Rate My Professor Samantha Danek

Danek demonstrates profound commitment to healthcare policy and advocacy, particularly for mental health access and parity. In 2019, she was appointed by Governor Gretchen Whitmer to the Michigan Board of Osteopathic Medicine. She serves on the Legislative Committee of the Michigan Academy of Physician Assistants, actively participating in shaping legislative policies to improve mental health services. Her innovative approach to student wellness is highlighted by her mini-grant-funded project, “Bright Light Therapy: Enhancing Emotional Wellness in Physician Assistant Education.” This initiative introduces four 10,000-lux bright light therapy lamps in small-group study areas, accessible 24/7, to counteract seasonal affective disorder risks faced by physician assistant students due to intensive schedules and limited sunlight exposure. The project employs a sign-in system and end-of-semester surveys to measure usage, feedback, and effectiveness, supporting students' demanding academic routines. Danek has presented on bright light therapy to enhance emotional wellness, further contributing to faculty development and student health initiatives at the university.