YSU DPT students, faculty present research, earn national recognition at APTA Combined Sections Meeting

Twenty-eight Doctor of Physical Therapy students and six faculty members from Youngstown State University represented the university at the American Physical Therapy Association 2026 Combined Sections Meeting, held Feb. 12-14 in Anaheim, California.

During the national conference, Weiqing Ge, professor in the Doctor of Physical Therapy program, received the Ronnie Leavitt Award for Leadership and Promotion of Social Responsibility, recognizing his outstanding contributions to the profession and a commitment to advancing social responsibility in physical therapy.

YSU students presented research on multiple topics, including “Bridging the Gap: DPT Student Experiences with High-Intensity Gait Training in Education and Practice” and “Perceptions of Fall Prevention in Older Adult Populations Screened Using the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention STEADI Toolkit.”

Participation in the conference required extensive preparation, including research development, presentation planning, award submissions and fundraising initiatives to support attendance. Faculty and students described the experience as one marked by meaningful learning opportunities, professional networking and collegial engagement.

“CSM was such a rewarding experience,” said Abby Discher, Co-Vice President - 2026 DPT Class. “I attended sessions that expanded my knowledge in topics that I knew I was interested in, as well as discovered new ideas that I never thought I would find so engaging. It was exciting – and so surreal – to realize how much I have learned throughout my time here at YSU.”

Students said the national conference environment not only highlighted the scope of the profession but also reinforced their readiness to enter the field and contribute meaningfully to patient care and research.

“It was an incredible experience,” said Josh Sanders, DPT student. “Being surrounded by people who are so passionate about physical therapy truly inspired me and reinforced my excitement as I step into this profession.”

The Combined Sections Meeting is one of the largest physical therapy conferences in the country, bringing together educators, researchers, clinicians and students to share best practices and emerging research in the field.

To learn more visit the YSU Doctor of Physical Therapy program website.