Outstanding PT Student ~ Cipryana Mack

From Wingate University, Cipryana is set to graduate this December.  She embodies the qualities that define an outstanding PT student. The list of her accomplishments are incredible; strong academic performance, participation in research, founder of Wingate DPT’s student diversity committee, ADAPT, volunteer coach in the Rock Steady Boxing program, and participant in Project 658, which serves the refugee and immigrant communities in Charlotte.  Cipryana is known as a humble leader, a lifelong learner, and a role model to her fellow students. There is no doubt she will have a profound impact on the profession’s future. Cipryana’s excellence in both academics and service make her an asset to Wingate University and the APTA North Carolina chapter.  Congratulations, Cipryana!

Outstanding Physical Therapist ~ Dr. Lance Mabry

Dr. Lance Mabry, from High Point University has made a tremendous impact in the PR community through his roles in clinical practice, education, research, and advocacy. Dr. Mabry is OCS and FAAOMPT.  As an active researcher, he contributed significantly to the our field. Prior to education, he retired as a PT in the Air Force and he continues to serve patients in various pro bono roles. Dr. Mabry has been active at the local, state, and national levels, currently serving as the state’s Federal Affairs Liaison.  Those who know Dr. Mabry recognize his servant leadership and consistent support for the profession, whether through direct interactions with legislators or the passing of his passion for advocacy to the next generation ofPTs.  Congratulations Lance!

Ben F. Massey Jr Public Service Award ~ Congressman Don Davis

While Representative Davis was in Washington at the time of our Awards Ceremony, distinguished members were able to present the award to him in person in his district office in November.  At the Awards Ceremony, we celebrated by having the namesake of the Award, Ben Massey, read the award citation:  The 2024 winner of the Ben Massey Public Service Award is Congressman Donald G. Davis, who currently serves  the US House of Representatives. Congressman Davis began his career in the United States Air Force, then entered the field of education and earned his Doctorate in Education from ECU in 2007.  During his time as a NC senator and congressman, Rep. Davis served as an unwavering advocate for the field of PT in NC. Congressman Davis and his staff have committed to supporting 100% of legislation put forth by the APTA NCand have followed through on this promise. To date, Congressman Davis has co-sponsored nine APTA sponsored bills including being the primary sponsor on the REDUCE Act (HR 7279) which aims to eliminate the need for a physician plan of care approval through Medicare. Congratulations to Congressman Donald G. Davis !

Darlene M. Sekerak Legislative Award ~ Dr. Eileen Carter

This year, this distinguished award was presented by the namesake of the award herself, Dr. Sekerak!  Dr. Eileen Carter, who has owned Comprehensive Rehab of Wilson NC since 1992, has been a NC-APTA member since 1980 and has an extensive history of leadership and advocacy for the profession in NC. A regular attendee of Capitol Hill Day each year, Dr. Carter serves as a strong voice of leadership while also facilitating involvement from younger generations. Dr. Carter played a pivotal role in several legislative accomplishments for PT in NC. Among these were establishing direct access for PTs in North Carolina, advocating for the signing of the spinal manipulation bill, and contributing to upholding the right for PTs to perform dry needling. Additionally, Dr. Carter has fostered professional relationships with several members of Congress during her career and has utilized these relationships to promote legislation for our profession.  

Dr. Carter is known for her professional leadership and passion for the advancement of physical therapy as a profession. Her contributions to the legislative advancement of the field have spanned her entire career. Congratulations Eileen!