Master of Physician Assistant Students Association (MPASSA)
The Master of Physician Assistant Studies Student Association (MPASSA) is a student-led organization representing the interests of MPAS students at the University of Calgary. MPASSA is focused on enhancing students experiences by co-creating opportunities to improve the program. Students are encouraged to lead, engage, and build connections within and beyond the university through shadowing and networking opportunities.
To get involved or share ideas, feel free to reach out via email at sampas@ucalgary.ca. We’re here to support you throughout your MPAS journey!
Featured MPASSA events
The MPASSA members will join Faculty of Graduate Studies Health GRADhour on March 5, 2026. This event is designed to help prospective students explore health‑related graduate program options, make meaningful connections, and get their questions answered in a relaxed, social setting. Please sign up via the link below.
MPASSA Executive Members
Co-Presidents
The Co-Presidents provide joint leadership for MPASSA, representing the association to faculty and relevant parties, overseeing strategic planning, and chairing executive meetings. They work to ensure open communication, plan annual initiatives, and foster an inclusive environment.
Axel Florian Mouaffo
Meet Axel, the MPASSA President. Axel is honoured to take on this role at the Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary. Axel looks forward to collaborating with classmates, faculty, and healthcare professionals to foster a welcoming and supportive environment where current and prospective students feel heard, valued, and represented. He is also passionate about advocating for the growth and recognition of the Physician Assistant profession in Alberta and across Canada.
Adia Hutton-Sauder
Adia is excited to serve as the current Co-President of MPASSA! She is passionate about supporting not only her classmates, but also other advocacy students! Growing up in a small town taught her the importance of community (and recognizing everyone in the grocery store), and she is eager to bring that perspective to create a supportive and inclusive program.
Academic Chair
The Academic Chair advocates for students’ academic needs, collaborates on curriculum development, and provides academic support through feedback and mentorship opportunities.
Antoine (Tony) Manache
As the Academic Chair, Antoine looks forward to representing the cohort by communicating students’ feedback and concerns to faculty and advocating for the best possible learning experience. Antoine is also an International Medical Graduate who sees the Physician Assistant program as an opportunity to build on existing medical knowledge while developing new skills. He is excited to join Canada’s healthcare community and contribute to patient care as a future Physician Assistant.
Admissions Chair
The Admissions Chair advocates for a student-centered admissions process, contributes to onboarding, and supports the development of a welcoming environment for incoming students.
Abby Heron
Abby is excited to be part of MPASSA as the Admissions Chair! Having navigated the PA application process herself, she understands the challenges of exploring different programs, preparing a competitive application, and learning about a growing profession that is still relatively new to Canada. Through this role, she hopes to help prospective applicants feel more informed, supported, and confident as they navigate their journey toward becoming a PA. Abby is passionate about making the application process feel more approachable and ensuring that students feel seen, heard, and encouraged throughout their journey.
Communications Chair
The Communications Chair develops and implements MPASSA’s communication strategy to ensure clear, consistent, and engaging messaging. This role manages internal and external communication channels and oversees social media platforms to highlight student activities, promote initiatives, and strengthen the MPASSA community presence.
Bryan Ly
Bryan is thrilled to be the incoming Communications Chair. He loves photography and videography, capturing moments in-class and during external events. He is ready to further advocate for the physician assistant profession and the University of Calgary MPAS program. Utilizing his skills, creativity, and energetic personality to curate a safe, inviting and fun social media presence for the MPASSA.
Events Chair
The Events Chair organizes social events to foster student engagement and build a sense of community. This role coordinates gatherings that provide opportunities for networking and relaxation.
Sydney Mueller
Sydney is excited to be part of MPASSA as the Events Chair! She is passionate about bringing people together and creating opportunities for students to connect beyond the classroom. Through organizing social events and cohort activities, she hopes to foster a welcoming, supportive, and fun environment throughout the PA program. Sydney is eager to help build a strong sense of community within her cohort while celebrating the milestones and experiences that make their journey unique.
External Relations Chair
The External Relations Chair is responsible for building relationships with external stakeholders, creates networking opportunities for students, and represents MPASSA to external organizations and the public.
Allison MacDonald
Allison is excited to serve as the External Relations Chair for the Class of 2028! She looks forward to building meaningful connections and representing her classmates across Alberta and at the national level by strengthening the relationship between the class and the Canadian Association of Physician Assistants (CAPA).
Finance Co-Chairs
The Finance Co-Chairs oversee MPASSA's financial activities, including budgeting, fundraising, and financial transparency. They work together to manage financial planning and reporting.
Julie Nguyen
Year 1 Financial Chair
As MPASSA’s Finance Chair, Julie is excited to help bring student ideas to life while keeping the finances balanced. She believes school is about more than just studying, and that being part of a close-knit cohort of just 20 students creates the perfect opportunity to get to know one another and build fun, meaningful experiences together. She loves seeing MPASSA ideas come to life and helping make them happen without breaking the bank!
Seana Barbeau
Year 2 Financial Chair
Seana loves a good spreadsheet, staying organized, and putting her entrepreneurial spirit to use. Before joining the program, Seana ran her own freelance business, managing everything from finances and advertising to tax reporting.