Dr. Heggem is the Founding Director of the Rocky Mountain College DMSc Program, and knows firsthand the dire need for PAs in rural communities.  Growing up in the small town of Winifred, MT she realized how these rural populations are underserved.  Dr. Heggem attended Rocky Mountain College and received her Bachelor of Science in Biology and Environmental Science with a Chemistry Minor.  After completing her undergraduate studies, she began the Master of Physician Assistant Studies program at Rocky Mountain College.  Dr. Heggem practiced in Cardiology for several years and then chose to return to her alma mater to teach in the PA Program.  She began her teaching career at RMC as the Director of Clinical Education, and then transitioned into the Academic Coordinator.  In 2013, she became the RMC MPAS Program Director.  Passionate about education and lifelong learning, in 2018 she matriculated in the Doctor of Medical Science Program at Lynchburg University while continuing her work as the Director of the PA Program.  Dr. Heggem has practiced as a PA-C for over 15 years in Montana and presently works in the Student and Faculty Free Health Clinic at RMC.  Dr. Heggem was selected for the prestigious Billings Gazette 40 under forty award in 2017 and continues to be active volunteering in her community.  Her husband Matt Prinkki is also a professor at the college in Aeronautical Science.  They have two children and three unruly miniature schnauzers.