BUIES CREEK, N.C. – The Campbell University College of Pharmacy & Health Sciences (CPHS) recently awarded Murfreesboro native Michael Edwards the Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) Clinical Excellence Award.

Edwards was presented the award during the Doctor of Physical Therapy’s Inaugural Convocation Ceremony where Heidi Shearin, PT, DPT, director of Clinical Education and assistant professor of Health Sciences, said, “Michael proudly represented our program throughout all of his internships and clinical activities. His work exemplified the model of an effective partnership between a physical therapist and the patient. He excelled in performance, both in professional behaviors and in clinical skill.”

“The inaugural class was outstanding in their coursework and in their experiential education opportunities,” said, Greg Dedrick, PT, ScD, director of the DPT program. “We are extremely proud of Michael and his 35 fellow classmates. Michael has a true passion for physical therapy that will take him far in his profession.”

A graduate of Ridgecroft School in Ahoskie and of Chowan University in Murfreesboro, Edwards is currently employed by Youngs Physical Therapy in Greenville. His parents are Scott and Charlotte Edwards, natives of Murfreesboro and owners of Edwards Eye Care in Ahoskie.

The Clinical Excellence Award recognizes a student who has demonstrated significant improvement or consistent qualities of clinical excellence through professionalism, clinical skills, and commitment to promoting the physical therapy profession. Criteria for selection includes successful integration of didactic knowledge into clinical practice, feedback from clinical instructors related to outstanding professional behaviors, commitment to the mission of the Campbell University DPT Program through rural-based clinical activities, inter-professional activities, compassionate patient-centered care, and demonstrated clinical performance to elevate the practice of physical therapy including use of evidence based medicine and advocacy such as participation in the Pro Bono Clinic or Farm Worker’s Clinic.