DPT Students Showcase Research at Annual Symposium
More than 200 guests filled the DeSales University Center for the 2025 Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) Research Symposium, an annual event celebrating student research and innovation within the College of Healthcare Professions.
The symposium featured 12 student-led research projects, including eight platform presentations that explored a range of clinical and educational topics, from improving mobility in patients with Parkinson’s disease to reducing implicit bias in healthcare training.
“The symposium is an inspiring showcase of what our students can achieve when they combine clinical curiosity with scientific rigor,” said Ethan Hood, D.P.T., Ed.D., program director for the Doctor of Physical Therapy program. “Our students’ research showcases both their academic excellence and their commitment to improving the lives of the patients they’ll serve as physical therapists.”
More than 30 area clinicians attended to earn continuing education credits, and another 30 participants joined online, expanding the event’s reach beyond campus.
Among this year’s platform presentations were studies examining experiential learning in pediatric physical therapy, therapy frequency following distal radius fractures, and strategies for preparing future clinicians for end-of-life care. Other projects focused on rehabilitation approaches for complex conditions skull-base chordomas, and the effects of high-intensity training after radiation treatment.
“Presenting at the symposium helped me gain confidence in sharing our research with professionals who really understand the field,” said Hailey Figliola, SPT ’26, who researched distal radius fractures as part of a team. “It prepared me for larger conferences where I’ll be presenting next, and it reinforced how meaningful our work can be.”
The event highlighted how DeSales DPT students are translating classroom learning into real-world impact, conducting research that informs better patient care, strengthens professional collaboration, and reflects the University’s Salesian values.
Learn more about the Doctor of Physical Therapy program at DeSales University and how our students are advancing the future of healthcare through research, service, and innovation.