This year’s APTA NC Student Conclave took place at Methodist University in Fayetteville, NC, where a total of 135 students from PT/PTA programs from across the state attended. In addition, 12 highly respected clinicians were present and spoke on topics about pelvic health, private practice, travel physical therapy, sports physical therapy, and more.
Duke DPT was well represented by first-year students Cierra Berry, Lytzy Hernandez, and Anna Smith. Second-years in attendance included Michelle Metzger and Dana Oakes, who are part of the Student Special Interest Group's (SSIG) Advocacy Project Committee, and Said Mendez, director of communications for the Student SIG. Also present was third-year Alyssa Bush, vice chair and SSIG Advocacy Project Committee leader.
Duke DPT alumni serving on the APTA NC Board of Directors including Pediatrics SIG Chair Victoria Lamb Smith, '07, Director of Payor Relations Marissa Araujo Carvalho, ‘12, Scholarship Committee Chair Moyo Aremu-Cole, ‘11, and Director of Communications Dr. Rosie Canizares, ‘07, also joined our school's contigency at the event for a board meeting.
Congratulations to second-year Kiara Smith, who was one of the inductees to this year’s DEI Student Hall of Fame. The DEI Student Hall of Fame showcases students from across the state who champion diversity, equity, and inclusion in their respective programs and communities.
Said Mendez had this to say about the his experience at the event:
"The APTA NC SSIG looks forward to hosting this event every year to provide students across the state with opportunities to network and gain skills in communication and leadership.
One thing I have noticed, from an SSIG board member perspective, is the support we receive from clinicians, NC DPT programs, and PT business leaders. Without their support, we as students would not be able to maximize our growth as future leaders. This year, we had about a 30 percent increase in students attending, and I have no doubt this will continue to grow.
From a Duke student perspective, I feel proud to be part of such an amazing DPT culture. Seeing my fellow classmates and Duke alumni at the conclave, many of them with roles on committees and in leadership, and receiving recognition for DEI work makes me feel honored to be part of something greater than myself.
Physical therapy is more than just helping patients; it is also about helping, supporting, and motivating your colleagues and classmates. I saw this in action at this year’s conclave, and I feel blessed to be part of APTA’s NC Chapter and Duke University’s DPT program."