Congratulations to our Awardees of 2025

Global Health SIG Dr. Ronnie Leavitt Award for Leadership in the Promotion of Social Responsibility
April Gamble , PT, DPT, CLT
This award recognizes leadership in promoting social responsibility through service, scholarship, and advocacy. April has made significant contributions in global health, founding the American Center for Rehabilitation and providing leadership in humanitarian rehabilitation efforts in conflict zones such as Kurdistan and Iraq. As Senior Health Advisor for UK-Med, April has integrated mental health services into physical rehabilitation in emergency settings, improving access to care for marginalized populations. Her capacity-building efforts have empowered local healthcare workers and created lasting, sustainable impacts in crisis areas.

Outstanding Service Award
Russell Stowers, PTA, EdD, FACHE, BCHE
This award honors outstanding contributions and leadership within the Academy and the physical therapy profession. Dr. Stowers has served in various leadership roles, including Clinical Manager, Program Director, and Associate Professor. His military leadership, community mentorship, and advocacy for physical therapy have had a lasting impact. He played a pivotal role in developing the Therapy Executive Certification and leading the LAMP School of Management. Dr. Stowers' dedication and vision have shaped healthcare leadership, making him a deserving recipient of this award.

R. Charles Harker, Esq. Policy Maker Award
Mercedes Aguirre Valenzuela, PT, DPT
This award recognizes those who have demonstrated exceptional leadership in state or national policy, influencing change or initiating policy shifts for the physical therapy profession. Mercedes has been a strong advocate, particularly through her role as Federal Affairs Liaison for APTA-ALI. She has helped secure significant policy support, including Rep. Mikie Sherrill’s cosponsorship of the Optimizing Postpartum Outcomes Act. Her social media advocacy (@theptadvocate) inspires others to engage in public service and advocacy, and her leadership extends to running for local office to support her community.

LAMPLighter Award
Kristin Walls, DPT
This award recognizes innovative leadership that expands the spirit of leadership within the physical therapy profession. Dr. Walls is a dynamic leader, known for her groundbreaking work in sports physical therapy, including serving as the head physical therapist for The Ohio State University Football Program. She has mentored emerging leaders through the OPTA’s Elevate mentorship program and LAMP Leadership courses. Additionally, as the Innovation Chair for ALI’s LAMP Leadership committee, Dr. Walls is transforming leadership education by incorporating technology and interactive learning. Her efforts have made significant strides in improving both sports and geriatric care.

Technology and Innovation Award
Todd Norwood, PT, DPT
This award recognizes significant contributions to technology and innovation in physical therapy. Dr. Norwood has been at the forefront of telehealth and digital care, advancing telerehabilitation and securing four U.S. patents. His work has enhanced patient engagement and collaboration through a HIPAA-compliant telehealth platform with a comprehensive exercise library and electronic medical records. Dr. Norwood’s contributions also include developing computer vision technology to assess joint range of motion. His innovations have played a vital role in shaping the future of virtual physical therapy and digital health.