Kathy Johnson

Ms. Johnson graduated from the University of New Mexico Physician Assistant Program with a bachelor’s degree in 2003. She focused her clinical career on complex internal medicine patients at the UNM Senior Health Clinic. She was a regular educator of inter-professional health science students leading her to obtain a Master of Education in 2012, specializing in Organizational Learning and Instructional Technologies. She became full-time Faculty at the UNM PA Program in 2011 and maintained Faculty clinical duties. She was promoted to Academic Coordinator in 2013; a position that required expanded knowledge in all topics related to primary care medicine, clinical problem solving, foundations of research methodology, and adult learning theories and applications. Ms. Johnson retired from UNM in 2018.

In addition to a busy career, Ms. Johnson was a leader with the NM PA Academy, a constituent organization of the American Academy of PAs. She held many Board of Director positions, and received many awards, including the Gerald H. Ross, PA-C Lifetime Achievement Award. She represented NM PAs in the AAPA House of Delegates for many years and served on the Professional Standards Reference Committee.  She continues to remain active in Academy efforts related to CME, legislative, and regulatory affairs.

In the community, Ms. Johnson has facilitated Nar-Anon meetings for families experiencing drug addiction, and volunteers for Heading Home, Beads of Courage, and the Blue Wrap Project. Ms. Johnson has a deep commitment to the art and science of medicine and hopes to have the privilege of connecting with patients in a meaningful way. She values a patient’s perspective. Each person has a unique set of concerns that deserve attention. With care, health can be improved and quality of life enriched.