Cumberlands Physical Therapy Program Honors First Graduates

The inaugural cohort of students from University of the Cumberlands’ Connie D. Hauser School of Physical Therapy graduated from the program on December 13, 2024. The ceremony took place on the Williamsburg campus, where students were recognized for their outstanding academic achievements and presented with doctoral hoods.

“Today’s hooding ceremony holds a deep and symbolic meaning, as it marks their formal transition from students to healthcare professionals,” said Dr. Vicki Lafay, program director. “Know this hood symbolizes not only what you’ve accomplished but also the responsibilities you carry forward.” 

The graduation ceremony marked the official end of the students’ rigorous academic journey at Cumberlands. As part of the build-up to graduation, students took part in a 31-week full-time clinical experience, which is a requirement for program completion. 

During the ceremony, administrators took a few moments to recognize the clinical partners that supported, and continue to support, Cumberlands by providing these hands-on experiences for students. PT Pros, Upstream Rehab, and Benchmark Physical Therapy were recognized for their contributions to the program. Clinical instructors Bryan Shaver and Shannon Singleton were also honored with the Clinical Educator Excellence Award. 

Graduates were also recognized for their exceptional contributions to the program inside and outside the classroom. Program administrators announced the following awards during the ceremony:

• ACAPT National Physical Therapist Student Honor Society: Lexie Donithan and Anna Beth Hall
• APTA Kentucky All-Academic Team: Dylan Wilson and Lexie Donithan
• Outstanding Graduate Award: Anna Beth Hall
• Clinical Excellence Award: Austin Anderson and Tyler Ward 
• Service/Advocacy Award: Lexie Donithan
• Spirit of Physical Therapy Award: Kale Tanner
• Connie D. Hauser Leadership Award: Dylan Wilson 

The Connie D. Hauser Leadership Award is issued in honor of the program’s namesake. Dr. Hauser is a standout in the field of physical therapy, led the way for women in the industry, and is one of the first physical therapists to enter private practice in Kentucky. Dr. Hauser entered private practice in 1980, opening her first PT Pros office in a rural community. PT Pros now serves patients from 15 offices across two states. 

Dr. Justin Moore, CEO of the American Physical Therapy Association, recognized Dr. Hauser and the program graduates through his keynote address. The APTA represents more than 100,000 members across the country. Dr. Moore has served with the organization for more than two decades. 

“I believe we will see your generation realize its full potential and have an impact beyond our imagination in this profession,” Dr. Moore said. “People literally place their confidence and health in your hands. Never forget how special that is. Never underestimate the impact you will have today.” 

Cumberlands’ Doctor of Physical Therapy is a full-time graduate program. Applicants must have completed their bachelor’s degree. The program has an accelerated curriculum that students can complete in as little as two years (six semesters), delivered in a blended format that includes instruction online, on-campus, and in physical therapy settings. The program is fully accredited by the Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education (CAPTE). 

To learn more about the program, visit www.ucumberlands.edu/academics/graduate/doctor-physical-therapy-dpt.