Jun 25, 2025
Driven by purpose and impact
As Virginia’s top-ranked program, VCU Physical Therapy thrives because of the people who bring our mission to life: our students, faculty, alumni and community partners. In this issue, you’ll find powerful examples of how our commitment to innovation and service is transforming lives and shaping the future of our profession. These stories reflect the core values we hold as educators, clinicians and researchers.
From delivering hands-on care at the CARES Clinic to presenting original research, our students are leading with compassion and curiosity. You’ll meet inspiring faculty like Dr. Michael Kiefer and Dr. Tamara Buck, whose work, respectively, is improving outcomes for patients with rare diseases and underserved children. You’ll get to know Dr. Joe Wilkins, who spends a day each month as a PT while he serves as a hospital administrator. And you’ll read about Feather Wright, a U.S. Army Veteran who found a second calling in physical therapy. These are just a few of the voices helping us extend our reach and deepen our impact.
Our department continues to set the bar high. I hope these stories convey the vital role our program plays in the lives of our patients and the progress of our field. We appreciate your ongoing support as you share this incredible journey with us.
Benjamin Darter, PT. Ph.D.
Chair, Department of Physical Therapy
VCU College of Health Professions