Hanover’s second physical therapy commencement marks first in College history
The Hanover College Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) program’s Class of 2024 has already secured its place in the institution’s nearly 200-year history.
Degrees were conferred to 92 students in DPT’s graduating class August 16 in Collier Arena. While the commencement was just the second in the hybrid program’s brief existence, the ceremony stands as the first in Hanover history held solely for doctoral students.
Ceremony Video / Photo Gallery / Recap Video / Commencement Program
Hanover President Lake Lambert offered greetings to the members of the graduating class, as well as a large gathering of family members, faculty and staff.
“Today, we celebrate that you have claimed your calling and that you will leave us to be healthcare practitioners and healers,” stated Lambert. “You have gained expertise in treating illness, irregularities and problems, but I hope you will always look holistically at the care and treatment of the people over the problems. This is what distinguishes a healer.”
Rodney Ramos Marquez DPT ’24 served as class speaker. In an emotional address, Marquez acknowledged the value of family inspiration and support throughout the group’s two-year academic journey.
“It took countless hours of studying and sleepless nights, a lot of moments of doubt,” said Marques. “We sacrificed time with loved ones, hobbies and, sometimes, our own mental health, knowing that there is only one goal in mind at the end of the tunnel; to be the best version we can be in our professional lives. A profession that, at the end of the day, [is] to help others in need.”
Academic Excellence Awards, denoting the Class of 2024’s top scholars, were presented to Haley Gutermuth DPT ’24, Amberly Hudson DPT ’24, Adam Pangborn DPT ’24, Samuel Poling DPT ’24 and Ian Ruybalid DPT ’24. Marquez earned the Service Excellence Award and Student Impact Award. Wyatt Amdahl DPT ’24 received the Clinical Excellence Award.
Jeffrey Studds ’77, president of the Alumni Leadership Council, welcomed graduates to the Hanover College Alumni Association.
“Being an alum of Hanover College means you are forever linked to the liberal arts tradition that exists in every class you took. It urges you to make the most of your graduate studies and challenges you to continue your education long after today,” noted Studds. “The Hanover College community is made up of more than 13,000 Hanoverians who will be rooting for your future successes and ready to help you meet your next goals.”
Chelsea Leigh Ann Merz DPT ‘24 closed the ceremony with a powerful solo performance of “The Alma Mater.” The song, traditionally performed at Hanover commencements, was written by legendary composer Meredith Willson with lyrics by Katharine McAfee Parker, wife of former Hanover President Albert Parker (1929-58).
