DPT Newsroom

The Duke Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) and Occupational Therapy Doctorate (OTD) Class of 2028 gathered at the Mary Duke Biddle Trent Semans Center for Health Education to kick off their academic journey with a warm and inspiring welcome from leaders across the Duke School of Medicine.

As the Fall 2025 semester begins, Duke Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) student Alvin So shares his inspiring journey from international fencing competitions to the classroom and clinic. Featured in a conversation with Duke School of Medicine Dean Mary Klotman, MD, Alvin reflects on how a serious injury—and the care he received during recovery—sparked his passion for physical therapy.

As part of a broader effort to expand global health initiatives and establish new international partnerships, faculty members from Duke Orthopaedics and the Duke Global Health Institute traveled to Peru in May.

Duke Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) Class of 2028 student Nellie Del Carmen Blanco has been selected as a 2025 Rizing Tide Crest Scholar, a prestigious honor awarded to future physical therapists who demonstrate exceptional promise, leadership, and commitment to advancing the profession.

On June 26–27, Duke’s Occupational Therapy Doctorate (OTD) and Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) programs came together to host the 4th Annual High School ImpACT Program. We welcomed eight students from City of Medicine Academy and Hillside High School for two days of hands-on learning, exploration, and connection centered around health, wellness, and the impactful roles of OTs and PTs in our communities.

The Duke Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) program proudly hosted its 2025 Summer Discovery Program (SDP) from June 9 to 13, welcoming 20 undergraduate students from across the country for an immersive week of exploration, mentorship, and hands-on learning.

On June 6, 2025, students from the Duke Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) Class of 2026 gathered at the iconic Duke Chapel for their White Coat Ceremony—a milestone that marks the transition from classroom learning to hands-on clinical training. The event celebrated the students’ dedication and growth as they prepare to apply their academic knowledge in real-world healthcare settings.

Accessing rehabilitation services can be a significant challenge for individuals with neurological injuries. Insurance limitations, transportation barriers, and socioeconomic disparities often prevent people from receiving the continued care necessary for optimal recovery. Durham Neuro Camp, led by the Duke Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) Program, is bridging this gap through a no-cost, community-based neurorehabilitation program designed to empower participants and promote health equity.

The White Coat Ceremony marks a significant milestone for Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) students, symbolizing their transition into clinical practice and reaffirming their commitment to patient care and professional growth. On June 6, at Duke Chapel, the Class of 2026 will welcome Moyo Tillery, PT, DPT, OCS, as its keynote speaker—a distinguished leader in physical therapy and a proud Duke DPT alumna.

This past spring, Duke Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) students and faculty traveled to Washington, D.C., to participate in the American Physical Therapy Association (APTA)’s annual Day on the Hill—an initiative dedicated to amplifying the voice of physical therapy professionals in legislative discussions.