Kristi Gidley, PA-C, MSHA, executive administrator for the Department of Otolaryngology, has recently been appointed as the 2021-2023 president of the Society of Physician Assistants in Otorhinolaryngology-Head & Neck Surgery (SPAO-HNS).

Gidley joined the Department of Otolaryngology in 2010 as a physician assistant and now serves as the executive administrator. She received her undergraduate degree from Emory University and graduated from the UAB Surgical Physician Assistant Program in 1999. In 2017, Gidley received her master’s degree in Health Administration from the UAB School of Health Related Professions. She has more than 20 years of experience as a surgical physician assistant. She continues to maintain a clinical head and neck oncology practice while serving as executive administrator.

“I am honored to assume the role of President for SPAO-HNS and to serve the Board of Directors and our members. I consider it a privilege to serve alongside so many talented people,” said Gidley.

Gidley served as director at large and liaison to the American Academy of Otolaryngology-Head & Neck Surgery Foundation (AAO-NHSF) and the American Academy of Physician Assistants (AAPA) from 2016 to 2020.

SPAO-HNS is the official specialty organization for Physician Assistants in ENT and is recognized by AAPA and AAO-HNS.

The goal of SPAO-HNS is to promote the growth and development of Physician Assistants in the ENT field.