Duke University Hosts APTA North Carolina’s 9th Annual Student Conclave
APTA North Carolina was proud to host its 9th Annual Student Conclave at Duke University this month, welcoming more than 170 students representing nine Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) programs and four Physical Therapist Assistant (PTA) programs from across the state. Held in Duke’s Interprofessional Education (IPE) Building, the one‑day conference brought together future clinicians for professional development, networking, and conversations focused on the evolving future of healthcare.
Made possible through the generous support of local sponsors, the annual Student Conclave provides DPT and PTA students with the opportunity to connect in person with leaders in the field, learn from experienced clinicians, and engage with professional organizations that shape physical therapy practice in North Carolina and beyond. This year’s gathering reflected the strength and momentum of the profession, as well as the value of collaboration and student leadership.
The Duke DPT and Duke Health communities were well represented, with alumni, faculty, residents, clinicians, and current students playing a central role throughout the program. A special thank-you goes to our featured Duke-affiliated speakers and panelists—Brooke Womack’12, Josh Copeland’25, Said Mendez’25, Elizabeth Nixon, Stephanie Palacios, Lindsay Lloyd, Elizabeth Van De Mark, Gary Johnson, and Faculty Development Residency Rob Farrell for generously sharing their insights, experiences, and professional journeys.
We were also honored to welcome Tiffany Adams, PT, PhD, DPT, MBA, assistant professor of Orthopaedic Surgery, director of Leadership and Organizational Culture, as this year’s keynote speaker. Her message resonated deeply with attendees, offering perspective and encouragement as students prepare to enter a dynamic and rapidly changing healthcare landscape.
The success of the Student Conclave reflects the dedication of student and professional leaders alike. I am especially grateful to my peers serving in leadership roles within APTA North Carolina’s Student Special Interest Group, including Co‑Directors of Student Involvement Elizabeth Liriano ’26 and Zariah Scales ’27, and Co‑Director of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Lytzy Hernandez ’26. Their commitment to enhancing the student experience was evident throughout the event.
We also thank the many Duke alumni who serve on the APTA North Carolina Board, including Treasurer Erik Carvalho’11, Director of Payer Relations Marissa Araujo Carvalho’12, Director of Communications Rosie Canizares’07, and Pediatric SIG Chair Victoria Lamb Smith’07. Their continued engagement and leadership play a vital role in supporting and mentoring the next generation of physical therapy professionals.
A meaningful milestone of this year’s Conclave is its connection to Duke’s history with the event. The first Student Conclave in 2018 was hosted at Duke University under the leadership of then‑APTA NC SSIG Chair and current APTA President, Kyle Covington, PT, DPT, PhD. Seeing how the Conclave has grown since that inaugural year—and how it continues to inspire students across North Carolina—highlights the lasting impact of student involvement and professional community.
APTA North Carolina is proud to continue this tradition, and Duke University was honored to once again serve as host. Events like the Student Conclave not only strengthen professional identity but also reinforce the shared commitment to collaboration, leadership, and excellence in patient care.
