Faculty Spotlight – Laurie Mahar

We are proud to spotlight Laurie Mahar, Medical Assisting Instructor at Washington County Community College. With over 20 years of experience as a nurse practitioner, Laurie brings deep clinical knowledge, compassion, and a passion for teaching into the classroom. As a lifelong learner, she is dedicated to helping students build meaningful careers and brighter futures in healthcare.

 

Laurie’s Role at WCCC 

Laurie’s favorite part of teaching is helping students gain confidence as they develop real-world clinical skills. She finds it incredibly rewarding to watch students grow from beginners into capable professionals ready to work in healthcare settings.

In the classroom, Laurie emphasizes hands-on learning through a mock doctor’s office, where students practice real-life scenarios. She sets high expectations while providing steady guidance and encouragement, ensuring students feel supported every step of the way.

Having worked closely with medical assistants throughout her career, Laurie understands their essential role in patient care and office efficiency. She is passionate about preparing students to step into that role with both competence and confidence.

 

What Makes Laurie’s Program Standout

The Medical Assisting program offers a dynamic blend of classroom instruction and hands-on clinical practice. Students learn in a simulated medical environment designed to mirror real healthcare settings.

Laurie fosters a supportive, engaging atmosphere where students are encouraged to ask questions, collaborate, and learn from one another. Her teaching style focuses not only on technical skills, but also on professionalism, communication, and patient-centered care.

One of the program’s greatest strengths is the ability for students to complete their education close to home, allowing them to build careers without relocating.

 

Program Outcomes and Opportunities

The Associate of Applied Science in Medical Assisting is an accredited program that prepares students to become well-rounded healthcare professionals. Students develop competencies across three key areas: knowledge, hands-on skills, and professional behavior.

Graduates are trained to perform both administrative and clinical duties in a variety of healthcare settings, including physician’s offices, clinics, and specialty practices. Skills include preparing exam rooms, taking vital signs, scheduling patients, administering medications, and collecting specimens.

The program is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP) upon recommendation of the Medical Assisting Education Review Board (MAERB). Upon completion, graduates are eligible to sit for national certification exams such as the Certified Medical Assistant (CMA) or Registered Medical Assistant (RMA).

Students must meet rigorous standards, including maintaining at least an 80% competency level and completing a 165-hour clinical practicum, where they gain real-world experience working with patients under supervision.

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment of medical assistants is projected to grow significantly, offering strong career opportunities in the healthcare field.

Laurie’s Journey in Her Field

Laurie has spent over two decades working as a nurse practitioner, gaining extensive experience in patient care and clinical practice. Her career has given her a deep appreciation for the vital role that medical assistants and phlebotomists play in healthcare.

Her transition into teaching reflects her desire to share that knowledge and mentor the next generation of healthcare professionals.

Outside of The Classroom

Laurie can be described as compassionate and multi-passionate. Outside of teaching, she enjoys riding motorcycles, baking (especially pies), and rescuing animals.

She is deeply committed to animal welfare and currently cares for rescue dogs and a cat and has even helped care for a baby cow. Her passion for helping others extends beyond the classroom and into her everyday life.

Three Words to Describe Laurie

Patient, Kind, Dreamer.

Looking Toward the Future

Laurie is excited about growing the Medical Assisting program to its full potential. She is focused on increasing enrollment, maintaining strong graduation rates, and preparing students to make meaningful contributions to their communities.

Her goal is to empower students with the skills, confidence, and compassion needed to succeed in today’s healthcare environment.

Thank You, Laurie! 

Thank you, Laurie, for your dedication to your students and your commitment to hands-on, compassionate education. Your experience and passion are helping shape the future of healthcare in our communities.