The Springfield College Department of Physical Therapy hosted its 25th annual Greene Memorial Lecture on Thursday, April 7, featuring Terry Ellis ’87, G’88, PT, PhD, FAPTA. Ellis featured her work and research as an associate professor and chair of the Department of Physical Therapy and Athletic Training at the Boston University College of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences.
“It was a privilege and an absolute joy to host Dr. Terry Ellis, one of our own, as this year’s Greene Lecturer,” said Springfield College Physical Therapy Professor Regina Kaufman, who is also a board-certified specialist in Neurologic Physical Therapy. “Her brilliance and unquenchable curiosity, coupled with her engaging and down-to-earth style, were inspiring to everyone in the room.”
Ellis engaged attendees with her research focusing on the impact of exercise and rehabilitation on the progression of disability in individuals with Parkinson disease.
“As a second-year student in the graduate program embarking on full time clinical experiences this summer and a subsequent career of clinical practice following graduation next year, listening to the paths of an accomplished physical therapist is inspiring,” said Allison Leary, DPT Class of 2023.
As part of her work, Ellis directs the American Parkinson Disease Association National Rehabilitation Resource Center, and she teaches examination and treatment of patients with neurological disorders within the Doctor of Physical Therapy Program. Ellis has a PhD in Behavioral Neurosciences from Boston University School of Medicine. In addition, she is a board-certified specialist in Neurologic Physical Therapy. She has published numerous articles and lectures internationally on topics related to rehabilitation in persons with Parkinson disease.
“The Greene Lecture is an event that the Springfield College physical therapy community looks forward to annually,” added Leary. “Following this event, I was invigorated by all of the possible directions my career path could take me after Springfield College, beyond even my current aspirations and into new adventures that I haven’t thought of yet.”
The Greene Memorial Lecture was initiated by Edwin Greene, a member of the Springfield College Class of 1935, in memory of his wife, Jean Greene. It is the premiere scholarly event of the Springfield College Department of Physical Therapy.
