SLU PT Alumni Spotlight - Elanna Arhos, PT, DPT, PhD

SLU PT Alumni Spotlight - Elanna Arhos, PT, DPT, PhD

Postdoctoral Research Fellow, The Ohio State University

Hometown: Chicago, IL
Current Town/City: Columbus, OH

SLU DPT Class of 2018

Interests, Activities, Clubs, and Professional Organizations

Professionally, I am involved in the APTA, specifically as the Education Chair for the American Academy of Sports Physical Therapy Knee SIG and on the membership committee for the Academy of Physical Therapy Research. Outside of work, I love to travel and explore new cities, spend time with friends and family, run, and read.

If you could come back to SLU and teach a class, which class would you like to teach?

Clinical Gait - I loved learning about the biomechanics of gait, different ways to measure movement in a motion analysis lab, and thinking through interventions to address gait pathology. It was my first peek into clinical research and is the foundation of my research focuses today.

What was the most valuable lesson — inside or outside the classroom — you learned at SLU?

I will always be grateful for the way that SLU approached PT education. There was such a clear emphasis on patient-centered care, and I felt that above all I graduated as a well-trained, empathetic clinician. From the beginning of undergrad, we were encouraged to be ‘men and women for others,’ and that truly showed throughout all 6 years I was there. These values have stayed with me as I move through my career, keeping the patient at the center of why I do what I do. For me, this means striving to deliver quality, patient-centered evidence that will ultimately improve the lives of patients.

What advice do you have for students getting ready to graduate with their DPT?

Be open-minded, keep learning, and put yourself out there. A lot of the experiences I’ve been involved in after graduating from SLU PT have been because of conversations I’ve had at conferences, cold-call emails I sent, and being open to new opportunities. We have such an amazing profession and there are so many different places within PT to make a difference. The center of our profession is patient care, but there is also research, residency training, education, advocacy efforts with regulatory agencies, and so much more. Without all these pieces our profession would not continue to be promoted within the public health space. Talk to people you see in positions that interest you and stay flexible- you never know where your career path will take you.

Is there anything else you would like to share?

My experiences at SLU set the course for my career, and I am so thankful for the faculty there who guided me as I was navigating my way through PT school. It was because of early mentorship in my time there that I had the vision to apply to do my PhD and move towards the clinical research career I find so much joy in today. 

This is one of several posts featuring SLU PT Alumni experiences. The Saint Louis University Program in Physical Therapy wants to recognize the exciting and innovative things our alumni are doing, here in St. Louis and around the world. For more information for and about SLU alumni experiences go to: http://www.slu.edu/alumni-and-donors/.

SLU PT Alumni Spotlight: John Schaefer, PT, DPT, CSCS

SLU PT Alumni John Schaefer Incorporates Other Passions into PT 

John Schaefer, PT, DPT, CSCS (Class of 2022) had experienced much uncertainty surrounding the field of Physical Therapy throughout his time at SLU. Having other interests including marketing, entrepreneurship, and journalism, he often asked himself how he could incorporate all these different fields into a future career and if PT was the right path for him.

As a PY3, he decided to start reaching out to PT’s around the country, who were pursuing unique ventures and doing things he didn’t know were possible under the title of DPT. He began recording these conversations and now routinely releases episodes on his podcast SnackBreak, under the parent company Orthosnacks (@orthosnacks), an educational platform and social media company focused on empowering students and clinicians to make the most out of their DPT with bite sized, digestible information.

John is currently an orthopedic resident training in Houston, TX @harrishealthsystems and just released the book THE RESIDENCY PLAYBOOK: A Step By Step Guide To Mastering the RF-PTCAS and Securing A Spot in Your Dream Physical Therapy Residency with the goal of demystifying the residency application process for future applicants! You can purchase the workbook on Amazon in either paperback or kindle format, as well as listen to the audio versions for free on Spotify and Youtube.

SLU PT Alumni spotlight - Brian Schwabe, PT, DPT, SCS, COMT, CSCS

SLU PT Alumni Spotlight - Brian Schwabe, PT, DPT, SCS, COMT, CSCS

Director of I.O. Sports Therapy, Irvine Orthopedic Sports Therapy

Hometown: Chicago, IL

Current Town/City: Los Angeles, CA

SLU DPT Class of 2013

Interests, Activities, Clubs, and Professional Organizations

Personal Development, Business & Finances, Sports Physical Therapy, The Beach!

Dr. Schwabe presenting at APTA Combined Sections Meeting.

If you could come back to SLU and teach a class, which class would you like to teach?

Sports Physical Therapy Seminar.  This class helped me start my vision of what was possible in sports PT. I would love to share my experiences with students.

Dr. Schwabe at the NFL Combine

What was the most valuable lesson — inside or outside the classroom — you learned at SLU?

What you become in the process is more important than the dream. My experience at SLU taught me that the person I was becoming and the struggle I endured was the most important part of my growth process as not only a person, but a health care provider.

Tell us about one of your professional accomplishments thus far.

Ignoring the traditional path of physical therapy and creating my own dream career.  While I wasn’t always the strongest academic test taker (despite the endless hours in the library), I always had a burning desire to excel and build a unique career in sports physical therapy.  I was fortunate that a few professors in SLU’s PT program believed in me and gave me a reference/opportunity to land a sports residency position with USC.  From there I worked hard, ignored the many naysayers, and created a dream career working as an out of network/cash based sports therapist working with athletes of all levels and traveling with entertainers and professional athletes.  

Dr. Schwabe during Concierge Performance Therapy services.

What advice do you have for students getting ready to graduate with their DPT?

Know that despite challenges our profession faces, there has never been a greater time to become a physical therapist, help more people than ever before, and build out the career you envision through hard work and perseverance.   

Is there anything else you would like to share?

My time at SLU was an incredible experience.  I am extremely grateful for the mentorship, support, and experiences at SLU. There is no doubt in my mind that without SLU I would never have accomplished what I have in my professional career.  

This is one of several posts featuring SLU PT Alumni experiences. The Saint Louis University Program in Physical Therapy wants to recognize the exciting and innovative things our alumni are doing, here in St. Louis and around the world. For more information for and about SLU alumni experiences go to: http://www.slu.edu/alumni-and-donors/.

SLU PT Student Jemma Kim had a Wonderful Clinical Experience at NorthShore University Health System at Sky Fitness Center in Buffalo Grove, IL

SLU Alums: Sierra Bugno, DPT, Sarah Levein, DPT, Sara Bayerle, DPT and SLU PT Student Jemma Kim

SLU PT Clinical Site Spotlight – NorthShore University Health System at Sky Fitness Center in Buffalo Grove, IL

By Jemma Kim  (Class of 2023)

My time at NorthShore at Sky Fitness has been absolutely wonderful. From the first day I knew that I was in good hands when I met my Clinical Instructor and SLU PT Alum, Sara Bayerle. Sara is an incredible teacher and even better physical therapist! She is so passionate about every single patient that we see and was excited to help me learn as much as I can in 10 weeks! I've grown in my skills of initial evaluations all the way to determining a plan of care for a patient. I've gotten to learn different exercises and grown tremendously in my manual therapy skills. I have felt so supported yet challenged in my growth as a student.

Thank you so much for making my 10 weeks so memorable! I have grown to love the profession of physical therapy so much in my time at Sky Fitness. Thank you for being a beam of light for our patients and for me as a student. Thank you for believing in me when I didn't believe in myself. :)

This is one of a series of posts by the Saint Louis University Program in Physical Therapy students featuring their clinical site and their clinical instructors. The number, quality, and diversity of clinical instruction are major assets for the SLU PT Program

SLU PT Student Veronica Harker Had a Great Clinical Experience at CORA Physical Therapy, South St. Louis County, MO

SLU PT Clinical Site Spotlight at CORA Physical Therapy in South St. Louis County, Missouri

By Veronica Harker (SLU DPT Class of 2023)

My first clinical experience was at Cora Physical Therapy - South County in St. Louis, MO. I was very excited to be at this location because my Clinical Instructor, Caitlin Whiteley, is a SLU PT alum and Cora has great learning opportunities for students. Two of my close friends were also at this location for their clinical at the same time as me. I felt like we were able to discuss treatments, ask questions, and learn from one another every day. The other PTs and PTA at this location were very welcoming and friendly. It was a great environment to learn in and my CI slowly increased my responsibilities as I became more comfortable and confident. She created a warm and inviting clinic and was great at building rapport with patients and coworkers. My CI was also the manager of the clinic, so I got to see some of the behind the scenes and leadership duties. Even though we hadn't started our classes yet, my CI taught me about documentation and other tips and tricks. I truly looked forward to coming to my clinical each day, and I will always remember the great memories and patients.

I would say thank you so much for being willing to have a student! I learned so much and the time flew by. Thank you for slowly increasing my responsibilities and always being available for feedback. You created a great environment for your coworkers, patients, and students. You were a great role model and communicator with patients. I cannot believe how much I have learned and grown as a student physical therapist thanks to you. I could not have asked for a better first clinical!

This is one of a series of posts by the Saint Louis University Program in Physical Therapy students featuring their clinical site and their clinical instructors. The number, quality, and diversity of clinical instruction are major assets for the SLU PT Program

SLU PT Alumna Rachel (Pollock) Condon (DPT Class of 2010) selected for promotion to Commander in the US Navy

SLU PT Alumni Spotlight - Rachel W. P. Condon, DPT, DSc, FAAOMPT, OCS, CSCS

Rachel (Pollock) Condon (DPT Class of 2010) has recently been selected for promotion to Commander in the US Navy. In her current role, she is the Associate Director of Clinical Support Services at Naval Medical Center San Diego. She oversees all of Rehabilitation Services, Radiology, Pharmacy, Laboratory Services, and Breast Health at the Navy’s largest hospital. She also serves as the Department Head of Physical Therapy, Occupational Therapy, and Chiropractic Services. She is also an assistant professor for the DPT program through Army/Baylor University as the intern director at the Naval Hospital.

She is married to Greg Condon (DPT class of 2012) and they have two wonderfully bright children ages 5 and 2.

You can find a previous spotlight on Condon on our blog.

This is one of several posts featuring SLU PT Alumni experiences. The Saint Louis University Program in Physical Therapy wants to recognize the exciting and innovative things our alumni are doing, here in St. Louis and around the world. For more information for and about SLU alumni experiences go to: http://www.slu.edu/alumni-and-donors/.

SLU PT Alumni Selected for APTA Missouri's First Centennial Scholar

DPT Class of 2018 Alumni, Beth Hughes, is selected to serve as APTA Missouri's First Centennial Scholar.  The APTA Centennial Scholars Program is designed to build a cadre of future association leaders at both the chapter/section/academy and national levels. 

Demonstrating APTA’s investment in the sustainability of the association as it begins its next 100 years, the program will support our collective quest for a diverse and prepared leadership pool. The 12-month program will run throughout 2021 with a goal of engaging 100 scholars, including the goal of at least one scholar sponsored by each of APTA’s chapters, sections, and academies. Congratulations, Dr. Hughes!  

To learn more about our Physical Therapy Program, visit https://catalog.slu.edu/colleges-schools/health-sciences/physical-therapy-athletic-training/physical-therapy-program/

SLU PT Students and Alumni Assist in New Hospital Move

Hospital Move! Thank you to the PY2s and alumni, Jamie Prus (DPT Class of 2020), who assisted in the hospital move yesterday. The new SSM Saint Louis University Hospital has sophisticated technology and design that supports and elevates our academic-medical partnership. And it has excellent views of the city.

To learn more about our Physical Therapy Program, visit https://catalog.slu.edu/colleges-schools/health-sciences/physical-therapy-athletic-training/physical-therapy-program/

SLU PT Students Connect with SLU PT Alumni at Clinical Site

SLU PT Students Julie Kregel and Maddie Tisdale (DPT Class of 2021) and Missouri State PT Student Erica Friebel connect with SLU PT Alumni Erin Wallen (DPT Class of 2017) and Brianne Ernst (DPT Class of 2014) at their clinical site, Concentra Medical Center - Midtown, St. Louis, Missouri.  

To learn more about our Physical Therapy Program, visit https://catalog.slu.edu/colleges-schools/health-sciences/physical-therapy-athletic-training/physical-therapy-program/

SLU PT Alumni Awarded in Academy of Acute Care Physical Therapy 2020 Awards

Congratulations to this year's Academy of Acute Care Physical Therapy 2020 Award Winners! Let's give a standing ovation to SLU Program in Physical Therapy alum, Dr. Traci Norris (Class of 2003) distinguished awardee of the Mary Sinnott Award for Clinical Excellence. 

To learn more about our Physical Therapy Program, visit https://catalog.slu.edu/colleges-schools/health-sciences/physical-therapy-athletic-training/physical-therapy-program/

SLU PT Alumni Spotlight - Julie Echsner Gahimer PT, HSD

SLU PT Alumni Spotlight - Julie Echsner Gahimer PT, HSD (Doctor of Health and Safety)

Professor of Physical Therapy, University of Indianapolis, Krannert School of Physical Therapy

Hometown: Columbus, IN
Current Town/City: Greenwood, IN

SLU PT Class of 1981

Interests, Activities, Clubs, and Professional Organizations

American Physical Therapy Association (Education and Neurology Sections), Health Volunteers Overseas, 2019-2020 Leadership Johnson County Class, Technology in Higher Education, a Certified Laughter Leader (CLL), Certified in Laughter Yoga, Volunteer at the Indiana University Student Outreach Clinic, International Service Learning Symposium Committee, Board Member at the Baxter YMCA, Faculty co-leader of Service Provision of rehabilitation service in Belize, 2019 co-leader of UIndy Spring Term trip to the Camino de Santiago, Spain, Catholic Charities Disaster Response Team, Mission trips with church and catholic high school, UIndy Healthy Diploma Coach, UIndy Christian Vocations Mentor.

Dr. Gahimer with colleagues Stephanie Combs-Miller and Connie Fiems attending the IVSTEP conference at Ohio State University in Columbus Ohio. July 2016

If you could come back to SLU and teach a class, which class would you like to teach?

I actually was fortunate enough to present a Health Promotion lecture to nursing students at the SLU Madrid campus several years ago when my daughter attended her sophomore year (2012) there.  I would love to teach a class on interprofessionalism or instructional design and delivery.

Dr. Gahimer with the Billiken during the bicentennial celebrations.

What was the most valuable lesson — inside or outside the classroom — you learned at SLU?

I learned the importance of community service and giving back. Quite a few members of my immediate family are SLU graduates as well.  Everyone has had the same experience.  My father received a Community Service Award from the SLU Medical School in 2016.  Quite an honor for him at 90 years of age.

A Poster Presentation at the International Symposium on Service Learning in Stellenbosh, South Africa 

What is your greatest professional accomplishment?

I actually have two that I cannot decide between.  The greatest professional accomplishments are receiving "The UIndy 2012 Teacher of Year Award" and "The 2017 UIndy Peter's Good Neighbor Award."

Dr. Gahimer receiving the Peter's Good Neighbor Award from UIndy in 2017

What advice do you have for students getting ready to graduate with their DPT?

"Be where your feet are" and "be present" in all interactions in and out of the clinic.
"If you love your work, you will never work a day in your life"

A Service Learning trip to San Ignacio, Belize in 2016.

Is there anything else you would like to share?

I have been teaching at UIndy since 1986.  This past year I have been granted a year-long sabbatical and recently spent a total of 4 weeks volunteering for an organization called Health Volunteers Overseas (HVO).  I taught physical therapy faculty and students at Da Nang University for Medical Technology and Pharmacy, in Da Nang, Vietnam. It was truly a professional and personal highlight of my physical therapy career. You can read more about that experience in the Daily Journal: http://www.dailyjournal.net/2019/02/26/local_professor_teaches_in_vietnam/

Students and faculty at Da Nang University

This is one of several posts featuring SLU PT Alumni experiences. The Saint Louis University Program in Physical Therapy wants to recognize the exciting and innovative things our alumni are doing, here in St. Louis and around the world. For more information for and about SLU alumni experiences go to: http://www.slu.edu/alumni-and-donors/.

SLU PT Alumni Spotlight - Carrie Hall, PT, MHS

SLU PT Alumni Spotlight - Carrie Hall, PT, MHS

President, Movement Systems Physical Therapy, P.S.

Hometown: Crystal Lake, IL
Current Town/City: Mercer Island, WA

SLU PT Class of 1983

Interests, Activities, Clubs, and Professional Organizations

American Physical Therapy Association, Physical Therapy Association of Washington, Arthritis Foundation, Puget Sound Spine Society, American Academy of Orthopedic Physical Therapy,  American Academy of Sports Physical Therapy, Health Policy and Administration Section, Private Practice Section, National Charity League

If you could come back to SLU and teach a class, which class would you like to teach?

My specialty is in examination and treatment of movement impairment syndromes in musculoskeletal patients, so I am thinking I would teach Examination/Evaluation of Orthopedic Conditions and Therapeutic Exercise. 

What was the most valuable lesson — inside or outside the classroom — you learned at SLU?

The Jesuit philosophy, and my specific teachers in the Program of Physical Therapy taught me how important it is to be of service to my community and that health care is a right for all human beings.

What is your greatest professional accomplishment?

I have two: founding and growing a private practice in physical therapy [Movement Systems Physical Therapy was founded in 1995], and writing a textbook "Therapeutic Exercise: Moving Toward Function" [Brody LT, Hall CM,  4e. Philadelphia: Lippincott Williams & Wilkins; 2018].

What advice do you have for students getting ready to graduate with their DPT?

You are a provider of primary care for neuromusculoskeletal conditions. It is your job to get that message out to the population.

Is there anything else you would like to share?

Everyone should have a physical therapist just as they have a dentist and a primary care MD. To manage population health, physical therapists must become recognized as movement specialists and the first entry into the health care system when the condition pertains to movement-related problems that affect their ability to participate in activities and social roles at meaningful levels. You are the only provider that combines the science of movement with the art of healing through movement-related interventions.  Let’s let everyone know!

This is one of several posts featuring SLU PT Alumni experiences. The Saint Louis University Program in Physical Therapy wants to recognize the exciting and innovative things our alumni are doing, here in St. Louis and around the world. For more information for and about SLU alumni experiences go to: http://www.slu.edu/alumni-and-donors/.

SLU PT Alumni Spotlight - Derek Fenwick, PT, MBA, GCS, SHRM-SCP

SLU PT Alumni Spotlight - Derek Fenwick, PT, MBA, GCS, SHRM-SCP

Director of Professional Development, Infinity Rehab

Hometown: Cape Girardeau, MO
Current Town/City: Portland, OR

SLU MPT Class of 2003

Interests, Activities, Clubs, and Professional Organizations

American Physical Therapy Association: APTA Nominating Committee, Leadership Development Committee, Post-Acute Care Work Group

Oregon Physical Therapy Association: OPTA Nominating Committee, past President, Vice President, Oregon Delegate to the APTA House of Delegates

See more at https://www.linkedin.com/in/derekfenwickpt/

If you could come back to SLU and teach a class, which class would you like to teach?

Strategic Human Resources (HR) for Health Care Professionals

What was the most valuable lesson — inside or outside the classroom — you learned at SLU?

If you see work that needs to be done and no one to do it, you're probably the right person for the job. I'm not even talking about big things; it is the day-to-day opportunities that you see to do the right thing and hold the space where others won't that can have the most lasting and positive change in the world. Don't worry that you won't do it right - making the effort to do it at all is good enough.

What is your greatest professional accomplishment?

Helping to create my own dream job. I am blessed to work for an organization that takes risks and innovates to tackle big business challenges. When the need to do more to support and engage our high-performing employees became clear within our company, I worked with our Vice President of Human Resources to craft a draft job description for a Director of Professional Development role focused on turning high-potential employees into influential leaders. Together we made the business case and got it funded. Now many years later, I have had the privilege of helping to build several key programs to address the clinical, management, and leadership needs of our company, and in the process have found an exciting career path in human resources that I would have never imagined possible during my time in PT school. 

What advice do you have for students getting ready to graduate with their DPT?

There will always be a job for a PT willing to take on a leader role in health care. Health care needs more leaders with clinical backgrounds. If the opportunity for management or other leadership presents itself early in your career and you've got a curiosity about it, take a chance and do it. You will be forever changed for the positive - and so will the patients you serve.

This is one of several posts featuring SLU PT Alumni experiences. The Saint Louis University Program in Physical Therapy wants to recognize the exciting and innovative things our alumni are doing, here in St. Louis and around the world. For more information for and about SLU alumni experiences go to: http://www.slu.edu/alumni-and-donors/.

SLU PT Alumni Spotlight - Elissa C. Held Bradford, PT, PhD, NCS, MSCS

SLU PT Alumni Spotlight - Elissa C. Held Bradford, PT, PhD, NCS, MSCS

Adjunct faculty/Assistant Professor; Physical Therapist
Saint Louis University; Mercy Therapy Services - Town & Country
Hometown: Hillsboro, MO
Current Town/City: St. Louis, MO

SLU MPT Class of 2002

Interests, Activities, Clubs, and Professional Organizations
Member of the American Physical Therapy Association; International Organization of Multiple Sclerosis Rehabilitation Therapists; National Multiple Sclerosis Society Healthcare Advisory Committee; Paraquad Health and Wellness Community Board

Co-chair of the Health Promotion and Wellness Task Force, Academy of Neurologic Physical Therapy

5th grade girls volleyball coach

I love being active outdoors, especially hiking and paddling.

If you could come back to SLU and teach a class, which class would you like to teach?
I am lucky enough to have done this. I have been assisting in several courses at SLU since 2007 as a laboratory instructor and lecturer. I am excited to be teaching full-time for academic year 2017-2018.

This just in! Elissa Held-Bradford, PT, PhD, NCS, MSCS, has agreed to join us next year in a full-time role for academic year 17/18 to oversee teaching assignments including coordinating Applied Neuroscience, Neurologic Physical Therapy Seminar, Pharmacology, and Neurological Conditions I.  She also will assist in other courses including Patient Management III and Neuropathology.

What was the most valuable lesson — inside or outside the classroom — you learned at SLU?
SLU taught me so many things as a student. One key lesson was communication. I learned the importance of listening and speaking so others feel heard and are respected. This has helped me be a better therapist, educator, researcher, and be a better person.

What is your greatest professional accomplishment?
To date, being involved with the Health Promotion and Wellness Task Force for the Academy of Neurologic Physical Therapy. It is exciting to feel a part of the momentum moving our field forward.
What advice do you have for students getting ready to graduate with their DPT?
You have chosen an amazing profession. Go leave the world a little better than you found it.

This is one of several posts featuring SLU PT Alumni experiences. The Saint Louis University Program in Physical Therapy wants to recognize the exciting and innovative things our alumni are doing, here in St. Louis and around the world. For more information for and about SLU alumni experiences go to: http://www.slu.edu/alumni-and-donors/.

SLU PT Alumni Spotlight - Rachel W. P. Condon, DPT, DSc, FAAOMPT, OCS, CSCS

SLU PT Alumni Spotlight - Rachel W. P. Condon, DPT, DSc, FAAOMPT, OCS, CSCS

Assistant Department Head, Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation
Naval Medical Center Portsmouth

United States Navy

Hometown: Chicago

Current Town/City: Norfolk, VA

SLU DPT Class of 2010

Interests, Activities, Clubs, and Professional Organizations

Orthopedic Physical Therapy, Manual Physical Therapy, Long Distance Running

If you could come back to SLU and teach a class, which class would you like to teach?

I would love to teach Musculoskeletal I or II and would really enjoy teaching manual therapy in lab

What was the most valuable lesson — inside or outside the classroom — you learned at SLU?

The most valuable lesson I learned was the importance of communicating with my patients in a patient-friendly manner that is easy for them to understand. Having good communication with my patients has helped me get good compliance with their treatment plan and improves the patient-provider relationship.

What is your greatest professional accomplishment?

My greatest professional accomplishment was completing my Doctor of Science and Fellowship in Orthopedic Manual Physical Therapy

What advice do you have for students getting ready to graduate with their DPT?

Be experts at the basics - the basics done really well can help any patient you see. Also, listen to your patients. A good subjective exam can lead you to a strong list of hypothesis of how to help the patient.

This is one of several posts featuring SLU PT Alumni experiences. The Saint Louis University Program in Physical Therapy wants to recognize the exciting and innovative things our alumni are doing, here in St. Louis and around the world. For more information for and about SLU alumni experiences go to: http://www.slu.edu/alumni-and-donors/.

SLU PT Alumni Spotlight - Carley Kirsch PT, DPT

SLU PT Alumni Spotlight - Carley Kirsch PT, DPT

Rehabilitation Director
Hillside Health Care International
Hometown: Hamilton, Ohio
Current Town/City: Punta Gorda, Belize

SLU DPT Class of 2011

Interests, Activities, Clubs, and Professional Organizations
International Public Health, Hillside Health Care International rehab committee

If you could come back to SLU and teach a class, which class would you like to teach?

If I could teach one class at SLU, I would teach Basic Exam. This was the first hands on class in our curriculum that made me fall in love with the profession. Although I spent many sleepless nights memorizing muscle origins and insertions, the foundational knowledge from that course has helped me to become the practitioner I am today.

What was the most valuable lesson — inside or outside the classroom — you learned at SLU?

The most valuable lesson I learned at SLU was being a true woman for others. I was raised in a family and community that values service, however SLU was the first place I was able to explore my own passion and love for assisting others. Participating in campus ministry service trips, make a difference day, Relay for Life, and Campus Kitchen allowed me to explore my ability to contribute to the community. In addition, the physical therapy clinical education team first introduced me to my lifelong love of international service by offering a clinical rotation at Hillside.

What is your greatest professional accomplishment?

My greatest professional accomplishment has been managing the rehabilitation department at Hillside Clinic in Punta Gorda, Belize. I spend my days serving the patients of the local community at our outpatient clinic and being welcomed into the homes our homebound community members. I also get the opportunity to collaborate with community members and other organizations to establish sustainable programs to provide a lifetime of care for our patients. One of the most gratifying aspects of my job is working with an interdisciplinary team of both students and professionals to provide optimal care to our patients.

What advice do you have for students getting ready to graduate with their DPT?

Be persistent and continue to make personal and professional goal for yourself. Even after graduation, take each day as a learning opportunity.

Your term as the Rehabilitation Director at Hillside Healthcare International ends soon. What can you tell us about your experience?

As the rehab director at Hillside, I have gained more from the community than I could ever repay. The relationships that I have made with staff, patients, community members, students, and other volunteers will last a lifetime. These are relationships and connections that I am excited to pass on to a future rehab director. Interested applicants can learn more information about the position by following this link: https://www.idealist.org/en/volunter-opportunity/12edf4425d8b4afda695dcfd0066db78-rehabilitation-director-hillside-health-care-international-eldridgeville

This is one of several posts featuring SLU PT Alumni experiences. The Saint Louis University Program in Physical Therapy wants to recognize the exciting and innovative things our alumni are doing, here in St. Louis and around the world. For more information for and about SLU alumni experiences go to: http://www.slu.edu/alumni-and-donors/.

SLU PT Alumni Spotlight - Lori Tuttle, PT, PhD

SLU PT Alumni Spotlight - Lori Tuttle, PT, PhD

Assistant Professor

San Diego State University

Hometown: Springfield, IL

Current City: San Diego, CA

SLU PT Class of 2004

Interests, Activities, Clubs, and Professional Organizations: 

Women's Health, Acute Care, APTA, American Urogynecology Association

If you could come back to SLU and teach a class, which class would you like to teach?

Probably Exercise Physiology--it had such an impact on my patient care when I practiced in Acute Care.

What was the most valuable lesson — inside or outside the classroom — you learned at SLU?

I learned that getting every question right on an exam isn't what makes you a good PT; your ability to connect with your patients and communicate with them is what will be more important than book knowledge.

What is your greatest professional accomplishment?

Being chosen as the Most Influential Faculty Member for the DPT graduating class of 2016 at San Diego State has been the highlight so far. It made me feel like I had made a connection with my students and that I would ultimately have an impact on clinical practice through them.

What advice do you have for students getting ready to graduate with their DPT?

I think it's important to be open to new opportunities that evolve in your practice--when I started out in PT school, I never would have predicted that I would love both Acute Care and Women's Health. Had I been closed-minded, I would have missed out on work that I love.

You can learn more about Dr. Tuttle's accomplishments here. Lori just received a fantastic score on an NIH R01 grant (score = 21, 9th percentile -- better than 91% of the applications submitted). This means it is very likely to get funded. Her project is called "An Innovative Rehabilitation Approach for Women with Anal Incontinence". It's a 5-year study with a $2.5 million budget. We couldn't be more proud of her. This is VERY hard to do!

This is one of several posts featuring SLU PT Alumni experiences. The Saint Louis University Program in Physical Therapy wants to recognize the exciting and innovative things our alumni are doing, here in St. Louis and around the world. For more information for and about SLU alumni experiences go to: http://www.slu.edu/alumni-and-donors/.