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Each year, ÃÛÌÒÓ°Ïñ physical therapy alumnus Dr. Sam Ward funds an annual graduating student award for excellence in biomechanics. The Excellence in Biomechanics Scholarship recipient this year went to Kendall Hart (ÃÛÌÒÓ°Ïñ DPT '26), a promising physical therapy student, who among other exploits, loves surfing, competing in triathlons, and who is passionate about making a difference in other people's lives. CHHS sat down with Kendall to learn a little more about her journey and what's ahead for her beyond PT school.  

 

CHHS: How excited are you and what does it mean to you to be named the recipient of the Excellence in Biomechanics Scholarship?

 

Kendall Hart: When I learned that I had been selected as the recipient of the Excellence in Biomechanics Scholarship, I was deeply honored and profoundly grateful for Dr. Ward’s generosity in making this award possible. Earning any scholarship is a privilege, but receiving this recognition among such talented and accomplished peers makes it especially meaningful. To me, biomechanics is the foundation of physical therapy—essential for understanding, analyzing, and treating patients effectively. Being recognized for excellence in this area not only affirms my dedication to the field, but also inspires me to continue advancing my knowledge and skills to better serve my patients.

 

CHHS: What are your career aspirations within PT? Do you have any subspecialities/interests or niche skills you’d like to pursue?

 

Kendall Hart: My career aspirations within Physical Therapy are still evolving, but I have a strong passion for orthopedics, as it is where my journey began even before becoming a DPT student. At the same time, my experience in our on-campus Neurologic pro-bono clinic has opened my eyes to the unique challenges and rewards of treating patients with neurologic conditions. Co-treating in the pro-bono clinic with my classmates has given me the opportunity to develop creative, patient-specific interventions, as no two neurologic cases present the same. I find the neurologic field both fascinating and intellectually stimulating—the variety of potential interventions feels endless, and the process of collaborating with patients to help them achieve their goals is deeply meaningful.

 

Beyond neurologic and orthopedic specialties, I do not have a defined niche I am keen to pursue within Physical Therapy at this time. However, outside of the profession, I do have a clear passion: environmental conservation. As an avid surfer, I care deeply about the ocean and the impact humans have on this vital ecosystem. I believe that if we do not change how we treat it, we risk causing irreversible harm. Post-graduation, I hope to combine my professional career with my environmental interests by joining a coral-reef restoration initiative, working to replant and protect coral reefs for future generations.

 

CHHS: How do you think this scholarship will help you in your journey? 

 

Kendall Hart: This scholarship fuels my commitment to becoming the best student clinician I can be in this final year of the DPT program that I have left. This recognition reinforces my passion for biomechanics—and, by extension, orthopedics—and motivates me to continue expanding my knowledge and skills to provide the highest quality care for my current and future patients. With this added financial support, I can focus on advancing my expertise so I can deliver exceptional, evidence-based care and make a lasting impact in the lives of my patients.