Norman Belleza

Norman Belleza, PT, DPT, PhD is an Associate Professor at Hawai'i Pacific University’s Graduate College of Health Sciences – Department of Physical Therapy. Previously, he served as Founding Director of Interprofessional Education at the University of St. Augustine for Health Sciences (USAHS) from 2014–2024, overseeing five-state academic operations. His career includes leadership roles such as Co-Chair of USAHS’s College of Health Professions and Founding Program Director for South University’s PTA program.

Education:

• Doctor of Philosophy in Education (specialization: Learning, Instruction, Innovation), Walden University
• Doctor of Physical Therapy, Temple University
• Master of Physical Therapy and BS in Life Sciences, Loma Linda University
• Associate of Arts in General Studies/Pre-PT, Washington Adventist University

Dr. Belleza specializes in interprofessional education (IPE) and healthcare simulation, focusing on teamwork, competency development, and innovation in healthcare education. His research explores how simulations enhance clinical decision-making and interprofessional collaboration, particularly in pandemic-driven virtual learning environments.

Key Academic Contributions:

• Recipient of the 2022 USAHS Scholarship Symposium Award and 2019 Excellence in Innovation Award
• Authored/co-authored peer-reviewed articles on IPE frameworks, simulation-based training, and pandemic-era educational adaptations
• Contributed to National Physical Therapy Examination and Board Review textbook (2019)

His work bridges clinical practice, academic leadership, and policy advocacy, emphasizing IPE’s role in preparing future healthcare leaders. Current initiatives at HPU focus on hybrid program models integrating innovative teaching methods.