Welcome to
Lillie-Kate
BUILDING A PATHWAY TO PA-C
The National Commission on Certification of Physician Assistant released their statistical profile and it shows that as of 2024, there are over 178,000 practicing physician assistants in the United States. Of those, 3.7% identify themselves as black. This is why we've made it our mission to increase adequate representation among aspiring PAs by offering tips and tools to help navigate the path to becoming a healthcare professional.
OUR HISTORY
In 2019, our Executive Director reached out to the Physician Assistant (PA) program at Francis Marion University with a vision: to create a scholarship that would support underrepresented minorities pursuing careers in medicine. This vision led to the establishment of the Lillie-Kate Scholarship, aimed at providing financial assistance to minority students enrolled in PA school. A traditional scholarship was successfully launched, and an endowed scholarship was well underway when, unexpectedly, the PA program at Francis Marion University was dissolved.
Faced with a critical decision—either start a new at a different institution or take a broader step—he chose to create something greater. With the support of committed friends, colleagues, and community leaders, the Lillie-Kate Foundation was born. Since its inception, Lillie-Kate has awarded over $25,000 in scholarships and awards to PA students, along with providing mentorship, resources, and encouragement throughout their academic journeys. Our White Coat Initiative has proudly supplied white coats to students entering their second year—a symbolic and practical gesture of support as they advance in their training. One thing has remained constant: our unwavering commitment to increasing diversity within the PA profession.
With your continued support, we will keep empowering the next generation of healthcare providers to deliver compassionate, culturally competent care where it’s needed most.
GET INVOLVED
Over the past few years, we've listened closely to PA students, and two consistent needs have emerged: financial support and clinical rotation opportunities.
If you’re in a position to give, we invite you to click the DONATE button. Every dollar goes directly toward scholarships, white coats, and essential resources for students striving to become compassionate, skilled healthcare providers. We’re proud to guarantee that 100% of your donation supports the students we serve.
If you're a practicing PA, your role can be just as powerful. Offering clinical rotation opportunities at your clinic or practice can provide invaluable experience for a student working to enter the field. If you're open to supporting in this way, please reach out—we’d love to connect with you.
Together, we can make the path to becoming a PA more accessible, equitable, and supportive.
SUPPORT THE FUTURE OF HEALTHCARE
We invite you to consider making a donation to Lillie-Kate. As a registered 501(c)3 organization, your contribution is tax-deductible and will go directly toward empowering the next generation of healthcare providers.
100% of all donations are dedicated to supporting students in their journey to become exceptional Physician Assistants. With your help, we can continue to remove financial barriers and provide the resources necessary for success.
