The UNC Student Physical Therapy Association (SPTA) and the Division of Physical Therapy proudly welcomed 37 incoming students from the Class of 2028 during a professionalism ceremony held on September 5, 2025, at the Medical Biomolecular Research Building.
This meaningful event welcomed students into the profession of physical therapy, highlighting the division’s commitment to professionalism and the delivery of exceptional patient care. The ceremony also emphasized the importance of prioritizing their own well-being as future healthcare professionals, recognizing that the best care starts with self-care.
Entirely organized and led by students, SPTA president Regan Kraft welcomed the incoming class and oversaw the coordination of the event.
The program also featured remarks from Kraft, Tim Eckard, the Director of the Division of Physical Therapy, and Jennifer Cooke, Associate Professor and Director of Clinical Education (DCE). Each shared words of encouragement for the class of 2028 as they transition into their professional practice.
Students then walked across the stage, where they were greeted by Eckard, who congratulated them and presented them with a scroll that had a copy of the Carolina Commitment, while shaking their hands. Eckard says, “[The scroll] is a set of professional guiding principles developed several decades ago by physical therapy students and faculty here at UNC. We invite our students to live up to and live into the Carolina Commitment during their time as student physical therapists with us and after graduation as practicing Doctors of Physical Therapy.”
The ceremony provided an opportunity for classmates, family, and friends to celebrate this exciting milestone both in person and virtually via Zoom. There were approximately 150 people in attendance in person and 45 people on Zoom.
The event concluded with a reception, during which students were presented with toolkits containing essential clinical items, symbolizing the tools they will carry into their future practice. Guests then enjoyed charcuterie boards, cake, and time to connect with peers, faculty, and loved ones; a fitting start to a promising professional journey.
Congratulations to the UNC Division of Physical Therapy Class of 2028 as they begin this new chapter!