Class of 2024 Convocation Program

Class of 2024 Convocation Program

December 13, 2024

Convocation Program Introduction

Alyssa Arms, PT, DPT, OCS Marshal Clinical Senior Instructor

Welcome and Introduction

Michael Harris-Love, PT, MPT, DSc, FGSA Professor Program Director, Residential Pathway Associate Dean for Physical Therapy Education

Guest Speaker

Roderick Nairn, PhD Executive Vice Chancellor for Academic and Student Affairs University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus

Guest Speaker

John H. Samson, MD, PhD, MBA Richard D. Krugman Endowed Chair Vice Chancellor for Health Affairs Dean, University of Colorado School of Medicine

Guest Speaker

Venu Akuthota, MD Professor and Chair | Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation CU Medicine Endowed Chair University of Colorado School of Medicine

Comments to the Class

Angela Delos Santos, SPT President, Class of 2024

Graduation Address

Amy McDevitt, PT, DPT, PhD, OCS, FAAOMPT Associate Professor Section Director, Curriculum David James, PT, DPT, OCS, SCS Senior Instructor Orthopaedic Residency Coordinator

Presentation of Awards

Meghan Hernandez, PT, DPT, PCS Senior Instructor Pediatric Residency Director

CU PT Alumni Rising Star Award

Deana Gordon, PT, DPT President-elect, PT Alumni Association

CU PT Alumni Achievement Award

Joanna Roybal, PT, DPT President, PT Alumni Association

Cerasoli Award for Outstanding Contributions to Physical Therapy Education

Michael Harris-Love

Convocation Program Champion of CU Physical Therapy Award

Dan Malone, PT, PhD Associate Professor Director, Hybrid Pathway

CU PT Excellence in Teaching Award

Dana Judd, PT, DPT, PhD Associate Professor Section Director of Student Affairs Faculty Residency Director

Recognition of Resident Graduates

Catherine Bilyeu, Meghan Hernandez, David James & Dana Judd

Outstanding Clinical Instructor Award

Catherine Bilyeu, PT, DPT, PhD, OCS Assistant Professor Associate Director, Clinical Education, Residential Pathway

Mary Gosnell Award

Joe Palmer, PT, DPT, PhD Assistant Professor Director, Clinical Education

Richard D. Krugman Award

Wendy Kriekels, PT, DPT, NCS Senior Instructor

Outstanding Capstone Award

Tami Struessel, PT, DPT, OCS, MTC Associate Professor

National Physical Therapy Student Honor Society

Lauren Hinrichs-Kinney, PT, DPT, PhD, OCS Assistant Professor

Physical Therapy Program Altruism in Action Award

Jennifer Logan, PT, DPT, NCS Senior Instructor

Herbert J. Levy Humanitarian Award

Cory Christiansen, PT, PhD, FAPTA Professor

Outstanding Doctor of Physical Therapy Award

Dana Judd

Closing Remarks

Dana Judd & Michael Harris-Love

CU Physical Therapy Awards Cerasoli Award for Outstanding Contributions to Physical Therapy Education

Mary Gosnell Award

The Physical Therapy Program initiated this award in 1998 to highlight the significant contributions to physical therapy education by Pauline (Polly) Cerasoli, PT, EdD, Director of the CU Physical Therapy Program and Assistant Dean of Allied Health from 1988 to 1996. The award recipient must demonstrate: significant contributions toward the academic or clinical education of student physical therapists at the University of Colorado, creativity or innovation in educational activities, membership in the American Physical Therapy Association (APTA), and be a role model of professional behavior in the educational process.

Herbert J. Levy established this award in memory of a fellow physical therapist, Mary Gosnell, PT. The student who receives this award has been nominated by his/her Clinical Instructors for outstanding clinical performance and has demonstrated the following characteristics: knowledge in integrating didactic and clinical content, effective communication skills, determination of appropriate patient care procedures and progressions based on sound problem solving, acceptance of responsibility for comprehensive patient care, competence in technical skills, effective teaching ability, a positive, enthusiastic and caring attitude, and professionalism in all aspects of patient care.

Champion of CU Physical Award

Outstanding Clinical Instructor Award

The CU Physical Therapy Program Faculty recognizes and appreciates members of our community who support and contribute to the education of our students. The Champion of CU Physical Therapy Award identifies outstanding individuals from outside of the CU Physical Therapy Program who positively impact the education of our students. The Champion of CU Physical Therapy is recognized for providing unwavering support to our students and going above and beyond to ensure their success while at the University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus.

This award was established by the Physical Therapy Program Faculty in 2000 to honor those Clinical Instructors who have made remarkable contributions through their mentorship of our students during the clinical phase of the curriculum. This award honors dedicated individuals who have demonstrated a strong commitment to clinical education and have provided excellent clinical experiences for our students. The award recognizes their integral role in preparing well-rounded, caring, and compassionate professionals who will lead physical therapy into the future.

CUPT Excellence in Teaching Award

Outstanding Clinical Partner Award

The CU PT Excellence in Teaching Award was created with the intention of recognizing and supporting excellence in the education of our DPT students through the acknowledgment of an individual with exemplary teaching skills. Students, staff, and faculty were asked to nominate and select an individual who: devotes their passions to DPT student education; teaches from a sound, comprehensive, and current evidence-based knowledge; demonstrates excellence in the ability to engage and motivate students; and plays an instrumental role in developing students as professionals.

The Outstanding Clinical Partner Award was established by the Physical Therapy Program in 2023 to honor a Clinical Site for their strong commitment to a collaborative partnership in order to create a culture of teaching and learning that contributes to Excellence in Clinical Education.

This award recognizes the collective effort of all the individuals at this site who make each clinical experience successful, including the administrative leadership, the site coordinators of clinical education, clinical instructors, clinicians, and staff who provide a welcoming and inclusive learning environment for our students to be able to thrive.

National Physical Therapy Student Honor Society This society is an organization established by the American Council of Academic Physical Therapy to recognize current DPT students who demonstrate excellence, integrity, and professionalism in academics, research, leadership and service. Society inductees will receive national recognition and special distinction at their graduation ceremony.

CU Physical Therapy Awards Outstanding Capstone Award

Herbert J. Levy Humanitarian Award

This award was established to recognize outstanding work on a capstone project by a graduating student. Recipients of the award were nominated by their faculty mentor, and the winner was chosen based on merit of their written paper, poster presentation, and oral presentation.

The CU Physical Therapy Alumni Association established this award to honor Herbert J. Levy, PT, a pioneer in physical therapy. He graduated in the first Physical Therapy class at the University of Colorado in 1948, helped establish several physical therapy and rehabilitation programs throughout the city of Denver, and developed one of the first private physical therapy practices. His involvement in the field of physical therapy continued long after his retirement from practice in 1986. He was an ardent supporter of and valued the relationship that he had with the Program. In 1988 Herb received the first Alumni of the Year Award. The recipient of this award personifies the attributes of Herb Levy: by demonstrating consistent commitment to the profession of physical therapy and to the CU Physical Therapy Program; by honorable actions and thoughts; and by having pride in family, a kind heart, a warm smile, and a generosity of spirit.

Richard D. Krugman Award Richard D. Krugman, MD, served as Dean of the University of Colorado School of Medicine for 24 years. Fondly known as the “Dean of Deans” across the nation, Dr. Krugman established this award to honor an individual who portrays the spirit of service to individuals and the community, fostering caring and quality of life for people at all levels of society. This individual, chosen by their peers, is compassionate toward others, creates connections and values ongoing innovation.

The recipient of this award mirrors Dr. Krugman’s leadership through excellence, integrity and high quality work.

Physical Therapy Program Altruism in Action Award The University of Colorado Physical Therapy Program Faculty established this award in 2015 to recognize a graduating student who demonstrates a spirit of altruism through action.

This award was inspired by Betti Krapfl, physical therapist and former faculty member, who demonstrated dedication and passion toward improving the access and delivery of physical therapy and other services to diverse and underserved communities both locally and globally. The recipient of this award is recognized for exemplifying the qualities of leadership, commitment and altruism through consistent and ongoing service.

*The University of Colorado Physical Therapy Program provides a variety of scholarships to both prospective and current students to make physical therapy education more financially feasible. The efforts of the Physical Therapy Scholarship and Endowment Board and the generosity of our donors allow us to provide scholarships in a variety of areas including diversity, rural, merit, and dance performance. If you are interested in providing support for the CU PT Scholarship Fund you may visit: https://giving.cu.edu/fund/physical-therapy-scholarship-fund or use this QR code. Thank you!

Outstanding Doctor of Physical Therapy Student Award The Physical Therapy Program Faculty established the Outstanding Doctor of Physical Therapy Award to recognize the exemplary achievements by a student graduating from our program. The award recognizes an individual who demonstrates academic/clinical/research excellence, effective interpersonal skills, leadership ability, social responsibility, professional duty, involvement within the community and/or professional association, and collaboration with others. They show a commitment to personal achievement, seek out opportunities for professional growth, are inclusive of others, and demonstrate the potential to make lasting impact on the Physical Therapy profession and the needs of society. The recipient of this award represents additional core values of the profession and our program including respect, passion, accountability, altruism, compassion, integrity, and equity.

Class of 2024 Graduates Althoff, Jordan - Forest Hill, Maryland Plans After Graduation: I'm going to Disney World!

I would like to thank: My parents and family who helped me make it through the toughest of days, my friends who helped me create the happiest memories, and all my professors and teachers who have shaped me through the years Altman, Gonie - Denver, Colorado Plans After Graduation: I plan on taking a nice long break till after I take the NPTE in January and then I hope to find a few PRN positions to fill my days before spending the summer getting married abroad in Israel!

I would like to thank: my fiance Roy who has supported me from the very first day of my undergraduate degree to my very last day of my doctorate. Grateful for his writing skills, home cooked meals, and lots of patience!

Atencio, Ashley - Los Alamos, New Mexico Plans After Graduation: Celebrate the holidays with my family and friends and enjoy the Colorado snow while skiing!

I would like to thank: To my family, thank you for your unwavering support and always believing in my dream. To my friends, thank you for always keeping me laughing, sane, and for creating lifelong memories.

Baeza, Jerica - Milliken, Colorado Plans After Graduation: I plan to spend time with family and travel before finding a job in oncology rehabilitation.

I would like to thank: My parents, my partner, and my friends who helped support me throughout the program Barritt, Hanna - Somerset, Wisconsin Plans After Graduation: Moving to Knoxville, TN, celebrating the holidays with family, and then honeymooning with my husband in Japan and Hawaii!

I would like to thank: My husband, Zach, for always being supportive and pushing me to be the best version of myself. My family for always believing in me. And the friends I've made here, for sharing their fun and love!

Bergevin, Kyle - Apple Valley, Minnesota Plans After Graduation: Pursue a job in the inpatient setting I would like to thank: My family, friends, classmates, clinical instructors, professors, and of course my bunnies Balsam and Blizzard for all of their support!

Berghoff, Carli - Sandy, OR Plans After Graduation: Ski all the powder & climb in Red Rocks:) I would like to thank: My entire family, Rozi the therapy dog, & the hacky sack crew Beyrooty, Brooke - Newport Beach, California Plans After Graduation: I will be spending the holidays with my family before starting work at an outpatient ortho clinic!

I would like to thank: My parents and brothers for always supporting and encouraging me, and my friends and fellow classmates for keeping me sane the last 2.5 years! Love you all!

Bindert, Elizabeth - Sioux Falls, South Dakota Plans After Graduation: Take a much needed break, then begin searching for a place in Colorado to settle down and begin my career. Also hoping to adopt a furry friend very soon!

I would like to thank: My family for always believing that I could do anything I set my mind to, and my friends for filling a tough 2.5 years with lots of fun, laugher, and volleyball!

Bost, Coleen - Overland Park Plans After Graduation: I plan to continue work in Del Norte then start travel physical therapy exploring the country I would like to thank: family, friends and pets for their constant support and always believing in me even when I did not believe in myself

Class of 2024 Graduates Brackemyre, Grace - Indianapolis, Indiana Plans After Graduation: Where I'm headed is anyone's guess, even mine. But I'm not racing to get there; I'm just enjoying the ride. To my friends & family - good luck keeping up with my ever-changing FindMyFriends location:) I would like to thank: To the Grace Brackemyre Fan Club - thank you for teaching me that the pursuit of excellence is personal, growth comes from following my heart, and my dreams are always worth chasing. I love you all!

Cadwell, Makenzie - San Antonio, Texas Plans After Graduation: After graduation, I will be traveling to Europe for the holidays!

I would like to thank: I would like to thank my parents, Kim and Jim, and my husband, Michael, for their unwavering love, support, and encouragement over the last few years. I couldn't have done it without yall!

Callanan, Alayna - Boxford, Massachusetts Plans After Graduation: Stay in Colorado to work in outpatient orthopedics.

I would like to thank: My family and my partner, Mike, for supporting me on this journey.

Castro, Abigail - Harlingen, Texas Plans After Graduation: I will be begin my career as a traveling physical therapist with my first assignment in Washington state in outpatient pediatrics!

I would like to thank: Benjamin for the support and amazing food he's given me during my time in the program. I am grateful for the support from my family even though they were 1,000 miles away!

Chase, Brandon - La Jolla, California Plans After Graduation: I plan on moving to Grand Junction to work at Community Hospital.

I would like to thank: I would like to thank my wife for always supporting me in my endeavors.

Crato, Ines - Denver, Colorado Plans After Graduation: Celebratory vacation trip with my family.

I would like to thank: My parents who have always supported my dreams and who this would be impossible without. And to my partner, who for some reason boarded this stressful ship and has kept me sane and fed!

Deihl, Maizie - New Prague, MN Plans After Graduation: After spending a month exploring and rejuvenating in New Zealand and Australia, I am so excited to start my PT career at Cascade Sports Injury Prevention & Physical Therapy in Lakewood, CO. I would like to thank: my family for always being my biggest cheerleaders, professors & mentors for their guidance & unwavering belief in my potential, & classmates for making the past 2.5 years my favorite chapter yet.

Delos Santos, Angela - San Diego, California Plans After Graduation: Will happily be working at Specialized Physical Therapy here in Denver, CO as an Ortho-Pelvic Physical Therapist!

I would like to thank: my amazing and loving mom and dad for financing my matcha fix during all the times I could only be productive in coffee shops Downey, Maura - Westminster, Colorado Plans After Graduation: Enjoy the holidays with my family, friends, and partner here in the Front Range!

I would like to thank: My parents Bill & Cherie, sister Claire, partner Nick, and wonderful friends for all the support and love.

My classmates, professors, and CI's for being your brilliant selves and sharing knowledge.

Class of 2024 Graduates Dvorak, Ethan - Fort Collins, Colorado Plans After Graduation: After graduation, I plan to join the team at Craig Hospital, where I will work to support individuals with neurological conditions in regaining their independence.

I would like to thank: My parents for their endless support and belief in me. To my fiancé Austyn, I couldn't have done this without your love, patience, and encouragement. This achievement is as much yours as it is mine.

Epp, Sabra - Fairview, OK Plans After Graduation: Physical therapist at Howard Head Sports Medicine in Gypsum, CO. I would like to thank: My husband and dad for being encouraging and supportive throughout the process of changing my life.

Faria Dos Santos, Ariele - São José dos Campos, Brazil Plans After Graduation: Pelvic Floor PT specializing in sexual health.

I would like to thank: Nathan, thank you for supporting my dreams and cherishing life with me. Nicki, thank you for always being a ray of sunshine. Mãe, Pai e Irmã: Obrigada por estarem sempre ao meu lado. Eu os amo muito!

Foltz, Chantel - Durango, Colorado Plans After Graduation: Spend the holidays with family then completing a sports residency in wisconsin I would like to thank: My Family for their support throughout the last several years. I would not be here today if wasn't for the late night calls, cries and laughs. And my classmates for cheering me on through hard times.

Giroux, Sophie - Broomfield, CO Plans After Graduation: I plan on enjoying time with friends and family and getting in as many ski days as possible before starting this next chapter.

I would like to thank: I want to thank my parents, siblings, grandparents, and my partner for supporting me through this journey. Their continuous encouragement as meant the world to me.

Haren, Hope - Monroe, North Carolina Plans After Graduation: Spending time with family over Christmas before starting my career as a Doctor of Physical Therapy.

I would like to thank: My family (especially my parents Sandy and Paul), my partner Bryce, and my friends for their constant support, love, and encouragement. I'm so proud and grateful to share this moment with you all!

Haynes, Syd - Longmont, CO Plans After Graduation: leaving the country.

I would like to thank: My amazing and supportive husband Matt.

Houck, Carmen - Broomfield, Colorado Plans After Graduation: Spend time with friends and family, enjoy time off, move in with my partner after 3.5 years of long distance, ski a bunch, and maybe find a job...

I would like to thank: Thank you to my mom, dad, brother, grandparents, Joey, and friends for all the laughs, love, memories, tears, hugs, study sessions, and unwavering support. I couldn't have done it without you all.

Iarusso, Julianne - Littleton, CO Plans After Graduation: I plan to spend quality time with my friends and family, plan a trip to Europe, and enjoy some time off before beginning my career in outpatient orthopedics!

I would like to thank: My family and partner for their endless support and love, the faculty at CU for getting us here, and my amazing PT friends for navigating this journey with me! I love you all!

Class of 2024 Graduates Jones, Renee - The Woodlands, Texas Plans After Graduation: I will be finishing out my second season as a Denver Broncos Cheerleader, spending time with family and friends, and traveling to Europe before starting work at Blue Sky Physical Therapy!

I would like to thank: My parents for encouraging me to move to Colorado for this PT program, Chloe & Baylor who supported me as I studied for the NPTE, and my PT friends who I wouldn't have survived school without.

Jordan, Gabriella - Denver, Colorado Plans After Graduation: After graduation I plan to enjoy the holidays with family and start my big girl job as an outpatient physical therapist in Denver Colorado!

I would like to thank: My family and friends for supporting me from the beginning of this journey. I couldn't have done it without y'all.

Kalmar, Kaitlyn - Windsor, Colorado Plans After Graduation: Celebrating this accomplishment with my fiancé, family, and friends followed by relaxing during the holidays before starting my first job as a DPT in acute care!

I would like to thank: Wesley, my fiancé, who has supported me every step of the way and my amazing mom, dad, and brother who have always supported me and cheered me on from day one & continue to do so! I love you all!

Kennedy, Katie - Bloomington, Illinois Plans After Graduation: I plan to take the boards exam, apply for jobs, and hopefully find a little time to relax!

I would like to thank: I really want to thank my friends for all of their support in helping me get here today, my family, and all of the professors who have guided me on this journey.

Killeen, Grace - Woodbury, Minnesota Plans After Graduation: Move back home to Minnesota and enjoy time with my family I would like to thank: My parents for always encouraging me, my family for being my constant cheerleaders, and my friends for making Denver feel like home.

Klaus, Jessica - Pueblo, CO Plans After Graduation: I have been offered a position at Advanced PT, an outpatient ortho clinic in Wichita, KS. I would like to thank: I would like to thank my husband for everything, especially for continuously supporting me in all of my wild endeavors, no questions asked. I'd also like to thank my mom for making me who I am today.

LaReau, Tony - Madison, WI Plans After Graduation: Snowboard as much as possible before starting a big boy job and just keep on living life. I guess another goal should be trying to find said big boy job at some point after graduating.

I would like to thank: My girlfriend Hayley who has been here through it all and encouraged me to keep going when I wasn't sure and my mom because without her, I wouldn't have been born.

Lathrop, Remi - Portland, OR Plans After Graduation: Enjoying the holidays with friends and family, taking some time off to travel abroad and then hopefully pursuing a job in inpatient rehab.

I would like to thank: My wonderful parents and little sister, my ever-supportive boyfriend and my incredible friends here in Denver and beyond.

Lauria, Anna - Clemson, South Carolina Plans After Graduation: I am looking forward to doing a lot of skiing and then backpacking in New Zealand for a month!

Afterward, I plan to work in outpatient orthopedics.

I would like to thank: my parents for helping me financially so that I could make this career change, my fiance Eddie for picking up a lot of household slack, and my friends in the program who made everything silly and fun.

Class of 2024 Graduates Leavers, Alexis - New Philadelphia, Ohio Plans After Graduation: After graduation I will work full time at Select Physical Therapy in Cherry Creek.

I would like to thank: My parents, Joe and Kori, my boyfriend, Chris and my dog, Blue Levar, Nicki - Chicago, IL Plans After Graduation: Move to Okinawa, Japan with my wife Maria, hoping to work with active duty members for the DoD I would like to thank: My parents Joan and Mike for their unconditional support, my wife Maria for thriving beside me as we both take on grad school, and my brothers Jeff and Mikie for keeping me grounded and humble.

Lewis, Justin - Seattle, WA Plans After Graduation: Accepting a full-time outpatient PT position at PNW Sports Institute in Covington, Washington.

I would like to thank: My loving and supportive parents, my sister (Team Muck), my extended family, and everyone who has helped me along the path to where I'm at today. I know I couldn't have done it alone.

Li, Austin - Naperville, IL Plans After Graduation: Following graduation, I plan to take the NPTE, enjoy Colorado's winter season with plenty of snowboarding, and move back to the Chicago area to work in the outpatient orthopedic setting.

I would like to thank: My family for believing in me, Madison for navigating school alongside me, my study group for the countless silly study sessions, and my wonderful cohort who gathered around me in the toughest times.

Linnemeyer, Jessika - Castle Rock, Colorado Plans After Graduation: I hope to enjoy the holidays with my family and friends, plan a wedding, ski, relax, and take time to give back to the people who have given so much to me the past few years.

I would like to thank: My parents Mary and Joe Linnemeyer, my fiancé Colin Girard, my friends, siblings, and mentors for their unwavering support, encouragement, patience, love, and belief in me.

Mader, Hannah - London, UK Plans After Graduation: Originally, to ski for a few months, but now to put this new knowledge directly to work and heal up my ACL! I shall also be finding new hobbies that don't involve knees (suggestions gladly accepted.)

I would like to thank: Joe, Amy, everyone who has been my Front Range housemate, my family, my San Juan family, the old guys (you know who you are), and this tight-knit and supportive cohort!

Majewski, Annie - Albuquerque, NM Plans After Graduation: Outpatient PT with a focus on Pelvic Health in Boulder, CO I would like to thank: Friends and family - this journey was challenging and I wouldn't have made it without your support along every step of the way.

Maxon, Jarod – Wausau, WI Plans After Graduation: I accepted a job at Integral Physical Therapy in Thornton, starting in mid- January after I take some well needed R&R with my family for the holidays.

I would like to thank: My entire family, my partner and my roommates Erick, Michael and Dylan who kept me on track for the past 2 1/2 years.

McMullen, Jamie - Alamosa, Colorado Plans After Graduation: Make sure that I take some time to acknowledge my accomplishments and continue to strive to be a life long learner while continuing to develop in clinical practice.

I would like to thank: All of the wonderful people in the class of 2024, my family and friends who have been been with me through the thick and the thin, and the professors who have always pushed us to be our absolute best.

Class of 2024 Graduates Michael, Nam - Denver, CO Plans After Graduation: Is to catch up on sleep!

I would like to thank: I would like to thank the CU team, my CI's, and classmates for helping me throughout this journey. I am grateful for all the study groups, venting seshs, deep conversations, and volleyball games.

Oliva, Beatriz Ysabelle - Pueblo, CO Plans After Graduation: I am planning on applying for a provisional license so I can work part-time/PRN at UCHealth Parkview Hospital in Pueblo, CO as a PT while I am studying for the NPTE. I would like to thank: I would like to thank my parents for being extra tutors for me at home (they are both PTs), my brothers for making powerlifting and bodybuilding training fun, and my boyfriend David as my soundboard.

Oronia, Misael - Chaparral, New Mexico Plans After Graduation: After celebrating with loved ones and completing a year of practice in Colorado, I'll move to New Mexico for the 3-year loan repayment plan. Then, fulfill my childhood dream of owning a BMW M3.

I would like to thank: I want to give thanks and all the glory to God, because with Him all things are possible. I also want to thank my loved ones for always supporting me and pushing me to be better and to never give up.

O'Rourke, Ella - Lexington, Kentucky Plans After Graduation: I plan to be an inpatient physical therapist working closely with neurological populations.

I would like to thank: all my family and friends for their continued support always!

Ortiz, Andres - Denver, Colorado Plans After Graduation: Find a job in an outpatient clinic.

I would like to thank: My dad, my mom, my little sister, and my big sister for always supporting me. I would not have never made it this far without their love and support.

Pearson, Amber - Gonzales, Louisiana Plans After Graduation: I plan to work/live near the Denver Metro area for the foreseeable future and establish my self as an effective PT of the general outpatient orthopedic population.

I would like to thank: my parents. I could not be anywhere near where I am today without their support and I love y'all. I also want to thank all of my friends for being a shoulder to cry on (many times) over the years.

Pennington, Victoria - Palmer Lake, Colorado Plans After Graduation: Following graduation, I plan to take time to travel and spend time with friends and family. I'm excited to begin my career in the outpatient orthopedic setting, and expand my knowledge with CEUs. I would like to thank: Thank you to my family and friends for your unwavering support throughout this journey. Your love, encouragement and patience have meant the world to me. I couldn't have done it without you.

Penny, Elizabeth - Fort Collins, Colorado Plans After Graduation: After graduation, I'll be spending time with my family and gearing up for the NPTE. I'm excited to enjoy a little downtime while preparing for the next chapter in my life.

I would like to thank: I would like to thank my family and my amazing wife, Danielle, for their constant support and encouragement. I couldn't have made it through PT school without their love, patience, and belief in me.

Petty, Kate - Durango, CO Plans After Graduation: Travel to New Zealand to visit my father I would like to thank: My parents, my friends, and my crossfit family

Class of 2024 Graduates Phillips, Sophia - Virginia Beach, Virginia Plans After Graduation: I will be catching up on sleep, traveling, spending time with family and friends, and trying out the multiple cooking and baking recipes I've saved on instagram.

I would like to thank: My mom, boyfriend, study group, PT mentors, and friends both near and far for being the most incredible support system and never ceasing to believe in me.

Radebaugh, Jordan - Thornton, CO Plans After Graduation: I will join an outpatient sports clinic in North Carolina I would like to thank: my parents, siblings, and partner for supporting me through this journey Reid, Cayli - Denver Plans After Graduation: to be determined :) I would like to thank: my parents for driving me to school when I was horribly concussed and for all their support, my husband Jeff for helping me keep it all in perspective while still having fun and you all!

Romero, Andrew - Denver Plans After Graduation: Take a moment to reflect on and enjoy the chapter of my life that has been PT school and then prepare for the exciting new chapter of my life that awaits on the near horizon I would like to thank: The CU faculty, my CI's, my patients, my classmates, my friends, and my family Sanborn, Ian - Hilo, Hawaii Plans After Graduation: Enjoying time off with friends and family and snowboarding!

I would like to thank: My mom and dad, Roy and Gonie, Carmen, Maizie, Grace B, Ashlee W, Andrew, Austin, Julianne, Hacky Sack, sunshine, snowboarding, water, the gym, fruit snacks, run club, trail runs, and the Grand Canyon Schroeder, Anna - Fridley, Minnesota Plans After Graduation: I plan to take the NPTE in January, followed by traveling to visit friends, family, and new places, and of course employment.

I would like to thank: I would like to thank my family and friends, as well as the faculty and my clinical instructors who have supported me through this program.

Sells, Erick - La Crosse, Wisconsin Plans After Graduation: Following graduation, I am excited to join the team at Evolution Physical Therapy in Denver!

I would like to thank: My professors, clinical instructors, peers, friends, and most of all, my family; Caroline, Kristjan, Ethan, and Lydia.

Siedschlag, Bryan - Casper, Wyoming Plans After Graduation: Taking a well deserved break before starting work.

I would like to thank: My loving partner Saybin for supporting me while I chased my dreams, and my family for believing in me.

Sosa Salinas, Luis - Chihuahua, México Plans After Graduation: Enjoy time off while studying for the NPTE I would like to thank: I would like to thank my wife and family for their unwavering support. This accomplishment is not only mine, it's ours. Si se pudo, lo logramos. Hoy se cumple mi sueño y el de mis antepasados.

Strasburger, Sam - Colorado Springs, CO Plans After Graduation: Snowboard and enjoy the outdoors as much as possible!

I would like to thank: My family and the incredible friends I made in this program. I could not have made it through without you!

Class of 2024 Graduates Suess, Kyle - Lancaster, Pennsylvania Plans After Graduation: Fishing trip in the Florida Keys. Ski all the powder. Work at a private outpatient orthopedic facility Trailhead PT. I would like to thank: My parents for their persistent encouragement and support. My brother for our daily phone calls to stay somewhat sane. Caffeine to drive my psychotic study habits. My dog Ellie: A+ study buddy.

Swearingen, Hannah - Oregon Plans After Graduation: Work in Acute Care Physical therapy, with a focus on cardiopulmonary rehab in the beautiful state of Colorado I would like to thank: A special thank you to my dog, Max, for being my best friend and unwavering support system throughout the challenges of this program. Your companionship has meant the world to me these past months Tran, Michael - Houston Texas Plans After Graduation: Orthopedic residency I would like to thank: white boards and caffeine Wagner, Dylan - Fort Collins Colorado Plans After Graduation: I will be attending the Orthopedic Residency at CU Sports Medicine and Performance Center. Oh and snowboarding.

I would like to thank: My parents, my girlfriend Miah, all my professors and mentors that have helped support me and shape me into the Physical Therapist I plan to be.

Warner, Audrey - Princeton, New Jersey Plans After Graduation: Spending quality time with my family at home in Central Oregon.

I would like to thank: My parents, my brother David, and my boyfriend Jordan for all of their support during my time in the program. I truly could not have done it without you all.

Weeks, Cassidy - Smithfield, Utah Plans After Graduation: Following graduation I will be transitioning into the Rehabilitation Science PhD here at CU. I would like to thank: My family for their unwavering support in this journey & for being here today to celebrate with me. And I would like to thank all the wonderful friends I have made in this program, I love you all!

Wolfe, Lauren - Seattle, Washington Plans After Graduation: Moving to Nashville, TN and will be pursuing travel PT. I would like to thank: My family, friends, and lovely partner for their endless support throughout my PT journey.

Workman, Ashlee - Colorado Springs, CO Plans After Graduation: I'm planning on doing a lot of relaxing, spending time with friends and family, and hopefully finding a job :) I would like to thank: The CU faculty, my CIs, my friends, my family, and especially my fiancé, Noah, for his unwavering love and support over the past 2.5 years. Your sacrifices made it possible for me to chase my dreams!

Class of 2024 Graduates Althoff, Jordan Altman, Gonie Atencio, Ashley Baeza, Jerica Barritt, Hanna Bergevin, Kyle Berghoff, Carli Beyrooty, Brooke Bindert, Elizabeth Bost, Coleen Brackemyre, Grace Cadwell, Makenzie Callanan, Alayna Castro, Abigail Chase, Brandon Crato, Ines Deihl, Maizie Delos Santos, Angela Dos Santos, Ariele Downey, Maura Dvorak, Ethan Epp, Sabra Foltz, Chantel Giroux, Sophie Haren, Hope

Haynes, Sydney Houck, Carmen Iarusso, Julianne Jones, Renee Jordan, Gabriella Kalmar, Kaitlyn Kennedy, Katie Killeen, Grace Klaus, Jessica LaReau, Anthony Lathrop, Remi Lauria, Anna Leavers, Alexis Levar, Nicole Lewis, Justin Li, Austin Linnemeyer, Jessika Mader, Hannah Majewski, Anne Maxson, Jarod McMullen, Jamie Nam, Michael Oliva, Beatriz Ysabelle Oronia, Misael O'Rourke, Ella

Ortiz Torres, Andres Pearson, Amber Pennington, Victoria Penny, Elizabeth Petty, Kate Phillips, Sophia Radebaugh, Jordan Reid, Caylene Romero, Andrew Sanborn, Ian Schroeder, Anna Sells, Erick Siedschlag, Bryan Sosa Salinas, Luis Strasburger, Samuel Suess, Kyle Swearingen, Hannah Tran, Michael Wagner, Dylan Warner, Audrey Weeks, Cassidy Wolfe, Lauren Workman, Ashlee

CU Physical Therapy Faculty

Rebecca Abbott, PT, DPT, PhD

Wendy Kriekels, PT, DPT, NCS

Alyssa Arms, PT, DPT, OCS

Melanie Lambert, PT, DPT, DHSc, OCS

Mike Bade, PT, DPT, PhD, OCS, FAAOMPT

Jennifer Logan. PT, DPT, NCS

Melissa Barella, MS

Dawn Magnusson, PT, PhD

Catherine Bilyeu, PT, DPT, PhD, OCS

Daniel Malone, PT, PhD, CCS

Lara Canham, PT, DPT, OCS

Mark Mañago, PT, DPT, PhD, NCS

Cory Christiansen, PT, PhD

Amy McDevitt, PT, DPT, PhD, OCS, FAAOMPT

EJ Gann, PT, DPT, NCS

Nia Mensah, PT, DPT, PhD

Alex Garbin, PT, DPT, PhD

Amy Nordon-Craft, PT, DSc

Robyn Gisbert, PT, DPT

Joe Palmer III, PT, DPT, PhD

Michael Harris-Love, PT, MPT, DSc, FGSA, FAPTA

Mike Pascoe, PhD

Michelle Harris-Love, PT, PhD

Stephanie Pascoe PT, DPT, DSc, OCS, FAAOMPT

Meghan Hernandez, PT, DPT, PCS

Jennifer Rodriguez, PT, DPT, MHS

Lauren Hinrichs-Kinney, PT, DPT, PhD, OCS

Eric Sawyer, PT, DPT, STC, OCS, CFEI

Holly Ingham, PT, DPT, ATP, PCS

Andrew Smith, PT, DPT, PhD

David James, PT, DPT, OCS, SCS

Jennifer Stevens-Lapsley, PT, PhD, FAPTA

Molly Jones, PT, DPT, NCS

Tami Struessel, PT, DPT, OCS, MTC

Dana Judd, PT, DPT, PhD

Lilly Webster, PT, DPT, MPH

Rebecca Keefer, PT, DPT, CCS

Sarah Wiehe, PT, DPT, NCS

Toby Kinney, PT, DPT, OCS, FAAOMPT, MBA, PhD

Mission, Vision & Values Mission The University of Colorado Physical Therapy Program leads discovery and innovation to improve movement, participation, health, and wellness for all individuals and society through excellence in education, research, clinical care, and service.

Vision Transform health and foster wellness in individuals and society through education, discoveries, engagement and innovation with dedication to diversity and equity for individuals, communities and society.

Values Our Program values serve to support our mission and vision, shape our culture, anchor our goals and reflect the physical therapy profession’s vision and core values.

Respect

Passion

For all individual’s safety, rights, dignity, and perspectives

Commitment to lifelong learning, service, and community engagement

Integrity

Leadership

Because professional behavior reflects who we are

Within the university, profession and community at large

Altruism

Quality

In service to the individual, community and organization

Attainment of excellence in all we do

Accountability

Diversity

To all those seeking care and providing care within our profession and health care systems

Inclusivity in all endeavors

Collaboration Leveraging collective input from all individuals