After 15 years of dedicated service as Executive Program Director, Joseph M. Rifici, CAA, M.Ed., will take on a critical new role within the MSA program, Director of MSA Network Quality Assurance. Joe will use his extensive knowledge and insight of the MSA program network to support the program's quality standards and enhance our connections and collaboration across various teams. As Joe transitions into his new role, we look forward to the continued impact of his expertise and guidance.
Shane Angus, CAA, MSA, has stepped into the role of Executive Program Director as of September 1, 2024. An MSA program alumnus and program director of the Washington, D.C. location since 2011, Shane brings extensive experience in the CAA profession, proven leadership skills, and a strong commitment to advancing both the MSA program and the profession. In addition to his directorial roles, Shane has been actively involved in key organizations such as the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs, the Accreditation Association of Anesthesiologist Assistant Educational Programs, and the Anesthesia Patient Safety Foundation. His engagement with these organizations has deepened his expertise in educational quality and patient safety, positioning him to lead the program with a clear vision for the future. With a solid plan to elevate the program's reputation and reach, we are confident that Shane will guide the MSA program to new heights, continuing to build on the strong foundation laid by Joe Rifici.
In Cleveland, Carie Twichell, CAA, MSA has been selected to fill the role of Program Director. An MSA program alumna, Carie first started working with MSA students as a preceptor at MetroHealth and was later invited to join the MSA program in 2018 as the Assistant Program Director in Cleveland. Carie brings with her many years of leadership experience within the CAA profession, including serving a term as President of the American Academy of Anesthesiologist Assistants, the national professional organization for CAAs, and serving on multiple American Society of Anesthesiologist committees. Between her love for teaching and her passion for the profession, the Cleveland program location is in great hands to carry the legacy of the program into the future.
Congratulations to Shane, Joe, and Carie on their new roles. Their hard work and dedication have been key to our program's success, and we are excited about the opportunities that lie ahead.