CHS alum Lindsey Fresenko named APTA Leadership Scholar

By Ryan Clark
CHS Communications Director

College of Health Sciences alumna Dr. Lindsey Fresenko, PT, DPT, PhD, has been selected as one of 25 national scholars in the American Physical Therapy Association (APTA) Association Leadership Scholars Program.

Fresenko earned her PhD in 2024 through the Rehabilitation and Health Sciences PhD program (RHB). She now serves as a clinical assistant professor in the Department of Exercise and Rehabilitative Sciences within the College of Health and Human Services at University of Toledo.

The highly competitive national program recognizes physical therapists, physical therapist assistants and students who demonstrate leadership potential and a commitment to advancing the profession. During the yearlong program, scholars receive mentorship from leaders in the field, participate in leadership development activities and collaborate on projects aligned with APTA’s strategic priorities.

“The APTA Association Leadership Scholars is a cohort of PTs, PTAs and students who will receive mentorship from leaders in our profession with the purpose of growing as leaders ourselves to advance our profession,” Fresenko said. “As part of the program, we work on a project in our groups that is geared toward fulfilling pieces of APTA’s strategic framework.”

Fresenko said her interest in physical therapy was shaped early by her family and educational experiences.

“I always had an interest in the healthcare field and when I attended a health career summer camp during high school, I learned about physical therapy as a career option and decided that was my path,” she said. “I've had such fulfillment in my career and the path it has taken to guide me to DPT education.”

Looking ahead, Fresenko said she plans to continue growing as an educator, remain active in the Ohio Physical Therapy Association and American Physical Therapy Association, and prioritize time with her family.

As an educator, Fresenko said she values helping shape the future of the profession.

“As a professor, I enjoy the opportunity to have an impact on the future of the physical therapy profession,” she said. “My career enables me to continue to learn every day and challenge myself to grow to provide students with the best evidence and current practice trends.”

She also credited her time at UK for helping prepare her for success.

“The opportunities that UK offers, particularly for producing evidence and the mentorship from experts in the field, sets UK apart from other institutions,” Fresenko said. “It’s a long journey but worthwhile for the right person.”