College of Health Sciences Selects Program Director for New Doctorate in Physical Therapy Program

Friday, December 15 — The University of Memphis College of Health Sciences (CHS) welcomes Dr. Jacque Bradford to the faculty as program director for the newly approved Doctor in Physical Therapy (DPT) program that will begin in fall 2026. Bradford will join the University on Jan. 8.

“We started the process of developing the DPT program nearly five years ago, and it has been a long and challenging endeavor,” said CHS dean Dr. Rick Bloomer. “We are grateful to have reached this point and for Dr. Bradford to join our faculty as the leader of this new program. The breadth and depth of her knowledge as a clinician, professor and administrator will help to ensure the success of this program.”

“Dr. Bradford’s hire to lead the DPT program strongly supports our Ascend strategic plan,” said Dr. David Russomanno, executive vice president for Academic Affairs and provost. “We are placing greater emphasis on STEM, healthcare and business to strengthen our contributions to workforce needs and the well-being of the communities that we serve.”

Bradford is a three-time graduate of the University of Memphis, receiving her Bachelor of Science in Education in Exercise and Sports Science, master’s degree in Human Movement Science and Doctor of Education in Instruction and Curriculum Leadership. She earned her DPT at the University of Tennessee Health Science Center (UTHSC), where she has also served as director of Clinical Education and program director in the DPT program. Her scholarly work is published in PhysTher, JOPTE and other refereed journals with a research focus on simulation-based education and teaching and learning in higher education.

In 2019, Bradford was awarded the Excellence in Teaching Award by the Student Government Association Executive Council at UTHSC. She is a certified healthcare simulation educator and holds experience developing, facilitating and evaluating simulation-based education.

“I am deeply honored and humbled to be appointed program director to develop the long-awaited program at the University of Memphis,” Bradford said. “The University has truly played a pivotal role in shaping my professional career, and I am excited about this opportunity to give back through the DPT program and the CHS. In the preparation of skilled and compassionate physical therapists, I will strive to create a culture of excellence, innovation and collaboration in service to Jackson and West Tennessee.”

The program will be housed on the Lambuth Campus in Jackson, Tennessee.

“We are delighted to have Dr. Bradford joining us to lead the DPT program,” said Lambuth chief operating officer and dean Dr. Niles Reddick. “This graduate program will be a tremendous asset for the University for generations to come and meets a critical shortage in our workforce.”

The DPT program adds to the already large portfolio of graduate programs offered at the University and will be the largest graduate cohort program on campus, accepting 40 new students each year.

“I am excited that the DPT will be added to our list of doctoral programs,” said Graduate School dean Dr. Deborah Tollefsen. “Dr. Bloomer and his colleagues should be commended on their hard work in establishing the program. I am thrilled to welcome Dr. Bradford to the University of Memphis and look forward to working with her and her colleagues to support their graduate students.”