Elon DPT candidates signed their names to a book that stood as a pledge to their commitment to the practice of physical therapy.
The 47 members of the Doctor of Physical Therapy’s Class of 2028 pledged to be ethical, compassionate and respectful professionals during the Department of Physical Therapy Education professional pledge ceremony on Friday, Feb. 27.
The program began with an introduction from Robert Nithman, program director of physical therapy education, followed by a message from Provost and Vice President of Academic Affairs, Rebecca Kohn. She refreshed the student’s memory on Elon University’s mission statement in connection to the mission and duties of a physical therapy career.
“Elon University embraces its founder’s vision of an academic community that transforms mind, body and spirit,” said Kohn. “It encourages freedom of thought and liberty of conscience. As I reflected on your ceremony, it was apparent that for physical therapists, through the holistic care you provide your patients, you are actively transforming minds, bodies and spirits. To achieve this, you must rely heavily on the core values of caring, compassion, inclusion and social responsibility.”
The ceremony, held in Lakeside, symbolized the students next steps in committing to a career that demands humility, resiliency and empathy.
“You’re stepping into a role where people trust you with their pain, their fears and their hopes,” said Nithman. “You will earn that trust through your actions every day. Through your work, you will give many the chance to reclaim parts of their lives that they feared were lost.”
Srikant Vallabhajosula, professor of physical therapy education, and Alys Giordano, assistant professor of physical therapy education, serve as the cohort advisors for the DPT class of 2028, and they began the introduction of the signees. Students posed while writing their signature, along with taking a headshot photo after they completed their walk.
Before starting the Physical Therapy Pledge, class leaders Marisa Santamauro G’28 and Chimeri Anazia G’28 were invited to the podium to lead their peers in reciting the pledge. After the pledge concluded, Nithman finished the ceremony with some closing remarks.
“Students, on behalf of our faculty, staff and administration, we are very proud of you. We are honored to guide you, and we look forward to watching you grow into the clinicians and leaders that our communities desperately need,” Nithman said.
Elon’s Doctor of Physical Therapy program emphasizes a patient-centered approach to the profession. The program includes science, research and 48 weeks of hands-on clinical practicums to reinforce what students learn in the classrooms to everyday life.