Lock Haven Graduate Student Receives C. Michael Steadman Jr. Memorial Physician Assistant Scholarship

The C. Michael Steadman Jr. Memorial Physician Assistant Scholarship is awarded annually to a Lock Haven health science student that best represents the leadership qualities of 1991 Lock Haven University graduate Charles Michael Steadman Jr.

Steadman served six years in the Pennsylvania Army National Guard and was the medic for the Scout Platoon of the 101st Airborne Division at Fort Campbell. A graduate of the Air Assault School and The Combat Medic School at Fort Sam Houston in San Antonio, Steadman was awarded the Army Achievement Commendation Medal for saving soldiers’ lives during time stationed in Puerto Rico shortly before his tragic death in an automobile accident in 1993.

Anthony Tavella, of Lehighton, is the recipient of the scholarship for the 2022-23 academic year. He is a 2022 summa cum laude graduate of Lock Haven’s 4+2 physician assistant program and in August, began his didactic year of graduate studies in the master of health science physician assistant studies program.

“I’d like to congratulate Anthony on receiving the C. Michael Steadman Scholarship,” said Bashar W. Hanna, president. “I’m proud of all he has accomplished and excited for the great things he will achieve upon entering the healthcare workforce.”

Originally drawn to Lock Haven by the strength of its health science program, Tavella grew to enjoy giving back during his undergraduate studies through extra-curricular involvement with the student food pantry, the Haven Cupboard, as well as the Student Success Center.

Tavella said other members of The Haven family inspired him by the ways in which they gave back to him during his undergraduate studies, including countless faculty and staff who he credits with facilitating much of the success he experienced on his way to earning a bachelor’s degree with a 3.99 GPA.

“Anthony truly sets the benchmark for undergraduate education in this field and epitomizes the type of student we are proud to graduate from this institution,” said Dr. Steve Streator, associate professor of health science.

”This scholarship also plays a critical role in impacting both my academic and professional goals,” Tavella said. “Not only because of the financial assistance it provides, but also by inspiring me to work harder out of respect and appreciation for the donors and faculty who believed in me enough to award the scholarship.”

“I genuinely cannot thank Chris Steadman (C. Michael’s brother), the Steadman family, and the entire scholarship committee enough for putting their faith in me,” Tavella said. “Their generosity keeps me determined to strive for greatness and to continue making the most of my time here at The Haven.”

Tavella aspires to become a physician assistant in a primary care setting. After gaining on-the-job experience, he also has his sights set on becoming a graduate-level educator.

He encourages prospective students interested in a career as a physician assistant to consider Lock Haven, a Commonwealth University, for its strong community and outstanding faculty.

“Lock Haven’s health science program is unique in that it also excels at teaching students the value of becoming a social and cultural leader as we strive for careers where we can provide equal care and better health outcomes for all our patients,” Tavella said.

“You truly are not just a number at Lock Haven, and you can get very involved and leave a lasting impact on this campus unlike any other school,” he added.