معرفی
Matthew A. Nuciforo serves as Chairperson and Program Director for the Department of Physical Therapy and Associate Dean of Admissions and Enrollment in the College of Health Professions at Rosalind Franklin University of Medicine and Science. He is an Associate Professor with credentials including PT, DPT, PhD, OCS, FAAOMPT, demonstrating his expertise in both clinical practice and academic leadership.
His educational background includes:
- Doctor of Philosophy in Educational Policy and Leadership from Marquette University
- Doctor of Physical Therapy from University of Indianapolis
- Master of Physical Therapy from Marquette University
- Bachelor of Arts in Pre-Physical Therapy and Criminology and Law from Marquette University
Dr. Nuciforo is a Board Certified Orthopedic Clinical Specialist and a Fellow of the American Academy of Orthopaedic Manual Physical Therapists. His primary teaching emphasis is in musculoskeletal system/orthopedics and manual therapy, though his research has increasingly focused on admissions processes in physical therapy education. As a recognized leader, he previously chaired the ACAPT Admissions Task Force and currently serves on the ACAPT National Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion Commission, which establishes anti-racist policies to increase representation of racial and ethnic minorities. Dr. Nuciforo completed the APTA Fellowship in Higher Education Leadership in 2024 and serves on the Editorial Board for the Journal of Physical Therapy Education.
Dr. Nuciforo's research portfolio demonstrates a strong focus on equity and merit in physical therapy education admissions. His work examines how social constructions of merit impact admissions decisions, particularly regarding underrepresented minority applicants. He has conducted extensive research on holistic review processes, Multiple Mini-Interviews, and the role of standardized testing in admissions. His more recent work has expanded to include examinations of transgender student experiences and physical therapy management for pregnant/postpartum individuals, showing an evolving commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion across multiple dimensions.
His significant contributions have been recognized through several prestigious awards:
- APTA Academy of Education Stanford Award (February 2025)
- Rosalind Franklin Award for Excellence in Service to the University (May 2022)
- College of Health Professions Outstanding Faculty Colleague Award (September 2020)
- College of Health Professions Award for Excellence in Service (April 2013)
As Chair of the Department of Physical Therapy and Associate Dean of Admissions and Enrollment, Dr. Nuciforo oversees academic functions while shaping institutional admissions policies. His leadership extends nationally through ACAPT, where he influences admissions practices across physical therapy programs. His work with the National Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion Commission focuses on establishing anti-racist policies to increase representation of racial and ethnic minorities in the profession. Dr. Nuciforo has mentored numerous students and colleagues, contributing to the development of future physical therapy educators and practitioners.
