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Leadership

leadership group 1

Theresa Helsel, PA-C

President

Theresa Helsel, PA-C

President
Theresa earned her Bachelor’s degree in Exercise and Sport Science from Brigham Young University,
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Aaron Sookhoo, PA-C

President-Elect

Aaron Sookhoo, PA-C

President-Elect
Aaron Alexander Sookhoo, PA-C a Tampa Bay native, is a board-certified Physician Assistant.
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SCOTT FREEMAN, PA-C

Immediate Past President

SCOTT FREEMAN, PA-C

Immediate Past President
Mr. Freeman completed his education and has been fully credentialed since 1999.
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Aaron Kent, PA-C

Vice President

Aaron Kent, PA-C

Vice President
Aaron Kent, PA-C is a native Floridian and has been practicing dermatology since 2022. After completing his bachelor’s degree at Florida Atlantic University,
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Aditi Mas, PA-C

Treasurer

Aditi Mas, PA-C

Treasurer
Aditi Mas, PA-C graduated from the University of South Florida with a Bachelor’s degree in Anthropology in 2017.
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Kristine Hertzog, PA-C

Secretary

Kristine Hertzog

Secretary
Born in Oviedo, Kristine Hertzog is a Florida Native. After graduating University of Florida...
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Demi Soulet, PA-C

Director at Large

Demi Soulet, PA-C

Director at Large
Demi graduated magna cum laude from Florida State University with a Bachelor of Science in exercise science after completing an accelerated STEM program ..
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Shamita Patel, PA-C

Director at Large

Shamita Patel, PA-C

Director at Large
Shamita Patel is a certified Physician Assistant who has specialized in dermatology for almost a decade.
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Courtney O'Loughlin,
PA-C

Director at Large

Courtney O'Loughlin

Director at Large
Courtney O'Loughlin is a board-certified Physician Assistant practicing medical...
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Mackenzie Olson, PA-C

Director at Large

Mackenzie Olson, PA-C

Director at Large
Mackenzie Olson, PA-C graduated summa cum laude with her Bachelor of Science degree from the University of Florida...
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Nikki Conrad PA-C

Director at Large

Nikki Conrad PA-C

Director at Large
Nikki Conrad PA-C is a board-certified physician assistant specializing in medical, cosmetic, and surgical dermatology...
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Kelley McIlvaine, PA

Director at Large

Kelley McIlvaine PA

Director at Large
Kelley McIlvaine has served as a Dermatology PA for the past 10 years, eight of which were in her home state of Florida....
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Megan Thomas, PA-C

Director of Operations

Megan Thomas, PA-C

Director of Operations
After completing her bachelor’s degree at the University of Florida, Megan attended the PA program at Nova Southeastern University
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Francine Phillips, PA-C

Director at Large

Francine Phillips, PA-C

Director at Large
Francine Phillips is a native Floridian and graduated from A.T. Still University with her Masters in Physician Assistant studies..
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Amy Bayon, PA-C

Director at Large

Amy Bayon, PA-C

Director at Large
Amy Bayon, MPAS, PA-C graduated from the University of South Florida with honors and received her Bachelor’s in Health Sciences with concentrations in biological and social-behavioral sciences.
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Staff and Affiliates

Megan Thomas, PA-C

Executive Director

Megan Thomas, PA-C

Executive Director
After completing her bachelor’s degree at the University of Florida, Megan attended the PA program at Nova Southeastern University
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Heather Gates,
PA-C, DFAAPA

Congress Director/Director of Industry Relations

Heather Gates,
PA-C, DFAAPA

Congress Director/Director of Industry Relations
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Jake Jalbert

Social Media Manager

Jake Jalbert

Social Media Manager
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Ben Sosna, PA-C Emeritus

Administrative Assistant

Ben Sosna, PA-C Emeritus

Administrative Assistant
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Maria Cabasos

APRN Liaison

Tiffany Trent

APRN Liaison

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Theresa Helsel, PA-C

President

Theresa is excited to be serving as president of the FSDPA. She earned a Bachelor’s degree in Exercise and Sport Science from Brigham Young University, a Master’s degree in Exercise and Sport Science from the University of Florida, and a MPAS from Nova Southeastern University in 2013. Theresa started her career in Dermatology and loves the variety found within our specialty. She works at Sun State Dermatology in Maitland, Fl and is trained in medical, surgical and cosmetic dermatology. Theresa has a particular interest in treating pediatric and surgical patients as well as treating patients with difficult inflammatory conditions. She is an SDPA Diplomate Fellow, has served on the Medical Staff at Camp Discovery and has presented at multiple conferences. Theresa is native Floridian and an avid endurance athlete having completed three full Ironman triathlons and eleven Boston Marathons.

Aaron Sookhoo, PA-C

President-Elect
Aaron Alexander Sookhoo, PA-C a Tampa Bay native, is a board-certified Physician Assistant. Aaron received his Bachelor of Science Degree with a focus on Biomedical Sciences and a minor in Public Health from the University of South Florida in May 2012. Aaron then attended Wake Forest University School of Medicine’s Physician Assistant Program and graduated with a Masters of Medical Science degree in May 2015. After graduating from Wake Forest University, Aaron obtained extensive clinical and surgical experience in general orthopedic surgery and orthopedic spine surgery in the Tampa area. Aaron has completed a Dermatological and Cosmetic Surgery externship with a Mohs Surgeon and Dermatopathologist in Winston-Salem, NC. He is Board Certified by the National Commission on Certification of Physician Assistants (NCCPA). He is a member of the Florida Academy of Physician Assistants (FAPA), the American Academy of Physician Assistants (AAPA), and the Florida Society of Dermatology Physician Assistants (FSDPA). While at Wake Forest University, Aaron was a member of the Katherine Anderson Society of the Student Academy of the American Academy of Physician Assistants (SAAAPA). In his spare time, Aaron enjoys spending time with his family and traveling. He has a twin brother who is also in the medical field. He has an older sister who works as a real estate advisor/consultant. Aaron and his brother grew up playing competitive soccer both domestically and internationally. Aaron enjoys lecturing and his involvement with several major physician assistant universities/programs. He is also a mentor for the Leroy Selmon Learning USF Student-Athlete Mentorship Program.

SCOTT FREEMAN, PA-C

Immediate Past President
Mr. Freeman completed his education and has been fully credentialed since 1999. He began his career as a Physician Assistant (PA) in Emergency Medicine and transitioned to the specialty of Dermatology in 2007 due in part from his interest in visual pathology and surgical procedure. Mr. Freeman enjoys treating psoriasis, acne, skin cancers and other complex skin disease. Although he has had experience with laser and cosmetic dermatology, it is the medical and surgical aspects of the profession that interest him most. Professionally, Mr. Freeman holds “Diplomate” status with the Society of Dermatology Physician Assistants. This identifies those Physician Assistants who have obtained advanced specialty education within the field of Dermatology. He also continues to affiliate with other state and national professional groups as well as educate his peers at both the local and national levels. Mr. Freeman is a native Floridian who was born and raised in the St. Petersburg area. He understands the active Florida lifestyle that we all enjoy here, so instead of asking patients to avoid the sun, he promotes safe sun exposure practices. He currently resides in Pinellas County with his wonderful wife, Jennifer, and their two children.

Aaron Kent, PA-C

Vice President

“Aaron Kent, PA-C, is a native Floridian who has practiced dermatology since 2022. He earned his bachelor’s degree from Florida Atlantic University before completing the Physician Assistant Program at Nova Southeastern University, where he completed two dermatology clinical rotations. After graduating in 2022, Aaron joined Advanced Dermatology and Cosmetic Surgery in Port St. Lucie, Florida, where he continues to provide comprehensive dermatologic care.

Aaron has a special interest in treating complex inflammatory skin diseases, including psoriasis, atopic dermatitis, hidradenitis suppurativa, chronic spontaneous urticaria, alopecia, and acne, as well as the diagnosis and management of skin cancers. He is experienced in the use of biologic therapies and other advanced treatment regimens and performs surgical excisions and closures for a variety of skin cancers.

Aaron has been actively involved with the Florida Society of Dermatology Physician Assistants (FSDPA), serving as a student volunteer, Director at Large, Secretary, and now Vice President. He is a Diplomate Fellow of the Society of Dermatology Physician Assistants (SDPA) and is also a member of the American Academy of Physician Associates (AAPA) and the Florida Academy of Physician Assistants (FAPA).

Aaron is passionate about improving access to dermatologic care, advancing patient education, and supporting initiatives that promote skin health throughout the community. Outside of work, Aaron enjoys surfing, lobster diving, paddleboarding, boating, and exploring Florida’s state parks while trying to remember to apply sunscreen regularly.”

Aditi Mas, PA-C

Treasurer

Aditi is a dermatology physician assistant with five years of experience, specializing in medical dermatology with additional expertise in cosmetic treatments. She earned her Bachelor of Arts in Anthropology from the University of South Florida in 2017 and her Master of Physician Assistant Studies from the University of Lynchburg in 2020.

After beginning her career in cosmetic medicine, Aditi transitioned into dermatology, where she found her passion for treating chronic skin conditions that have a meaningful impact on patients’ quality of life. She has a special interest in caring for patients with acne, atopic dermatitis, and psoriasis, and enjoys helping patients regain confidence through individualized, evidence-based treatment plans. Her practice also includes cosmetic procedures, allowing her to combine medical expertise with aesthetic care.

Aditi is committed to lifelong learning and regularly attends dermatology conferences to stay current with advances in the field. She values patient education, developing practical treatment plans, and building long-term relationships with her patients.

Outside of work, Aditi enjoys spending time with her family, traveling, reading, and is a lifelong Harry Potter fan.

Kristine Hertzog, PA-C

Secretary
Born in Oviedo, Kristine Hertzog is a Florida Native. After graduating from the University of Florida with a BS in Psychology, she was fortunate enough to be recommended to a position as a Medical Assistant at Dermatology Associates in Gainesville, thus beginning a passion for skin that has spanned over 20 years. Returning to the University of Florida to obtain her MS in PA studies, she graduated in 2008 and accepted a position with a (then) small, new practice in Tampa called Suncoast Skin Solutions, where she earned medical, cosmetic, and surgical dermatology. Additionally, she was able to precept PA students from UF for the next six years. Marrying in 2012, Kristine and her husband, Justin, pursued his career and moved to Brevard County in 2014, where she joined an office called Brevard Skin and Cancer Center. She continued to practice dermatology there for 7 years, during which time she started the NP/PA Dermatology Club in Brevard County. Then in 2022, she took a leap and joined a pharmaceutical company as a clinical liaison for Bristol Myers Squibb. This new career allowed her to connect with many NPs and PAs across Florida.
 
Returning to her first love, dermatology clinic, Kristine is currently working as a Physician Associate with Brevard Medical Dermatology. She lives in Viera, FL with her husband, their two boys and their 2 mini-Labradoodles. She enjoys running, reading, aerial yoga, and cooking. Kristine has continued her interest in elevating her profession and currently serves as Secretary on the Board for the Florida Society of Dermatology PAs.
 

Born in Oviedo, Kristine Hertzog is a Florida Native. After graduating University of Florida with a BS in Psychology, she was fortunate enough to be recommended to a position as a Medical Assistant at Dermatology Associates in Gainesville, thus beginning a passion for skin that has spanned over 20 years. Returning to University of Florida to obtain her MS in PA studies, she graduated in 2008 and accepted a position with a (then) small, new practice in Tampa called Suncoast Skin Solutions, where she learned medical, cosmetic, and surgical dermatology. Additionally, she was able to precept PA students from UF for the next six years.

Marrying in 2012, Kristine and her husband, Justin, pursued his career and moved to Brevard County in 2014, where she joined an office called Brevard Skin and Cancer Center. She continued to practice dermatology there for 7 years, during which time she started the NP/PA Dermatology Club in Brevard County. Then in 2022, she took a leap and joined a pharmaceutical company as a clinical liaison for Bristol Myers Squibb. This new career allowed her to connect with many NPs and PAs across Florida.

Returning to her first love, dermatology clinic, Kristine is currently working as a Physician Associate with Brevard Medical Dermatology. She lives in Viera, FL with her husband, their two boys and their mini Labradoodle. She enjoys running, reading and cooking. Kristine has continued her interest in elevating her profession. She currently serves on the Board for Sunrise NPPA Derm and is excited for her new role as Director at Large for the Florida Society of Dermatology PAs.

Demi Soulet, PA-C

Director at Large

Demi Soulet, PA-C is a board-certified Physician Assistant with over eight years of experience practicing medical, surgical, and cosmetic dermatology. Demi graduated magna cum laude from Florida State University with a Bachelor of Science in Exercise Science after completing an accelerated STEM program through the University of Central Florida’s College of Biomedical Sciences. She went on to earn her Master of Physician Assistant Studies from Florida International University, graduating in the top 10% of her class. Demi began her dermatology career as a medical assistant and has since practiced as a PA in Southwest Florida, Orlando, and Daytona Beach. She brings extensive clinical expertise along with advanced training in lasers and cosmetic dermatology, where she is passionate about helping patients achieve natural-looking, confidence-boosting results through personalized care. In addition to her clinical work, Demi maintains an active professional presence on Instagram, where she shares educational content and insights into dermatologic care.

Shamita Patel, PA-C

Director at Large

Shamita Patel is a certified Physician Assistant who has specialized in dermatology for almost a decade. A Florida native, Shamita graduated from the University of Florida with a Bachelor of Science in Nutritional Sciences.

Thereafter, she received her Physician Assistant training and a Master of Clinical Medical Science from Barry University in Miami Shores, Florida, and completed dermatology externships in Washington, D.C., and Miami Beach, Florida.

Shamita joined the FSDPA directors with interests in CME and strengthening our dermatology PA community. She has a passion for education, social support, and cultivating our FSDPA community. She strives to educate her patients and provide individualized care. Shamita is also an active member of the Society of Dermatology Physician Assistants.

She attends local and national meetings to stay current in her field. Her interests include general, surgical, pediatric, and cosmetic dermatology. With a special focus on aesthetics, she has participated in several private trainings at a national and international level.

In her free time, she enjoys spending time with her family, traveling, and exploring different cuisines.

Courtney O'Loughlin, PA-C

Director at Large

Courtney is a board-certified Physician Assistant practicing medical and surgical dermatology in the Villages. She earned her Bachelor of Science in Biology from the University of Central Florida and her Master of Medical Science in Physician Assistant Studies from Nova Southeastern University.

Courtney is a Diplomate-Fellow of the Society of Dermatology Physician Assistants (SDPA) and an active member of both the Florida Society of Dermatology Physician Assistants (FSDPA) and the American Academy of Physician Assistants (AAPA).

She is passionate about skin cancer prevention, early detection, and treatment. Known for her compassionate, evidence-based approach, Courtney values building long-term relationships with her patients and delivering high-quality, personalized care.

Outside of her clinical and professional commitments, Courtney enjoys spending time with her husband, Chase, and their German Shepherd mix, Griffin. She loves staying active, reading, traveling, and spending time on the water with friends and family.

Mackenzie Olson, PA-C

Director at Large

Mackenzie Olson, PA-C graduated summa cum laude with her Bachelor of Science degree from the University of Florida. After obtaining her undergraduate degree, she gained clinical experience working as a medical assistant in dermatology, which sparked her passion for the field. She attended the University of South Florida’s Physician Assistant program and graduated in 2023. Upon graduation, she was inducted into the Pi Alpha Honors Society and began working as a Dermatology PA.

Mackenzie has returned to Gainesville, FL to work in the Department of Dermatology at her alma mater, the University of Florida. She has been attending the Riptide and New Wave conferences since graduating from PA school, and is very excited to continue her involvement with the FSDPA. 

Nikki Conrad PA-C

Director at Large

Nikki Conrad PA-C is a board-certified physician assistant specializing in medical, cosmetic, and surgical dermatology with experience caring for patients in Central Florida since 2016. She earned her Bachelor’s Degree in Clinical Health Sciences from the University of Central Florida and her Master’s in Physician Assistant Studies from Stony Brook University in New York. She currently practices at the Art of Dermatology in Winter Park, Florida, where she focuses on evidence-based, comprehensive dermatologic care, including inflammatory skin diseases, skin cancer management, and cosmetic injectables. As a Miami, Florida native, she is especially passionate about sun safety education and early skin cancer detection using dermoscopy. Nikki is deeply committed to continuing education, professional growth, and collaboration through active involvement in both state and national dermatology organizations.

Kelley McIlvaine PA-C

Director at Large
Kelley has served as a Dermatology PA for the past 10 years, eight of which were in her home state of Florida. She grew up in Tampa and then attended the University of Virginia. After graduation she worked for several nonprofits including Teach For America, Akilah Institute for Women in Rwanda, and the Akola Project in Uganda. Following those experiences she was awarded a Dean’s Scholarship to attend the University of Texas Southwestern, where she graduated with a Masters in Physician Assistant Studies with highest honors. She is currently a member of the Junior League of Tampa, serves on the Alumni Board of the Academy of the Holy Names, is a Girlscout troop leader, and is a member of the UVA Jefferson Scholars Committee. When she’s not practicing dermatology, Kelley enjoys spending time with her husband Andy, three kids, Lucy, Luke and Maisy and her Goldendoodle Henry. She also enjoys running half marathons, pilates, mahjong, reading a good book, traveling and is yoga instructor certified.

Megan Thomas, PA-C

Executive Director

After completing her bachelor’s degree at the University of Florida, Megan attended the PA program at Nova Southeastern University and graduated with honors in 2011. After one year of practicing in the primary care setting, Megan trained in dermatology and has been practicing in the field ever since. She is passionate about both medical and cosmetic dermatology. Megan currently lives in Tampa with her family and practices at South Tampa Dermatology.

Megan has been involved with the FSDPA since 2012 and served on the board of directors from 2016 to 2024. She is proud to have created and chaired the Community Outreach Scholarship program and served as President from 2020-2022. Megan is honored to continue to support the FSDPA in her role as Executive Director.

Amy Bayon, PA-C

Director at Large

Amy Bayon, MPAS, PA-C graduated from the University of South Florida with honors and received her Bachelor’s in Health Sciences with concentrations in biological and social-behavioral sciences. She then earned her Master’s in Physician Associate Medicine at Keiser University, Fort Lauderdale, Florida.

Amy specializes in medical, surgical and aesthetic dermatology. Amy has a particular interest in the treatment of acne, psoriasis and atopic dermatitis, as well as cosmetic treatments such as neurotoxin and dermal fillers. She is passionate about helping her patients feel comfortable and confident in their skin. Passionate about PA education, Amy precepts for a local PA program, is part of the steering committee for PA/NP Emerge, and a fellow member of the SDPA. Amy has been active with the FSDPA ever since the beginning of her career in dermatology, attending all conference meetings and volunteering with the board prior to taking an official leadership role. 

Heather Gates, PA-C, DFAAPA

Congress Director/Director of Industry Relations

Heather serves as Congress Director and Director of Industry Relations for the Florida Society of Dermatology PAs. In these roles she leads the planning and execution of the Society’s signature conferences and initiatives including New Wave and Riptide, and builds the industry partnerships that sustain FSDPA’s educational mission.

As a board-certified PA specializing in dermatology since 2011, Heather practices at The Dermatology Institute & Skin Cancer Center in The Villages, Florida, where she provides medical, surgical, and cosmetic dermatology care with a focus on skin cancer and chronic inflammatory skin disease. She is a Distinguished Fellow of the AAPA, a Diplomate Fellow of the SDPA, and Past President of the FSDPA.

Heather is also President of Gateway Consulting & Management, a CME and conference management firm specializing in dermatology education. She brings that operational and logistical expertise to FSDPA, where her work connecting clinicians, faculty, and industry partners aims to strengthen the programming FSDPA delivers to dermatology PAs across Florida and beyond.

Jake Jalbert

Social Media Manager

Jake is an award-winning filmmaker, cinematographer, and digital marketing professional with more than a decade of experience creating compelling visual content. As the Social Media Marketing Manager for the Florida Society of Dermatology Physician Associates (FSDPA), he leads the organization’s social media strategy and produces all video content for its conferences, educational programs, podcasts, and digital initiatives. His work focuses on transforming complex medical education into engaging, high-quality content that connects with healthcare professionals across multiple platforms. Through his production company, Jake has worked with national brands, healthcare organizations, professional athletes, and feature films, bringing cinematic storytelling and strategic marketing together to expand audience reach and engagement.

Ben Sosna, PA-C Emeritus

Administrative Assistant

Ben has been a PA for over 32 years, having worked in Urology/Urogynecology for 13 years before transitioning to a Dermatology Medical Science Liaison position in the pharmaceutical industry for the next 17 years.  In the latter position, he did business with members of the FSDPA leadership team and has been an Associate Member of the FSDPA since 2014.  Ben retired at the end of 2023 and did some volunteer work for the FSDPA before coming on board as our Administrative Assistant, reporting directly to our Executive Director.  When he’s not doing something in support of the FSDPA, he enjoys spending time with his wife Rhonda and their daughter & son-in-law (Janine & Bryan).  He and his family like to travel, exercise, hike, attend film/live theater events and they volunteer some time working for a local theater near their home in Florida.  Ben and Rhonda divide their time between 2 homes – one in Lake Worth Beach, FL and the other in White Plains, NY.  

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