If these walls could talk, they would tell you of the historic moments here at Missouri State University during the COVID-19 pandemic. 

A time capsule was sealed within the walls of Ann Kempeter Health Sciences Hall, which will not be opened until March 13, 2070. 

Second-year physician assistant (PA) student Munia Mustafa represented those in the medical field and in her program by contributing items from her class to the time capsule. 

Recognition for going above and beyond 

Mustafa’s impressive contributions caught the eye of History Club co-founder Cole Howerton.  

Howerton asked Mustafa to be the keynote speaker alongside President Clif Smart and himself at the Jan. 31 sealing ceremony. 

“I not only wanted to represent my own life, but also my classmates and those in my chosen profession. I wanted to highlight who I am, who we are and what we can do for the community,” Mustafa said. “As a first-generation American, minority and a future health care provider, it is my duty to advocate for diversity and exhibit compassion.” 

Hope for the next generation 

While speaking at the sealing ceremony, Mustafa expressed how the time capsule “… symbolizes hope.” 

Items donated by Mustafa include: 

• A personal letter she wrote. 
• COVID-19 vaccination pin from Magers Health and Wellness Center. 
• Original invitation from the 2022 White Coat Ceremony with signatures from the entire PA class. 

• Original program with recipient names from the 2022 White Coat Ceremony. 
• 16 GB flash drive containing digital pictures of the MSU PA Class of 2022 and promotional videos. 

Mustafa looks forward to attending the unsealing of the time capsule, or the next of kin in her honor. 

Explore the MSU PA program

Cassidy McCandless, first year physician assistant (PA) and member of the MSU physician assistant studies class of 2022, has accepted the position of student-member-at-large on the Physician Assistant Education Association (PAEA) Board of Directors.

As the student-member-at-large, she will represent PA students nationwide in quarterly meetings. Cassidy was selected for this position from a national pool of accomplished PA students.

“I’m so excited for this opportunity to represent my fellow students nationwide and to learn from leaders in the PA profession about ways our profession can continue to grow,” McCandless said.

McCandless will work with the board on facilitating student participation in PAEA projects. She will assist with strategic planning, serve as liaison to the Future Educator Development Steering Committee and take on other duties assigned by the board.

She will begin her two-year term on the board Jan. 1, 2022.