Chelsea Byrd, graduate of Toll Gate High School 2009, has been awarded the Ryan J. O’Neill ELMPA Award at Quinnipiac University. The ELMPA (Entry-Level Master’s Physician Assistant) program at Quinnipiac is where outstanding students get the opportunity to complete undergraduate studies for a Bachelor of Science degree and immediately begin the graduate program to complete a Master’s degree for Physician Assistants. As defined in the ELMPA program directory, the award is presented to the ELMPA student in the graduating class who “most exemplifies excellent leadership, academic excellence, a cooperative attitude, and the strength of character of a future health care professional.”

At Quinnipiac, Byrd works as a tutor in the university’s Learning Center to assist other students in over 30 health science and language courses. She has participated in many community service activities, including leadership of the Nick M. Lucaj Volleyball Tournament to raise awareness and money for suicide prevention. She is also involved in several clubs at the university, such as the Invisible Children, Community Action Project, and Campus Ministry Clubs.

Byrd will acquire her BS degree in health and science studies this May, and she will then begin a rigorous 27 months of PA graduate school, including both didactic and clinical studies. She will complete graduate school in summer of 2015.

Byrd will receive the Ryan J. O’Neill ELMPA Award during the Senior Awards Ceremony to be held by Quinnipiac University on April 27.