A three-year partnership between University of Lynchburg and Centra has resulted in significant financial backing for the College’s Doctor of Physical Therapy Program. In 2010, Centra donated $250,000 to help pay for facility and equipment costs and pledged an additional $250,000 when the program received full accreditation.
The College received accreditation April 24, 2013 from the Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education (CAPTE) and graduated its first class of 44 students in May. Fulfilling the pledge, Centra presented a $250,000 check to University of Lynchburg on July 2.
In presenting the check to LC President Dr. Kenneth Garren, Centra President and CEO E. W. Tibbs said, “Historically, physical therapists have been hard to recruit. It is a very demanding occupation, and this program allows us to be involved in their training and mentoring. We are excited to be a part of this program with University of Lynchburg.”
“I am most grateful to Mr. Tibbs for this financial assistance and for the tremendous leadership that Centra and Centra administration and personnel have shown in the development of University of Lynchburg’s Doctor of Physical Therapy program,” said Dr. Garren. “I am so pleased that the College has completed the requirements for receiving this final gift of support from Centra. I receive this gift with deep gratitude, for it is clear to me that Centra’s strong support has been critical to the success of our program.”
The Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) Program is a three-year graduate program that prepares students desiring to enter the physical therapy profession. Established in partnership with the regional healthcare community, the DPT program is designed to meet the growing demand for physical therapists.
