The College of Health Professions and Sciences’ Division of Physical Therapy was well-represented at the American Physical Therapy Association (APTA) Combined Section Meeting with recognitions presented to a faculty member, a student and two alumni.
Clinical Associate Professor Morris “Rick” Beato was honored with the Distinguished Mentor in Residency/Fellowship Education Award. Beato led the development of the UCF and Orlando Health Neurologic Residency Program and has served as the director since its inception. In this role, he has mentored residents in the areas of clinical care, didactic instruction, research, professional and community service. Beato, who has received multiple teaching awards, also has the distinction of being board certified in both neurologic and geriatric physical therapy.
Andrew Perez, a third-year physical therapy student, is an APTA Catherine Worthingham Fellow who received a $750 scholarship. It is presented to a total of six students around the nation who have contributed to the profession in a meaningful way. The award covered Perez’ costs to attend the meeting and provided the opportunity to participate in educational sessions with hundreds of experts from across the country.
Two alumni were presented with the Early Career Award from the Academy of Neurologic Physical Therapy, which supports new professionals who have already demonstrated early contributions in education, research, clinical practice or professional service. Uzair Hammad ’16 ’21DPT, who was also named among UCF Alumni’s 30 Under 30 in 2022 is a Neurologic Physical Therapist at Orlando Health Advanced Rehabilitation Institute. Jeffrey Schmidt ‘20DPT is an outpatient neurologic physical therapist at AdventHealth Sports Med and Rehab.
The meeting was held in San Diego, CA in February. The APTA is a leading national voice in the healthcare industry and serves as a professional resource for more than 100,000 members.
