A Celebration of Service, Legacy, and New Beginning

On the afternoon of June 18, 2025, the Touro University California community gathered to honor a person whose roots run deep in the soil of service, education, and compassion. Grace Landel, MEd, PA-C, DFAAPA, retired after a distinguished 40+ year career that shaped not only the Physician Assistant program at TUC but also the lives of countless students, colleagues, and patients. 

The celebration began with a symbol as strong as Landel's impact—a tree, bare of leaves, waiting to be filled. Guests were invited to write messages of gratitude and admiration on individual wooden leaves, each one a testament to the lives Landel has touched. As the tree filled, so too did the room with stories, laughter, and the kind of warmth that only comes from a life well-lived in the service of others.

The event unfolded with heartfelt speeches from colleagues who have walked alongside Landel throughout the years. Dr. Tami Hendriksz, Campus Provost, CAO and Dean of the College of Osteopathic Medicine, Dr. Steve Jacobson, Vice Provost, Dean of Student Affairs, Interim Dean, College of Education & Health Sciences (CEHS), and Dr. Gayle Cummings, Public Health Program Director and Assistant Dean in the CEHS each offered reflections that painted a portrait of a mentor, a leader, and a friend. “Grace didn’t just run a program; she built a legacy. She shows all of us what it means to teach with rigor, to lead with humility, and to believe, truly believe in the potential of our students.” Dr. Hendriksz' sentiments rang true with all those in attendance.

Dr. Jim O’Connor, Founding Dean of CEHS and Director of the Center for Innovative Learning and Teaching, closed the series of speeches with a moving tribute that captured the essence of Landel’s dedication to her students and her profession. Ending with a special gift of a throw pillow from Dr. O’Connor so that she would never forget the years spent together.

One of the most touching moments came when Landel’s brothers took the stage. In a rare and tender show of sibling affection, one by one, each shared personal reflections that revealed the deep love and admiration they hold for their sister. Their words reminded everyone that Landel’s strength and compassion were forged not only in classrooms and clinics but also in the bonds of family.

To finish off the evening, Dr. Michelle Wolfe presented Landel with a special award recognizing her extraordinary contributions to Touro and the PA profession. It was a fitting tribute to a career defined by excellence, empathy, and an unshakable belief in the power of education to transform lives. “Although we will miss you dearly, you’ve left us with something enduring. A strong program with a clear sense of purpose.” Said Dr. Wolfe “What we do, how we do it, and why we do it has your fingerprints all over it. Because of your work, your mentorship, and your heart, we will continue to thrive.”

Landel will soon be trading campus life for the quiet charm of Oregon, where she plans to retire with her partner. Her legacy will continue to grow like the tree adorned with wooden leaves, rooted in the hearts of those she has inspired.

Touro University California thanks Grace Landel for her years of service, commitment to her students, and the tenacity with which she has led. May her retirement be as rich and fulfilling as the career she leaves behind.