Alumni Spotlight: AA Grad Helps Change State Law

Koty Price, South University Anesthesiologist Assistant Grad

Like many of our alumni, South University, Savannah 2014 Master of Medical Science in Anesthesia Science graduate Stephen “Koty” Price has become a leader and strong advocate for his field. In addition to practicing as a Certified Anesthesiologist Assistant (CAA), Koty recently helped lead an important update to South Carolina law.

Leading Change in South Carolina

In 2014, Koty became the founder and president of the South Carolina Academy of Anesthesiologist Assistants (SCAAA). In that role, Koty put in over a decade leading a movement to change the rules of CAA practice. In 2025, his hard work paid off.

Previously, CAAs in South Carolina practiced with a ratio of one supervising physician anesthesiologist to two CAAs. However, in every other state where CAAs practice, an anesthesiologist can supervise up to four CAAs. This aligns with recommendations from the U.S. Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services. 

As president of SCAAA, Koty led the charge for the South Carolina House Bill 3996/ Senate Bill 236 to switch to the standard 1:4 supervision ratio. In 2025, Governor Henry McMaster signed this bill into law. Thanks in part to Koty, more CAAs can now practice and provide care across South Carolina.

Studying Anesthesia Science at South University, Savannah

For Koty, earning his Anesthesia Science degree at South University equipped him with the technical skills, knowledge, and confidence to grow his career. He chose the university because of the strong reputation of our Anesthesiologist Assistant program and the welcoming atmosphere on campus.

His time at South University also set the stage for his future leadership and advocacy skills. As a student, Koty joined the Georgia Academy of Anesthesiologist Assistants. He was president of the South University AA class of 2014. He was also president of the American Academy of Anesthesiologist Assistants (AAAA) student component. (He’s remained active in the AAAA ever since and served on their Board of Directors from 2024-2026.)

“I owe my entire career to most of the South University faculty and staff,” Koty says.

A Fulfilling Career as a CAA

Shortly after graduating, Koty began working as a Certified Anesthesiologist Assistant at Grand Strand Medical Center in South Carolina. He is still with the company as part of TeamHealth Anesthesia. He practices anesthesia at an adult level I trauma center and a pediatric level II center for a wide variety of operations. In 2026, he joined the TeamHealth Anesthesia Management and Leadership Committee. He also serves as a Student Clinical Coordinator and Pharmacy Liaison.

Beyond the American Academy of Anesthesiologist Assistants and the South Carolina Academy of Anesthesiologist Assistants, Koty is also involved in several other state and national groups. For example, he is currently on the American Society of Anesthesiologists Committee on Rural Access to Anesthesia Care. He is also involved in the faculty and clinical affairs team at a nearby college.

As a proud South University alum, Koty is thankful for how his education prepared him for his career. It’s an appreciation he shares with his wife, Stephanie Gainey Price, a clinical pharmacist and South University, Columbia 2016 Doctor of Pharmacy graduate, with whom he has two sons. Together, this pair of South University graduates is truly making a difference for the health of South Carolina.

Tell us your alumni success story!

If you’re a grad who wants to share your experiences and career highlights, visit the South University Alumni Site to share your alumni success story.

--

Graduates are required to pass the national certification exam and obtain a state license in order to work in the field. (Exam names vary by program.) Please refer to the State Professional Licensure Determination and National Certification/Licensure section of the University catalog for additional information. South University cannot guarantee each graduate will pass the required licensure examinations. South University does not promise or guarantee licensure, employment, or salary amounts.

Programs, including all Clinical/Medical programs, have a required in-person, practicum, or externship. We cannot guarantee flexibility in these components of the program.

Testimonials have been provided by students/alumni in their own words and without coercion. This spotlight is based on information shared in 2026.