Back to News 
MILLIGAN, Tenn. (Aug. 25, 2023) – Dr. Ron Blackmore and Dr. Shane Smith with Milligan University’s Master of Physician Assistant Studies program were recognized by The Business Journal as “2023 Healthcare Heroes” for their hard work, sacrifice and commitment to providing excellent healthcare to the Appalachian Highlands.
“This special distinction highlights the excellence Ron and Shane bring to their work caring for patients and training the next generation of healthcare heroes here at Milligan,” said Milligan President Dr. Bill Greer. “Throughout their careers, they have gone above and beyond the call of duty earning admiration from their colleagues, the communities they care for, and the individuals whose lives they improve.”
Ron Blackmore
Blackmore serves as the medical director for Milligan’s PA program, in addition to serving as a family physician at Blue Ridge Family Medicine for the past 24 years. In his work, he is passionate about meeting the physical, emotional and spiritual needs of his patients.
Blackmore served as chairman of the board of State of Franklin Healthcare Associates in Johnson City for over a decade, contributing to its growth, innovation and prosperity. He serves as a student sponsor for Christian Medical and Dental Associations at Milligan and as a preceptor for medical students at East Tennessee State University. He is also an active member at First Christian Church in Johnson City serving as an elder and teacher. In addition, he has served on numerous international mission trips.
A 1988 Milligan alumnus, Blackmore received his Doctor of Medicine from the University of Missouri Columbia School of Medicine. He served nine years in the United States Air Force and spent his first two years of medical practice in Turkey.
Shane Smith
Smith serves as assistant professor of physician assistant studies at Milligan and works in the Ballad Health system as a trauma surgery, critical care and acute care surgery physician assistant. Smith previously worked as a pharmacy tech, medic and flight medic in the United States Army. He is a member of the American Academy of Physician Associates, the Tennessee Academy of Physician Assistants and the Society of Emergency Medicine Physician Assistants.
At Milligan, Smith impacts PA students at every stage in their academic journey. He provides didactic instruction for each cohort of PA students, serves as the program’s admissions coordinator, provides mentoring as a student advisor, and oversees the new student application and interview process.
In the community, Smith coordinates service projects through his church and other community organizations. He provides healthcare services at Providence Medical Clinic, a free clinic in Kingsport. Many Milligan PA students have accompanied him, offering their services and gaining valuable clinical experiences.
Smith earned his Doctor of Medical Science from the University of Lynchburg and attended PA school at Springfield College in Springfield, Massachusetts.
To read the full list of Healthcare Heroes, click here.