE is the national certification exam for graduates of programs accredited by the Accreditation Review Commission on Education for the Physician Assistant, Inc. PA). Candidates must earn a minimum score of 350 on an exam that measures clinical knowledge, reasoning, medical skills and professional behaviors needed for entry level practice. 

At Samford, preparation for the exam begins on the first day of the program. 

 “The curriculum builds from semester to semester, gradually introducing students to board style testing,” Johnson said. “During their clinical year, students complete thousands of required board style questions in each core rotation to fully prepare them for the PANCE.” 

 Jessie Skinn, president of the 2025 class, shared how the faculty laid a strong foundation early in the program, making a meaningful difference in her education. 

“Our professors invested a lot of time in helping us build our clinical base,” Skinn said. “They challenged us to think critically and approach questions the way we would on the PANCE. Through clinical rotations, end of rotation exams and practice PANCE exams, I felt well prepared and confident going into the exam.” 

Aly Russell, also a member of the class, echoed that experience. “I felt exceptionally prepared for my board exam through the rigorous academics, high yield review sessions and unwavering faculty support,” she said. 

 Beyond academics, the program emphasizes a personal, relationship-based approach to training. Each student is paired with a faculty mentor who supports them throughout their time in the program. 

“I think what makes Samford different is the family environment we have developed in our department,” Johnson said. “It’s not enough to just pass the boards—we want our students to leave as better people. Watching our alumni in their careers, I have seen this year after year. Samford PAs are special, and I could not be prouder.” 

The 100% pass rate adds yet another strong testament to the program's strength. Grounded in Christian principles, the Department of Physician Assistant Studies seeks to prepare students in both mind and spirit, equipping them to deliver compassionate, patient-centered care and serve their communities with integrity. 

 Learn more about Samford’s Department of Physician Assistant Studies. 

 
Located in the Homewood suburb of Birmingham, Alabama, Samford is a leading Christian university offering undergraduate programs grounded in the liberal arts with an array of nationally recognized graduate and professional schools. Founded in 1841, Samford enrolls 6,324 students from 44 states, Puerto Rico and 16 countries in its 10 academic schools: arts, arts and sciences, business, divinity, education, health professions, law, nursing, pharmacy and public health. Samford is widely recognized as having one of the most beautiful campuses in America, featuring rolling hills, meticulously maintained grounds and Georgian-Colonial architecture. Samford fields 17 athletic teams that compete in the tradition-rich Southern Conference and boasts one of the highest scores in the nation for its 97% Graduation Success Rate among all NCAA Division I schools.