Academy Celebrates First Class of Board Certified Healthcare Executives

APTA Academy of Leadership and Innovation, a component of the American Physical Therapy Association, proudly announces the recent board certification of a distinguished group of individuals as Healthcare Executives. This prestigious designation is awarded to those who have demonstrated a commitment to excellence in healthcare leadership and management.

The rigorous certification process includes comprehensive coursework, practical experience, and a stringent examination, ensuring that all certified executives meet the highest standards of professional competence.

The following newly certified Healthcare Executives are now part of an elite group of professionals recognized for their strategic acumen and visionary leadership. The certification empowers them to navigate the challenges of modern health care, implement effective change, and achieve sustainable results.

The Academy congratulates the following individuals on their achievement:

• Chaitali Ahya, PT, DPT

• Geoffrey Cariker, PT, DPT

• John Corcoran, PT, DPT, MS

• Denise Cortes, PT, DPT, MBA

• Holly Cox, PT, DPT

• Sarah Cwiak, PT, DPT

• Brian Hull, PT, DPT, MBA

• Susan Jeno, PT, PhD

• Kelly Kempesta, PT, MBA

• Cullen Lane

• Jacklyn Lipski

• Holly Neel, PT

• Caroline Nickel

• Susan Ropp, PT, DPT

• Russel Stowers, PTA, EdD

• Eleazar Tayag, PT, DPT, MPH

• Nandina Ustaris, PT, DPT

• Kristin Walls, PT, DPT

• Sarah Williamson, PT, DPT

These exceptional individuals will be recognized for their hard work, dedication, and unwavering commitment to advancing the field of health care during a certification ceremony held Feb. 14, 2025, in Houston, TX, as part of the APTA Combined Sections Meeting.

For more information about the Board Certified Healthcare Executive designation, or to inquire about the certification process, please contact Heather Outhuse at houthuse@aptaali.org.