The physical therapy department at the Health Science Center will celebrate the success and growth of the department and, this year, the 33 students in the 25th graduating class.
“We are proud to be celebrating the 25th graduating class,” said Giovanni De Domenico, Ph.D., professor and chair of the physical therapy department. “Our program has faced several changes and challenges over the years and the results have been outstanding.”
Dr. De Domenico emphasized the all-around growth of the department since the first class was enrolled in 1978, when the only degree offered was a Bachelor of Science in physical therapy. In 1995, the degree plan became a Master of Science in physical therapy, and in 2000, the physical therapy department became fully accredited.
“The number of Hispanic students enrolled has grown significantly,” Dr. De Domenico said. “Forty percent of the graduating class this year is Hispanic. A main mission of this university is to serve the people of South Texas and I’m glad to see the department growing in Hispanic enrollment.”
The department attracts many individuals from the Rio Grande Valley. They are naturally attracted to the physical therapy program at the Health Science Center, Dr. De Domenico said. South Texas benefits because many students return to the Valley upon graduation to practice physical therapy, producing role models for other South Texas residents.
Sylvia Rodriguez of Laredo, graduating physical therapy student, has faced numerous obstacles in her academic career but has managed to overcome them with her dedication.
“I’ve always desired to be successful, but one of my greatest challenges was finding proper funds to further my education,” Rodriguez said. She grew up the oldest of five children, and although she was never encouraged to attend college, her family supported her decisions and encouraged her to live her dreams.
After graduating as salutatorian from high school, Rodriguez joined the Texas Army National Guard to help fund her education. Through the Guard, she was able to get her education at Texas A&M International University, where she graduated as valedictorian, and received several scholarships for her achievement. She recently completed basic training and was promoted to sergeant.
“I was able to go to school and serve my country,” Rodriguez said. “Graduating from the physical therapy program is a personal triumph for me. I never thought I would come this far.”
Rodriguez will return to Laredo after graduation, to work at the Laredo Medical Center as a physical therapist in acute care.
Dr. De Domenico said as the program progresses, he hopes the Hispanic enrollment will continue to grow.
“We don’t want a lack of money to play a part in enrollment,” Dr. De Domenico said. “An alumni association was recently established, and scholarships will hopefully be more readily available for those individuals who need them.”
The annual graduation banquet for the class of 2005 will take place May 20. Students will invite family and friends to come to an open house and a nostalgic presentation.
“This will be the last time the students are all together in an informal setting,” Dr. De Domenico said. “The banquet will celebrate the times the students had with each other as well as with faculty and staff; and a lot of emotions will be involved as we say goodbye to this outstanding group of individuals.”
