Program Manager, Physician Assistant Program

School of Health Professions

Lupe earned her Bachelor of Science in Public Administration with an emphasis in Health and Human Services Administration, followed by a Master of Public Health in Public Health Policy and Management from the University of Arizona Mel and Enid Zuckerman College of Public Health. She completed both degrees while working full-time at the University of Arizona College of Medicine – Tucson (COM-T), where she built a distinguished 20-year career.

During her tenure at COM-T, Lupe held several key positions, most notably serving as Special Assistant to the Deans. Her dedication and impact were recognized in 2018 when she received the Lura Hanekamp Dedicated Staff Award for Excellence—an honor that reflects her deep commitment to supporting students, faculty, and staff. In 2014, she joined the Association of American Medical Colleges (AAMC) Dean’s Assistant Group, contributing to several subcommittees and representing the Western region for multiple years.

In October 2022, Lupe was appointed Assistant Director of Operations at University of Arizona Health Sciences. In this role, she supported the development of the developing international medical education program and later the launch of the College of Health Sciences. She provided strategic operational support to senior leadership, managed space utilization, and contributed to the development and review of contracts, legal agreements, and clinical affiliation partnerships. She also worked collaboratively across key operational areas, including human resources, finance, information technology, and general administration.

As of July 2025, Lupe serves as Program Manager for the University of Arizona’s emerging Physician Assistant Program. In this role, she oversees the coordination of academic and administrative functions that support program success, facilitate student progression, and ensure compliance with accreditation and institutional standards.