Physical Therapy Center
The Department of Physical Therapy will host DPT Open House on Saturday, March 7, 2026, for prospective students and families. Drop in between 10:00 AM and 12:00 PM at the Physical Therapy Center located next to Estes Football Stadium on Bruce Street. This is an opportunity to meet faculty and students, tour the PT Center and find out more about the DPT Program at the University of Central Arkansas.
The American Physical Therapy Association has announced newly elected members of the Board of Directors. Congratulations to Dr. Lisa VanHoose, PT, PhD, MPH, FAPTA, who was recently elected to the APTA Board of Directors for a four-year term beginning in 2026. Dr. VanHoose is a UCA PT alumnus (’96) and former Department of Physical Therapy faculty member (2016-2019). Currently, she is Professor of Physical Therapy and Director of the DPT Program at the University of Louisiana Monroe. Dr. VanHoose is a Fellow of the American Academy of Physical Therapy and a Board-Certified Clinical Specialist in Oncologic Physical Therapy. She received her PhD in Rehabilitation Science and Master of Public Health from the University of Kansas Medical Center. Her BS in Health Science and MS in Physical Therapy are from the University of Central Arkansas.
The APTA Board provides strategic direction for the organization and advocates on behalf of physical therapists, physical therapist assistants, students of physical therapy, and patients nationwide to advance the profession of physical therapy and improve the health of society. Speaking on behalf of APTA, CEO Justin Moore, PT, DPT, said, “It is my honor to welcome our newly elected and returning members and officers of the APTA Board of Directors, and to extend sincere gratitude to our departing leaders for their years of dedicated service to advancing the physical therapy profession. This 2026 Board brings diverse perspectives and a shared commitment to advancing APTA’s strategic priorities, including improving payment, empowering our members, and evolving our practice. Their leadership will be instrumental in driving progress for physical therapists, physical therapist assistants, and the patients they serve.”
PhD in Physical Therapy student, Dr. Sydney Roset, PT, DPT, presented her dissertation on November 7, 20205 at 9:00 am. The dissertation was entitled, “Preparing Empathetic Practitioners: The Development and Implementation of Trauma-Informed Care Training in Doctor of Physical Therapy Education”. Dr. Roset’s major professor was Dr. Leah Lowe for this project. Dr. Roset will complete her PhD and graduate in December 2025.
Applications now open for Bridging the Gap: Arkansas Physical Therapy Underserved Community Scholarship presented by APTA Arkansas and the Arkansas State Board of Physical Therapy. Available to DPT2 or DPT3 students in Arkansas. Two-year commitment to work in underserved community in Arkansas. For more information contact by email at ar.pt.scholarship@gmail.com.
Dry Needling Foundations Course by Dr. Andrew Nelson of Leading-Edge Academy was held October 11 through October 12, 2025. Third-year DPT students, recent 2025 graduates and faculty joined the group for this hands-on weekend course of learning and skill development that introduced essential dry needling principles and techniques as part of the path toward full Orthopedic Dry Needling Certification, which will be completed during the Advanced Dry Needling Course on November 22 through November 23, 2025. A huge thank you to Leading Edge Academy for partnering with UCA DPT to host this professional development opportunity on campus.
UCA DPT Family Day was held on Saturday, October 11, 2025. Winners of the Chili Cook-Off were announced. First place Golden Ladle was awarded to first year student Abbi Launius. Second place Silver Bowl was awarded to Dr. RuthAnn Mathis. The Bronze Measuring Spoons third place award winner was first year student Shelby Drumwright. Great work to the winners and thanks to all the chili cooks and PT Club for hosting a great family.
White Coat Ceremony DPT Class of 2027, October 11, 2025
The University of Central Arkansas DPT Class of 2027 held their White Coat Ceremony on Saturday, October 11, 2025, at the Windgate Center of Fine and Performing Arts.
October is National Physical Therapy Month! This month raises awareness about the many benefits of physical therapy and celebrates the work of PTs, PTAs, and students who transform lives.
This year’s theme, “PT for Future Me,” highlights the important role physical therapy plays in promoting strength, mobility, and overall wellness at every age. Physical therapy supports prevention, function, and quality of life, helping people live healthier, more active lives.
Check out the APTA website for more information.
UCA Foundation Scholarship Reception, September 25, 2025
Physical Therapy Student Scholarships were presented on September 25, 2025, during the annual Scholarship Reception hosted by UCA Foundation. First year students Lani Hackney, Samantha Hopkins, Gage Johnson, Amy French, and Kara Sain received the Charlotte Mills Fant Memorial Scholarship. Third year student Jayden Dumas received the Madeline Ann Grubbs Scholarship. Second year student Braeden Johnson and third year student Abigail McBroome received the Thomas M. Meadows Memorial Scholarship. Second year students James Christopher and Taylor Zimmerman and third year students Ashlyn McCanless and Madelyn Tankersley received the Joe Finnell Physical Therapy Scholarship. These 12 awards totaled almost $9,000 made possible by private donations from UCA PT alumni and friends. We are grateful for these student scholarships made possible by generous contributions.
