Doctor of Physical Therapy Program Celebrates Graduates

The Doctor of Physical Therapy Class of 2024 has finally arrived at the finish line. 

Twenty-six students received their diplomas and took the oath of a physical therapist during a completion ceremony on Aug. 23 in the DeSales University Center. Kay Malek, Ph.D., director of the program, applauded the graduates for their tireless work. 

“It goes without saying that their road has had its share of high and low points. But they pressed on and they worked together.” -Kay Malek, Ph.D., program director

Before the ceremony, graduates elected Adrian Anatalio ’21, D’24 to serve as class speaker. He recounted fun times the class has had over the past three years—from outside recesses to posing for photos while carrying one of their professors. He also told his fellow graduates how blessed and privileged he feels to be part of this class. 

“I am filled with gratitude for the education we have received in the DeSales DPT program,” Anatalio said. “When we see an 80-year-old or 6-year-old walk through the doors of our clinic, our focus is always on the person. … Let’s go forward and keep striving for excellence.” 

Congratulations to this year’s graduates and the following student award winners: 

• Professional Excellence Award: Olivia Miller D’24.
• Academic Excellence Award: Emily Renner D’24 and Olivia Miller D’24.
• Clinical Excellence Award: Adrian Anatalio ’21, D’24. 
• Research Excellence Award-Research Project: Karly Kaiser D’24, Michelle Lee D’24, David Mongeluzi D’24, Ashley Puia D’24, Meghan Quinn D’24, Alan Sprang D’24.
• Research Excellence Award-Individual Case Report: Allyson Badman D’24.
• Salesian Spirit Award: Christian Bryson ’21, D’24.
• The National Physical Therapy Student Honor Society Award: Adrian Anatalio ’21, D’24, Gina Elsayed D’24, Olivia Miller D’24, David Mongeluzi D’24, Mason Trauger ’22, D’24.
• The Pro Bono Network Honor Society Award: Gabriella Brandon D’24, Corinna Bartholomew D’24, Melissa Miller D’24, Andrew Poepoe D’24, Meghan Quinn D’24, Mason Trauger ’22, D’24.
• William A. Lavin Scholar Award: Olivia Miller D’24.