MBKU Names Greta Vines-Douglas Director of Physician Assistant Studies
Marshall B. Ketchum University (MBKU) has appointed Greta Vines-Douglas, MS, PA-C, as the new director of its School of Physician Assistant Studies (SPAS). The selection reinforces the university’s long-standing commitment to community health and to advancing physician assistant education through purposeful, people-centered training.
Education and Career Foundations
Vines-Douglas comes to the role with a well-rounded academic path and deep clinical experience. She earned a bachelor’s degree in exercise science from the University of Southern California, followed by a PA certificate from Western University of Health Sciences. She then completed a master’s degree in health science at California State University, Dominguez Hills, with an emphasis on education. Across more than two decades in practice, she has focused on family medicine and pediatrics, primarily caring for LatinX communities throughout California. That work—steady, local, and community-facing—has shaped the way she thinks about access, prevention, and trust in care.
Looking Ahead
“I am thrilled to join Marshall B. Ketchum University as director of its School of Physician Assistant Studies,” Vines-Douglas said. “What drew me to MBKU is their vision for doing things differently, particularly their dedication to diversity, equity, and inclusion.” In stepping into the role, she underscored the importance of supporting faculty and staff and broadening diversity within the PA profession. The throughline is clear: a program that welcomes more voices trains clinicians who can meet more patients where they are.
Leadership Shaped by Experience
Vines-Douglas brings more than 13 years in PA education, coupled with leadership roles at Charles R. Drew University of Medicine and Science and Western University of Health Sciences. Her academic interests center on faculty development, expanding diversity in the PA pipeline, and tackling healthcare inequities—areas she has explored through research and presentations that spotlight underserved populations. The combination of classroom leadership and community-based insight positions her to guide SPAS with both rigor and empathy.
Focus on Community and Students
“We are excited to welcome Greta Vines-Douglas to our leadership team,” said Dr. Julie A. Schornack, president of MBKU. “Her extensive experience, dedication, and commitment to students align perfectly with our mission and values. We are confident that under her leadership, SPAS will excel greatly.” Early priorities reflect that alignment: strengthening faculty development through targeted workshops, raising the program’s visibility, and ensuring students participate in meaningful service-learning. The aim is straightforward—prepare future PAs who learn by serving and serve by learning.
About Marshall B. Ketchum University
Located in Fullerton, California, Marshall B. Ketchum University (MBKU) is an independent, private, non-profit, accredited institution founded in 1904. The university includes three primary schools: the Southern California College of Optometry, the School of Physician Assistant Studies, and the College of Pharmacy. Across these programs, MBKU trains future healthcare leaders through innovative, rigorous academics that emphasize hands-on learning and patient-centered care.
MBKU delivers high-quality clinical education with attention to technology and expert diagnosis. Small class sizes foster a personal learning experience where diverse and inclusive practices are woven into everyday teaching. Beyond the classroom, the university provides comprehensive eye care and primary medical services through its clinics and health centers, extending its mission into the community it serves.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is Greta Vines-Douglas?
Greta Vines-Douglas, MS, PA-C, is the newly appointed director of the School of Physician Assistant Studies at Marshall B. Ketchum University. She brings over two decades in clinical practice and more than 13 years in PA education.
What is her educational background?
She holds a bachelor’s degree in exercise science from the University of Southern California, a PA certificate from Western University of Health Sciences, and a master’s degree in health science with an emphasis on education from California State University, Dominguez Hills.
What experience does she have working with communities?
Much of her clinical career has been in family medicine and pediatrics, primarily serving LatinX communities in California, with an emphasis on access and culturally responsive care.
What are her priorities for SPAS?
Her immediate goals include strengthening faculty development through workshops, increasing the program’s visibility, and ensuring students engage in meaningful service-learning opportunities.
What is MBKU’s mission and scope?
MBKU prepares future healthcare leaders through rigorous, innovative programs in optometry, physician assistant studies, and pharmacy. Based in Fullerton, California, the university features small class sizes, inclusive practices, and community clinics that provide comprehensive eye care and primary medical services.
