Amber Murphy Prepares PAs for Both Practice and Compassion
Amber Murphy, MSSc, PA-C, assistant professor of Lawrence Technological University’s Physician Assistant Program, built her career on precision. First, in the operating room, and now in the classroom.
Growing up, Murphy was always interested in healthcare. After considering medical school, she selected the PA path because it offered the balance she wanted between professional ambition and lifestyle. That choice led her to orthopedic surgery, where adaptability, focus, and resilience were daily requirements.
“My surgical experience taught me to think critically, advocate confidently for clinical decisions, and maintain composure under pressure, skills which are equally valuable in the classroom,” Murphy said.
Her expertise and leadership naturally opened doors to teaching. Precepting clinical students and presenting at professional conferences inspired her to step into academia, first at the University of Florida and now at LTU. Along the way, she discovered what she values most: working directly with students.
“They keep me engaged, energized, and continually up to date,” Murphy said. “Just when I feel confident in the structure of a course, they bring fresh perspectives and insightful questions that make the learning experience dynamic for both of us.”
Preparing Students Beyond the Classroom
Murphy sees LTU’s strong commitment to community engagement as a hallmark of its PA program. Students train in HRSA-supported sites that serve underserved populations, gaining firsthand experience as primary care providers. They also volunteer at community health events, such as the Detroit Men’s Health Fair, LTU’s annual blood drive, and new partnerships with the American Red Cross.
These experiences are transformative:
“Providing care to underserved populations is a fundamental responsibility for healthcare providers,” she said. “These opportunities give our students the confidence and compassion they’ll carry into their future roles.”
Looking ahead, Murphy envisions LTU’s PA program becoming a statewide leader in community health initiatives. With the launch of LTU’s College of Health Sciences last year, she sees even greater opportunities to expand interprofessional care and community outreach.
“Amber Murphy embodies the very essence of a master educator in the health professions,” said Mary Schutten, Dean, LTU College of Health Sciences. “Her unwavering commitment to our physician assistant students extends beyond the classroom. She is not only imparting critical knowledge and skills but is also shaping the next generation of compassionate and competent healthcare providers. Amber’s dedication is a cornerstone of our college’s success.”
A Career Defined by Experience and Inspiration
Few people know Murphy has been a licensed PA in four states: Georgia, Missouri, Florida, and Michigan. This gives her a wide-ranging perspective on healthcare delivery.
“We are strategically located in a central area of Michigan that brings together the communities of Dearborn, Detroit, Southfield, and Macomb,” she said. “This unique positioning not only contributes to a diverse student body but also fosters strong community partnerships and numerous opportunities for volunteer engagement.”
Murphy brings that experience into the classroom, enriching her students’ understanding of how PAs can adapt and serve across diverse communities.
“I love being educated,” she said. “Every student brings their own background and diversity I can learn from. That’s what makes this work so rewarding.”
By: Ted Coutilish
