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Dr. Joshua Fairbanks

Assistant Professor, Department Chair of the Department of Medical Sciences and Program Director of the Physician Assistant Studies Program

Bio

For me, teaching is more than just imparting knowledge and skills; it’s about igniting curiosity and a love for learning. Reflecting on my own journey as a student, I realize that the educators who left the greatest impact were the ones who genuinely cared about their students’ growth and well-being. Their passion for the subject matter was infectious, drawing us in effortlessly.

My purpose comes alive in empowering both my students and colleagues to reach their full potential. I strive to emulate those impactful teachers by being a guiding light of inspiration in my students’ journeys. Every interaction with my students is an opportunity to make a meaningful difference, bringing the material to life and fostering engaging discussions in every class. It’s not just about teaching; it’s about connecting on a personal level and creating a transformative learning experience.

I’m privileged to serve not just as a teacher but as the head of a department filled with passionate educators. Embracing the administrative side of higher education has been unexpectedly fulfilling, as I collaborate with my team to cultivate a vibrant culture of learning and inquiry.

My role involves steering the strategic expansion and innovation of our programs, nurturing the growth and achievement of both students and faculty, and overseeing the smooth operation of our Physician Assistant Studies Program, Doctor of Medical Science Program, and undergraduate Science Core courses within the esteemed College of Health Sciences.

It’s a dynamic position that demands a blend of leadership, strategic planning, and a genuine passion for education. I take pride in guiding our team toward excellence while fostering an environment where curiosity thrives and both students and faculty can flourish.

DMSc in Medical Education: University of Lynchburg, 2019

MBA in Higher Education Administration: University of Saint Francis, 2023

MOL in Higher Education Administration: University of Saint Francis, 2022

MS in Physician Assistant Studies: University of Saint Francis, 2017

BS in Biology: University of Saint Francis, 2014

Areas of Interest

  • Pathophysiology and Immunology
  • Medical Education
  • Higher Education Leadership
  • Teaching and Learning Strategies
  • Student Success Strategies
  • Grit, Growth Mindset, and Resilience

Content Instruction

  • Art of Medicine
  • Infectious Disease and Immunology
  • Advanced Clinical Procedures
  • Public Health
  • Critical Thinking in Medicine
  • Strategic Leadership
  • Medical Education

Selected Presentations

  • USF Teaching and Learning Services – Fort Wayne, IN (2024)
    • Fairbanks, J.R., Lloyd, C.J.  “Transformational and Transactional Leadership” 
  • USF Teaching and Learning Services – Fort Wayne, IN (2022)
    • Fairbanks, J.R., Lloyd, C.J., Lehr, A.  “Student Persistence at USF” 
  • Fort Wayne Teaching and Learning Conference – Fort Wayne, IN (2021)
    • Fairbanks, J.R., and Lloyd, C.J. “Student Remediations” 
  • USF Teaching and Learning Services – Fort Wayne, IN (2021)
    • Fairbanks, J.R., and Lloyd, C.J. “Writing Effective Multiple Choice Questions” 
  • USF Employee Development Day – Fort Wayne, IN (2021)
    • Fairbanks, J.R., and Lloyd, C.J. “Bring your class to life: Utilizing Active Learning Strategies to Increase Student Engagement and Knowledge Retention” 
  • Fort Wayne Teaching and Learning Conference – Fort Wayne, IN (2020)
    • Fairbanks, J.R., and Lloyd, C.J. “Unlocking Grit and Growth Mindset in Graduate Curriculum” 
  • PAEA Educational Forum – Washington, DC (2019)
    • Fairbanks, J.R., and Lloyd, C.J. “Unlocking Grit and Growth Mindset in the Physician Assistant Curriculum”