Tessa Tibben, DHSc, MSPAS, PA-C

Dr. Tibben was born and raised in the Phoenix-metropolitan area. She attended Arizona School of Health Sciences (ASHS) at A.T. Still University (ATSU) graduating from their physician assistant program 2008. Clinically, Dr. Tibben has a background in family medicine and since 2018, she has worked as a PA at Circle the City. Circle the City is a FQHC providing integrated medical and behavioral health services for the population experiencing homelessness in Maricopa County. Serving on medical missions or humanitarian trips abroad is another passion of hers, and she has been to Lebanon, Kenya, and Egypt.

Tessa’s academic journey began in 2009. Encouraged by her faculty, she became an adjunct professor at ASHS, primarily assisting with proctoring practical examinations. She then served as a family medicine preceptor for about a year. Prompted by two PA colleagues, she explored a full-time position in PA academia. In 2013, she transitioned into a Clinical Coordinator role at ASHS-ATSU and was promoted to Director of Clinical Education 18 months later.

While she enjoyed developing community partner sites and honing her leadership skills, she longed for more direct mentoring of PA students. She transitioned to a faculty role on the didactic side of the PA program, primarily teaching and directing courses in the History & Physical Exam series and the Introduction to Patient Assessment course.