Samford University School of Health Professions

Hands-on learning in action 👏

Earlier this month, our Doctor of Physical Therapy program welcomed guest speakers Johnnie Burnette, DPT, and Jesse Dunn Bagley, DPT, from HealthActions for a dynamic manual therapy course.

Students in the Class of 2027 gained hands-on, head-to-toe techniques, building skills to better serve future patients—and seeing immediate results along the way.

We’re grateful for clinical partners like HealthActions who invest in the next generation of physical therapists!

Thinking about a career in physical therapy? Join us for the Doctor of Physical Therapy Open House on campus this June.

Meet faculty, explore our facilities, and learn how Samford’s DPT program prepares students for meaningful, hands‑on careers in health care.

Register by clicking the link in the comments!

It may be summer, but our first-year Physician Assistant Studies students aren’t slowing down.

This week, they’re in our Simulation Center practicing patient assessments—building real-world skills through hands-on learning.

It’s just one of the many ways our students gain experience before entering clinical practice. See how our acute care simulations bring learning to life: https://bit.ly/4es8ScP

An informal alumni gathering for Samford’s Department of Physical Therapy brought together students from the classes of 2026, 2025, 2023, 2020 and 2019, along with faculty and staff, for a time of community and fellowship.

We love hearing stories from our students—both current and graduates—and how their training carries into real-world practice. Earlier this spring, PA graduate Maranda Rein, PA-C, shared this experience:

“This is like sim… but it’s real this time.”

Just days into her fellowship, Maranda led her first code in the ICU, relying on the training, repetition and teamwork she developed during her time at Samford University.

From simulation lab to high-acuity patient care, her experience reflects the importance of hands-on preparation, clinical confidence and resilience in action.

We are proud to play a role in preparing clinicians for the moments that matter most. 💙

What does it look like to care for patients and support students through illness, loss and uncertainty?

For Dana Blake, DPT, professor and director of clinical education in Samford University’s Doctor of Physical Therapy program, it means going beyond clinical expertise—bringing faith, compassion and presence to those she serves.

Those experiences led Blake to co-author The Crucible of Illness with Birmingham physician Robert D. Marks. Rooted in her belief that physical healing and spiritual care go hand in hand, the book invites readers to discover purpose, hope and community in the midst of suffering.

👉 Read more about her story and the heart behind the book.

https://www.samford.edu/healthprofessions/news/2026/Samford-Physical-Therapy-Professors-New-Book-Explores-the-Intersection-of-Faith-and-Healing

Class of 2028 Baby Lab with the Physical Therapy Department! 🍼👶

Students, faculty and alumni joined the Physical Therapy Department as we explored motor milestones with babies and toddlers. The day included Goldfish, cartwheels and lots of fun. The day was full of sweet smiles and giggles during one of our favorite events! 💙❤️

Celebrating Excellence in the School of Health Professions!

We are proud to recognize outstanding faculty whose work reflects a deep commitment to teaching, mentoring, scholarship, service and collegiality—living out 1 Peter 4:10 in meaningful ways.

Kelly Atkins, DPT
Excellence in Graduate Teaching: Clear, engaging instruction that makes complex concepts accessible

Susan Wilbanks, Kinesiology
Excellence in Undergraduate Teaching: Creative, student-centered learning with innovative methods

Haley Cochran-Gill, DPT
Excellence in Student Mentoring: Intentional guidance supporting academic, personal and spiritual growth

Scott Bickel, DPT
Excellence in Scholarship: Impactful research and strong support of colleagues’ scholarly development

Rob Hensarling, Office of Interprofessional Education
Excellence in Service: Dedicated leadership and meaningful contributions across the university

R. Mark Caulkins, DPT
Excellence in Collegiality: Collaborative spirit that strengthens programs and relationships

Angie Barber, CSDS
1 Peter 4:10 Award
Honors a faculty member who faithfully uses their gifts to serve others, demonstrating Christ-centered leadership and impact across SHP and beyond.