Rate My Professor Samantha Danek

Samantha Danek is an Assistant Professor in the Physician Assistant Studies program at Eastern Michigan University, part of the College of Health and Human Services. A distinguished physician assistant with 15 years of experience in the healthcare industry, she has made significant contributions through her academic teaching and professional service. Danek earned her Master of Science in Physician Assistant Studies from Wayne State University in 2009 and subsequently pursued an Executive Master’s in Health Management and Policy from the University of Michigan School of Public Health in 2022, driven by her extensive clinical experience. As a certified physician assistant (PA-C), she integrates practical healthcare knowledge into the 24-month graduate Physician Assistant program, which emphasizes basic medicine, clinical methods, critical thinking, ethical decision-making, and patient-centered care.

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.