Physical Therapy Awards

Exceptional physical therapy student leaders are recognized by the following awards:

Donna J. Calvert Award for Outstanding Professionalism and Communication

Donna J. Calvert, PT, Ph.D. was one of the co-founders of the Physical Therapy Education Department at Rockhurst University.  She began her employment at Rockhurst University in May of 1983 and was the first Academic Coordinator of Clinical Education in addition to her faculty responsibilities.  Dr. Calvert was instrumental in identifying the need for a specific program intended to enhance the formation of students’ professional characteristics. Subsequently, she designed and implemented a multimodal program of professional development for all physical therapy students at Rockhurst. Dr. Calvert resigned from the faculty in May of 2003 as a tenured, Full Professor. Her contributions to this aspect of student development have prepared our graduates to meet the challenges of professionalism and communication in clinical practice. The purpose of this award is to recognize a student who exhibits superior professional behaviors and communication skills during his/her time in the Physical Therapy Education Program.

Ellen Spake Award for Outstanding Leadership

Ellen Spake, PT, Ph.D. was one of the co-founders of the Physical Therapy Education Department in 1983.  For 20 years, from 1983 until 2003, she served as the Director of the Physical Therapy Education Program. Her vision and leadership skills led the department in the curricular evolution from a bachelor’s degree, through a masters’ program and into the present Doctor of Physical Therapy degree. The purpose of this award is to recognize a student who exhibits superior leadership skills during his/her time in the Physical Therapy Education Program.

Catherine Rush Thompson Magis Award

This award was initiated in 2007 to recognize students who have exemplified the concept of “magis” (more) during their time in the program. It was renamed in 2019 to honor Dr. Catherine Rush Thompson, a faculty member in the Rockhurst DPT program who exemplified magis through her dedication to her students and colleagues and the program.  This award is given when faculty agree that one or more students in the graduating class have consistently demonstrated generous excellence and commitment to others.  Students considered for this award have a strong record of meaningful contributions to the program, profession, and/or community. 

Lampe-Loescher Award

The Lampe-Loescher Award was created by Gerry Lampe, PT and Lou Loescher, PT. Jerry and Lou were members of the original advisory group who worked with Rockhurst University in the establishment of the physical therapy education program. The award is given annually to a graduating student who exemplifies exceptional leadership and service while in the physical therapy program and the potential for exceptional leadership and service to the profession.

Jean Hiebert Award for Outstanding Academic Performance

Jean Hiebert, PT, PhD co-founded the RU Department of Physical Therapy Education in 1983. During her tenure at Rockhurst, she taught both basic and clinical science courses and was best known for her contributions to the program’s exercise physiology and cardiopulmonary courses. The Jean Hiebert Award for Outstanding Academic Performance is awarded to a graduating student who has demonstrated both exemplary academic achievements and professional behaviors.