معرفی
Patrice E Ayala is an Assistant Professor in the Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) program at Midwestern University's College of Health Sciences-Glendale. She holds a PhD in Education (current pursuit) alongside degrees from Gonzaga University (B.S., 1998), Medical College of Pennsylvania Hahnemann (M.P.T., 2001), and A.T. Still University (D.P.T., 2008). Her research focuses on geriatric care innovations, including balance improvement through backward walking, Alzheimer’s practitioner training, and inclusivity in DPT admissions. She leads the MWU H.O.M.E. program’s Justa Center clinic for unsheltered older adults and serves on national task forces for senior athlete functional measures.
Education:
- Bachelor of Science in Exercise Science/Biology, Gonzaga University, 1998
- Masters in Physical Therapy, Medical College of Pennsylvania Hahnemann, 2001
- Doctor of Physical Therapy, A.T. Still University, 2008
- PhD in Education (in progress), emphasis on Educational Technology
Research Trends: Her work bridges geriatric physical therapy with educational technology, emphasizing clinical preparedness for neurodegenerative disorders and intergenerational curriculum design. Recent projects include a grant studying Arizona practitioners' readiness for Alzheimer’s/Dementia care (2022-2023).
Awards & Roles:
- Specialization Academy of Content Experts for Geriatric Specialty Exams
- National Senior Games Association Task Force Member
- Arizona State Co-Advocate for Academy of Geriatrics
Teaching & Advising:
- Course Director for Geriatric Rehabilitation, Clinical Competency Assessment, and Professional Roles
- Advisor for Student Government Association, DEI SIG, and Justa Center Clinic
- Co-Director for Clinical Experience I, II, III
Labs/Teams: Active in the Justa Center Student-Run Clinic in Phoenix, providing care to unsheltered older adults through MWU’s H.O.M.E. initiative.
