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How K-State and Stormont Vail Health Develop Future Healthcare Leaders
From Classroom to Community: How K-State and Stormont Vail Health Grows Kansas’ Future Healthcare Leaders
When Kansas State University and Stormont Vail Health announced their expanded partnership, the goal was clear: to create a seamless bridge between education and practice—and, in doing so, strengthen and reshape healthcare access, education, and innovation across Kansas.
For Michael Prichard, PA, that bridge became a personal pathway. A graduate of K-State’s inaugural Physician Assistant (PA) class, Michael now serves patients at the Stormont Vail Health Flint Hills Campus in Junction City, where his story perfectly reflects what this collaboration was designed to achieve: keeping compassionate, capable providers rooted in the communities that need them most.
This past fall, Michael celebrated his one-year anniversary with Stormont Vail, a milestone marking his professional growth as well as the ongoing success of the partnership that helped launch his medical career as a provider.
A Calling Rooted in Experience
Michael’s path toward healthcare began long before he ever donned a white coat. Living with Type 1 diabetes inspired him to turn personal experience into purpose.
“I wanted to give the same care that I received as a patient to future patients as a provider myself,” he said.
When it came time to choose a PA program, K-State stood out. Its mission—to serve communities, promote wellness, and educate well-rounded providers—matched how he envisioned his career.
“I chose K-State because their mission and vision statements lined up well with how I wanted to practice.”
Part of Something New
Being part of K-State’s first-ever PA class was, as Michael described, “pretty surreal.” His cohort wasn’t just earning degrees, they were helping shape the foundation for future students.
Between long hours of study and exams, intramural volleyball games offered welcome relief. But the experience wasn’t without its challenges.
“I think my immune system decided it needed a break too. I got sick almost every time we had a week off!”
Those challenges built resilience and reinforced the importance of balance, teamwork, and self-care, all qualities that now guide his approach to patient care.
From Student to Provider: A Seamless Transition
Thanks to the K-State and Stormont Vail partnership, Michael’s transition from student to practicing PA was smoother than most. The collaboration provides students with clinical rotations, mentorship, and real-world experience within the Stormont Vail system, ensuring they graduate ready to serve.
“My onboarding at Stormont Vail was excellent,” he said. “I had several contacts willing to answer any questions and walk me through the process.”
That familiarity helped him feel confident and connected from day one.
“Knowing providers and the network of resources as a student helped me feel at home very quickly once I started at Stormont.”
Learning, Growing, and Giving Back
One year into his career, Michael reflects on how much he’s grown—both professionally and personally.
“It was very difficult at the beginning,” he admitted. “But I’ve learned to be patient with myself. I’ve gained confidence in my abilities and love being able to serve patients.”
He credits both institutions for cultivating that growth. K-State equipped him with the adaptability to keep learning; Stormont Vail provided the mentorship and support to turn knowledge into impact.
A Partnership That Strengthens Kansas
For Michael, the benefits of this collaboration extend far beyond his own journey.
“I have several colleagues who went through the K-State program who are now Stormont providers,” he said. “It’s an incredible asset for this region.”
This partnership is intentionally local and designed to educate, train, and retain healthcare professionals across Kansas communities.
“I see myself serving patients for Stormont in the area for years to come,” Michael said. “We like the Flint Hills too much to consider otherwise.”
By combining K-State’s academic foundation with Stormont Vail’s clinical expertise, the collaboration strengthens the state’s healthcare workforce and ensures patients receive quality care close to home. It also fosters new opportunities for research collaboration, simulation-based training, and mentorship, offering PA students an experience that’s both academically rigorous and deeply practical.
Building the Future of Care in Kansas
The partnership between K-State and Stormont Vail is more than an agreement; it’s a pipeline, a mentorship network, and a commitment to the future of healthcare in Kansas.
It proves that when academic vision meets community care, everyone benefits: students, providers, and most importantly, patients.
Michael Prichard’s story shows what’s possible when education and practice align with purpose.
“School is challenging,” he said. “But the reward is great. Getting to know others and serve them through medical knowledge is a great privilege that K-State and Stormont Vail help you reach.”
From classroom to community, Michael represents the next generation of healthcare leaders: trained in Kansas, serving Kansas, and shaping its health for years to come.
Learn More
Explore the partnership details and research initiatives at k-state.edu, stormontvail.org, or:
