Our featured McQueary College of Health and Human Services (MCHHS) faculty members are Crystal Powell, assistant professor in the School of Health Care Professions, and Stacy Johnson, clinical instructor in the School of Mental Health and Behavioral Sciences.
Let’s find out more about them.
Where are you originally from?
Powell: Savannah, Missouri.
Johnson: I’m originally from Mountain Home, Arkansas, a charming town about a two-hour drive from Springfield.
What brought you to Missouri State University and how long have you been here?
Powell: I graduated from Missouri State’s physician assistant (PA) program in 2005 and practiced clinically in the Springfield area for many years. During that time, I served as a clinical preceptor for PA students, which sparked my interest in teaching. That spark eventually led me back to Missouri State, where I now have the privilege of teaching in the same program that shaped my career. Since joining the physician assistant studies (PAS) faculty in 2023, I’ve truly enjoyed my time here — it feels like coming home!
Johnson: This is my second year as a faculty member at Missouri State. Joining Missouri State has been a dream of mine because I love mentoring students and helping them understand the transformative impact social workers can have in the field.
What’s your favorite part about working at Missouri State so far?
Powell: My favorite part has been the students. Their energy and passion for learning is truly inspiring — and contagious! They make every day unique and fulfilling and I feel incredibly fortunate to work with such a remarkable group of individuals.
Johnson: What I enjoy most about working at Missouri State is the opportunity to collaborate with professionals from diverse disciplines. The university fosters a supportive culture that emphasizes a healthy work-life balance, which I truly value.
What’s your educational background?
Powell: I received my Master of Science in Physician Assistant Studies from Missouri State in 2005 and my Bachelor of Science in Exercise Science from Brigham Young University in 2002. in 2002.
Johnson: I’m proud to be an alum of Missouri State, where I earned both my undergraduate and graduate degrees in social work.
Why did you choose your career path?
Powell: I became a PA because of my love of science, my love of people and my desire to help others. A PA career allowed me to combine all these interests, and I truly enjoyed my time in clinical practice. Now that I’m here at Missouri State, I have the privilege of guiding PA students as they grow into compassionate and skilled professionals — an experience that’s just as rewarding.
Johnson: I chose social work because I saw first-hand the gaps individuals faced in receiving health services and support. My grandmother’s experiences particularly shaped my perspective, as I witnessed the challenges she faced in accessing the care she needed. Seeing her struggle, and the impact it had on our family, reinforced my belief in the need for better advocacy, support systems and access to services. I’ve always been intrinsically motivated to help people, but I also recognize that by helping others, I find a sense of purpose in myself. Social work allows me to bridge those gaps while fulfilling my own drive to make a meaningful difference.
Where did you work prior to Missouri State?
Powell: Before joining Missouri State, I spent about one and a half years working with Drury University’s PA program. Prior to Drury, I practiced clinically in pediatrics and family medicine for about 17 years.
Johnson: I bring an eclectic professional background to my role, having worked in the medical field, as a therapist specializing in school-aged children and most recently, as a school social worker.
What do you do in your role at the university?
Powell: I’m an instructor in a variety of PAS courses including clinical assessment, clinical medicine, clinical problem solving and procedures. I also serve as the director of assessment for our program.
Johnson: I serve as an instructor for both the Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) and Master of Social Work programs. I also work as an advisor and am the faculty advisor for the BSW Social Work Club.
What’s your favorite thing about the winter season?
Powell: I’m not a huge fan of winter, so to me, the best part of this season is knowing that spring is just around the corner.
Johnson: While I typically prefer spring and summer, I treasure the magic of the winter season, especially with my young children. Watching their excitement makes the season truly special. I also enjoy baking, and winter always feels like the perfect time to whip up something delicious.