Derm Dispatch: SDPA Launches Redesigned Diplomate Fellowship Program

At the 2025 SDPA Fall Conference, Kristen Grippe, PA-C, and Renata Block, DMSc, MMS, PA-C, discussed the evolution and impact of the Diplomate Fellowship Program, a cornerstone educational initiative of the Society of Dermatology Physician Assistants (SDPA). Grippe, who spearheaded the program’s development, reflected on its origins, growth, and the recent launch of its redesigned “2.0” version in the latest episode of Derm Dispatch.

The Diplomate Fellowship Program was first introduced in 2017 to replace an earlier distance-learning initiative that lacked standardization and user accessibility. Grippe and her team envisioned a comprehensive, structured educational platform that would serve as a consistent foundation for dermatology PAs at all career stages. Anchored by the Dermatology Essentials textbook by Jean L. Bolognia, MD, the program provided a centralized, evidence-based curriculum covering both common and rare dermatologic conditions.

However, as Grippe noted, early iterations faced challenges including varying audio quality, uneven presentation styles, and the natural evolution of medical knowledge. With the expansion of SDPA’s full-time staff and technological resources, these limitations presented an opportunity for innovation. The Diplomate Fellowship 2.0 program now features professionally recorded lectures, interactive modules, embedded quizzes, and image-based learning tools, all delivered through a modern, user-friendly online platform. The redesign emphasizes not only the depth of content but also the learner’s experience and engagement.

Grippe highlighted that the updated program provides flexibility and accessibility for busy dermatology PAs, allowing them to learn at their own pace while reinforcing key clinical principles through interactive repetition. Importantly, the fellowship offers a standardized educational foundation in a field where training and mentorship experiences can vary widely. For existing SDPS Diplomate Fellows, Grippe encouraged revisiting the new program to refresh knowledge and adapt to current clinical standards. She emphasized that repetition and interactive learning significantly enhance long-term retention and clinical confidence.

Reflecting on nearly 2 decades of leadership within the SDPA, Grippe credited the organization’s growth and volunteer collaboration for the program’s success. Her enduring passion for dermatologic education continues to drive innovation in PA training, ensuring that the Diplomate Fellowship remains the SDPA’s “crown jewel” and a benchmark for excellence in dermatology education.