This year, the NCAPA Membership Committee received a record number of submissions and the committee conducted a thorough review of the nominations for this year’s group of very deserving PAs. We are so excited to announce that the 2023 NC PA of the Year is Christopher Craig, PA-C!
PA Craig started his long career of public service at 18 years old as an Ocean Lifeguard in Ocean City, MD. While earning his Bachelor’s Degree from Davidson College, PA Craig worked as a medic for the North Mecklenburg Rescue Squad in Huntersville, NC. After graduation, he started working for the US Department of Homeland Security where he served in many roles, including as a tactical medic. After working closely with FEMA and the US Coast Guard Auxiliary, PA Craig was inspired to pursue a career in patient care, and graduated from Wake Forest’s PA Program in 2008.
For the last fifteen years, he has practiced in burn care and surgery, and has dedicated himself to the advancement of the care of burn patients. Referred to by his colleagues as “a PA’s PA”, he frequently presents CME on burn management as well as precepting PA and NP students each year. The recipient of numerous awards at the local and national levels, PA Craig was exceptionally honored to be entered into the US Senate record by former Sen. Kay Hagan in recognition for his medical volunteerism. In 2019, PA Craig received his Doctoral Degree with honors from the University of Lynchburg.
To quote his colleague Allie Wilson, “As I write this nomination, I am dumbfounded with the extensive level Chris not only demonstrates and promotes the PA profession, but the caliber to which his actions have elevated the PA profession to as a whole. Having the esteemed privilege of knowing Chris both professionally as a colleague, as well as personally as a good friend, I can assure you he is remarkable.”
Congratulations, Chris, on this well-deserved achievement!
