Virginia L. Valentin is an Associate Professor who serves as the Chair for the Department of Physician Assistant studies at the University of Kentucky. Dr. Valentin oversees the Physician Assistant Master’s and residency where she works to increase access to care in Kentucky with a focus on rural healthcare. 

Dr. Valentin’s clinical background includes internal medicine, neurosurgery, and oncology. She utilizes her decades of clinical practice in her mentoring and teaching. Dr. Valentin has a track record of service including as the president of Kentucky Academy of Physician Assistants, member of the PA Education Association Government Relations Steering Committee, Research Mission Advancement Committee, and director at large board member.

Dr. Valentin’s research focus is on the PA workforce and understanding the utilization of PAs and barriers to providing patient care. Her goal is to engage faculty and students in research that builds the knowledge PA healthcare impacts.

Dr. Valentin received her Doctorate of Public Health with a focus in epidemiology from the University of Kentucky, a Master’s in PA Studies from Barry University, and RN degree from Weber State University’s nursing program.