YSU Physical Therapy faculty and students shine at APTA CSM conference in Houston

Five faculty members and 14 students from the YSU Doctor of Physical Therapy program attended the National Combined Sections Meeting of the American Physical Therapy Association in Houston.

Among the highlights of the event, students Olivia Donadee and Taylor Bednarcik presented a poster on “Overcoming Barriers to Exercise in Populations with Disabilities,” which earned a ribbon for Social Responsibility. Shannon Dudash, assistant professor, also presented a poster on “Developing an Effective Fall Preparedness and Recovery Program for Older Adults.”

Richard Haybarger, part-time faculty, was recognized with the Outstanding Site Coordinator for Clinical Education award from the Academy of Education. Nominated by YSU, Haybarger is the therapy coordinator at Mercy Health and was honored alongside faculty members Rebecca Riblet, AnnieTapp, Shannon Dudash and Nancy Landgraff.

In addition, students Collin Garnek and Anthony Dovidio delivered a platform presentation titled “GuinFit - Public Health Demonstration.”

The group’s efforts were further supported through the Student USE funds, the Dean's office and the program, which also sponsored registration for additional students in attendance. A highlight for the students was their success in a competition, winning the Final Frontier Board Prep course for their entire class.