A Hardin-Simmons physical therapy faculty member and student swept the most prestigious awards at the recent Texas Physical Therapy Association's annual conference.

Members from throughout the state gathered as the representative body for physical therapists, physical therapist assistants, and students in the state of Texas recognized its best for the year 2008.

The Ruby Decker Award, considered the most prestigious honor a Texas physical therapist can receive, was given to Mary L. Garrett, assistant professor of physical therapy and director of clinical education for the doctor of physical therapy program at HSU. To be singled out for this award is significant, there are approximately 10,126 actively licensed physical therapists, and 4,673 physical therapist assistants in Texas.

In 1962, an anonymous donor, who wished to perpetuate the recognition of outstanding physical therapists in Texas, established the award in honor of legendary physical therapist Ruby Decker.

In a citation accompanying the award, Garret was called, "not just an asset to the profession, but also to the human race. She has dedicated her life to providing care to others while teaching, mentoring, and inspiring the next generation of physical therapists. Her approach to all things reflects her deep devotion to God and to everyone around her." Garret has served on the March of Dimes Board, the West Texas Autism Center Board, volunteers with Special Olympics, and the Make-a-Wish Foundation. The citation went on to say, "An incredibly active member of the APTA and TPTA, she always gives the very best of herself whether in a practice environment or a classroom. She is one of the best people you will ever meet."

This year's Rex Nutt Outstanding Physical Therapy Student Award went to our own Laura Fisher. Fisher is the seventh HSU student to receive the award since the physical therapy program graduated its first students in 1997. There are 10 physical therapy programs in Texas.

Given to the top Texas physical therapy student, the award is given to an outstanding student sho exhibits excellence in both leadership and clinical skills. The award was renamed and first bestowed in 2000 in honor of Rex Nutt, a physical therapist who has dedicated his professional career to furthering the educational and professional advancement of physical therapy.

The Texas Physical Therapy Association empowers its members as professionals, acknowledged by consumer and other healthcasre provides, as leaders in the diagnosis of, interventions for, and prevention of impairments and conditions that affect movement, function, health and wellness an whose services are directly accessible by all.