Lewis University DPT

Congratulations to Kaylin Volling, SPT, Class of 2028, our June 2026 Lewis University DPT Outstanding Student Physical Therapist of the Month! We are proud to recognize your dedication, professionalism, and excellence.

Today’s P.I.E. Time features Dr. LaDarius (LD) Woods discussing social justice and the role of the physical therapy profession. Our students will be learning from the best as they reflect on access, equity, advocacy, and excellence in PT.

Today, we honor and remember the brave men and women who made the ultimate sacrifice for our country. May their courage and service remain forever in our hearts. Happy Memorial Day.

The Lewis University Doctor of Physical Therapy program was honored to volunteer at the 2026 Special Olympics in Joliet! 🏅✨

Our DPT students were grateful for the opportunity to support an event that celebrates ability, inclusion, determination, and community. Spending time alongside these inspiring athletes reminded us of the power of service, connection, and sport in promoting health and wellness.

Thank you to the athletes, families, volunteers, and organizers for allowing us to be part of such a meaningful experience.

Congratulations to Dr. Vitente on co-authoring this open-access article in BMC Medical Education on hybrid DPT students’ belonging, well-being, and program recommendations. This work supports student connection and success in DPT education.

🚨 A major change just dropped for future physical therapists and it’s not a good one.

On April 30, the Department of Education finalized a rule that reclassifies physical therapy programs, cutting federal student loan limits nearly in half.

What that means:

➡️ Annual borrowing drops from $50,000 to $20,500
➡️ Lifetime cap drops from $200,000 to $100,000

At a time when we’re already facing healthcare workforce shortages, this creates a new barrier for students trying to enter the profession.

There is movement to fix it. Bipartisan legislation has already been introduced to correct this and protect access to PT education.

Now it needs support.

📣 Take 2 minutes to contact your members of Congress and urge them to back: H.R. 6574, H.R. 6677/S. 4039, and H.R. 6718

This isn’t just about loans. It’s about who gets to become a PT, and who doesn’t.

🔗 https://bit.ly/4w3KA0R

Congratulations to Dr. Robert Sweet, PT, DPT, OCS, FAAOMPT, on his appointment as Assistant Program Director of the Lewis University DPT Program. We are grateful for his leadership, service, and continued commitment to our students and faculty.

Dr. Vitente will be available in one of the tutorial rooms (SH-142 and SH-144) from May 4–8, 8 AM–5 PM, for student chats, anatomy review, general support, or even a quick conversation to ease pre-finals nerves. Please take advantage of this opportunity!

Congratulations to Dr. Colleen Hanlon, PT, DHSc, MA, OCS, on her appointment as Director of Assessment for the Lewis University DPT Program. We are grateful for her leadership, expertise, and commitment to student success.

Congratulations to Dakota Straight, SPT, Class of 2028, our May 2026 Lewis University DPT Outstanding Student Physical Therapist of the Month! Your dedication, professionalism, and commitment to growth represent the very best of our DPT community.