Graduates of the Division of Physical Therapy received their degrees at its 60th annual commencement ceremony, held at the William and Ida Friday Center for Continuing Education, on Saturday, August 3. The ceremony recognized 30 members of the class of 2019 and one physical therapist who completed requirements for the Doctor of Physical Therapy. Additionally, three physical therapists received recognition for completing orthopedic and pediatric residencies.
Awards presented at the ceremony included the following:
- Margaret L. Moore Student Recognition Award to Olivia Desena Fleming
- Darlene K. Sekerak and Ben F. Massey, Jr. Service Award to Deanna Sipes
- Judy Capps Beswick Award for outstanding clinical performance to Deborah Guthmann
The Award for Excellence in Clinical Instruction was given to Toya Hart and to Devon Werner. Mike McMorris received the Outstanding Faculty Award.
“You represent the next generation of health care, and we are proud of all that you have accomplished,” said Stephen Hooper, PhD, associate dean and chair of the Department of Allied Health Sciences. “Congratulations to all on a job well done.”
Deborah Givens, the division’s director, wished students well as the join the profession. “Graduates, we know we have passionate learners, mentors, trailblazers and commanders of ships among you,” Givens said. “The faculty and I look forward to seeing you continue to grow in those roles as you start your physical therapy careers and further your contributions to your profession and communities.”
The Division of Physical Therapy consistently ranks in U.S. News & World Report as a top program in physical therapy. The program boasts more than 1,700 graduates who live around the world but maintain close ties with Carolina.
Hart, Warner, and McMorris are all PT, DPT. Givens holds PT and PhD degrees.