05/20/2026
Ohio's Josanne Pagel Honored with AAPA House Outstanding Service Award
The American Academy of Physician Associates has honored Ohio's Rev. Josanne Kissel Pagel M.Div., MPAS, PA-C, DFAAPA, C-EBS, Karuna®RMT with the 2026 House Outstanding Service Award!
The House Outstanding Service Award (HOSA) is presented by the House Officers during the annual House of Delegates meeting to recognize an individual who has made significant and sustained contributions to the work of the HOD.
Nominees are typically considered based on factors such as long-term service (generally 7+ years as a delegate), active involvement in HOD committees or initiatives, meaningful contributions to the policy-making process, and a demonstrated commitment to supporting and mentoring fellow delegates.
A few highlights from her nominations include 20+ years as a delegate, service on multiple committees, commissions, and task forces, dedication as a mentor and role model to many delegates, willigness to help less experienced delegates, and tireless work trying to improve policies for PAs.
Rev. Josanne Kissel Pagel M.Div., MPAS, PA-C, DFAAPA, C-EBS, Karuna®RMT, retired as Executive Director of PA Services at Cleveland Clinic, where she was responsible for the oversight, compliance, utilization, and productivity of all PAs, ensuring they practiced within a team-based model to promote and enhance patient access and care. A former AAPA President and Lifetime Achievement Award recipient, she has held numerous national and state-level leadership roles. With more than 45 years in clinical practice and 35 in administration, she’s known for advocacy, leadership education, and legislative reform. Pagel began as a Peace Corps volunteer and continues to teach, mentor future PAs, and advocate for the PA profession.
"I am honored and so surprised to accept the House Outstanding Service Award this year in the House of Delegates at AAPA 2026 meeting. I've participated in the HOD since the early 90's, loving the comraderie, debate, and networking that it always gives. Being a delegate has given me the opportunity to create policies, mentor up-coming leaders, and see old and new friends every year. I am deeply humbled to receive this award."
OAPA celebrates the good work of our members and congratulates Josanne on this well-deserved professional achievement!
Thank you to fellow Ohio Delegate Melissa Bowlby for capturing these images at the 2026 AAPA House of Delegates in New Orleans, LA.