LLU&MC Scope Autumn 2000

First PTA students graduate from Oakwood College

The first group of physical therapist assistant AS degree students from the School of Allied Health Professions pose after receiving their diplomas during Oakwood College, Huntsville, Alabama, commencement ceremonies. Pictured, from left, are: Spendy Pierre-Louis, Valerie Heath, Muriel Maxis, and Mary McGauley. The event was held in the Von Braun Civic Center in downtown Huntsville to ensure adequate seating for family and friends of the Oakwood College graduates.

The first group of physical therapist assistant AS degree students from the School of Allied Health Professions participated in Oakwood College, Huntsville, Alabama, commencement ceremonies on May 13.

According to Joyce W. Hopp, PhD, MPH, dean, this program represents the first such distance learning degree program between General Conference institutions, and is part of the ongoing cooperative efforts between LLU and Oakwood College.

The program, initiated and led by Desmyrna Taylor, MPT, director of the Loma Linda physical therapy assistant program, is conducted by interactive video technology between classrooms at LLU and Oakwood College.

LLU provides cadavers for dissection in gross anatomy lab at Oakwood College so students obtain the same level of instruction as on the Loma Linda campus. The program is fully approved by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges, as well as by the state of Alabama Department of Education.

Graduates will fill positions in the health-care field in several states across the United States, as they come to Oakwood College from across the continent.

[Scope, Autumn 2000]