If you ask Victor Louis, MBA, SPT, what defines his journey through his physical therapy (PT) graduate program so far, he’ll likely point to service, community and purpose. He finds ways to give back wherever he finds himself.
Louis is a Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) student at the University of St. Augustine for Health Sciences (USAHS) in St. Augustine, FL, expected to graduate in 2027. Recently, his commitment to leadership and service was recognized on a national level. He was selected as a Catherine Worthingham Fellow of the American Physical Therapy Association (APTA).
The APTA describes the award as ‘the association’s highest membership category, [it] serves as inspiration for all physical therapists to attain professional excellence.’ It showcases an aspiring PT’s commitment to advancing physical therapy in leadership, advocacy, practice or research. This honor is awarded by respected clinicians, educators and researchers in the physical therapy profession.
Taking a chance and being seen
“When I first found out, I was surprised. I couldn’t believe I actually won,” Louis says. For him, the recognition confirmed that the path he’s chosen matters. “It makes me feel proud of what I’ve been doing and what I plan to continue to do in leadership and my community,” he says. If you asked his friends? They would say, “Vic without service is not Victor at all. It’s a part of who I am,” he states.
The APTA award supports DPT students who show exceptional promise as emerging leaders. He will receive a scholarship to attend the APTA Combined Sections Meeting (CSM), one of the largest physical therapy conferences in the world, in February 2026 in Anaheim, California. For Louis, attending CSM 2026 isn’t just about networking; it’s about representing USAHS and being present in spaces where the future of the profession is shaped.
Louis attended the Florida Physical Therapy Association (FPTA) conference as an assembly representative, and that experience was eye-opening. “It feels good to know I’m doing more than being an average student,” he says.
Service as identity, not an add-on
Much of what stood out to the APTA came from Victor’s extensive involvement in leadership and community engagement. His volunteerism spans multiple organizations, and centers on scholarship, mentorship and youth development.
He serves as financial secretary of the Gamma Delta Sigma Alumni Chapter of Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, Inc. in Orlando, FL, where their motto, “Culture for Service and Service for Humanity,” mirrors the way he strives to live. It reflects the organization’s focus on brotherhood, scholarship and service, and the belief that personal growth comes with a responsibility to give back and serve the greater good through meaningful social and civic efforts.
Louis is also parliamentarian of the Central Florida Alumni Chapter of Alpha Kappa Psi (AKPsi) Professional Business Fraternity, Inc., president of Student Veterans of America’s USAHS chapter and a vice president for Sports SIG.
“After leaving the military, serving and giving back helped me find my purpose in life,” Louis explains. “As soon as I was accepted to USAHS, I tried to find a way to give back. You have to use what gifts you have, your time, talent and treasures, to help others.”
That mindset is deeply connected to why Victor chose physical therapy. As a U.S. Navy veteran entering a healthcare field rooted in service, he views patient care as an extension of the values he’s carried for years. “You have to have a heart to serve in this field,” he argues.
Growth through mentorship and professionalism
Being recognized by national PT leaders was especially meaningful for Louis, given his academic journey. Like many students, he entered the program with some doubts about his abilities and questions about whether he truly belonged. “I didn’t come into the DPT program with the highest GPA or know yet what I was capable of,” he shares. “To be chosen out of so many individuals makes me thankful.”
Louis is quick to credit USAHS faculty mentors for helping him grow, academically and personally. He says the program taught him how to advocate for himself, communicate respectfully and lead with professionalism. Louis elaborates, “You gain respect when you meet expectations and lead by example.”
He considers the influence his professors have had on his growth as a future physical therapist. “I am genuinely grateful for the mentorship, guidance and foundational training that the USAHS DPT faculty have provided,” he says.
Through the DPT program, he’s learned that effective care starts with seeing the whole patient. “As a PT, you don’t just treat an injury, you design plans and interventions based on the person and what’s going on in their life,” he describes.
These lessons carry over into his work with youth, where he mentors, coaches and advises students, often providing guidance he wishes he had received earlier. Louis says, “I love working with kids and helping mold the next generation.”
Looking ahead with purpose
What’s next for Louis? His long-term goals include pursuing a sports residency, possibly working as a travel physical therapist and eventually opening a sports rehabilitation facility.
He’s also interested in advocating for the professional recognition of physical therapy education and advancing the role of PTs within healthcare systems. He argues that DPT programs should be recognized as professional degrees that reflect the rigor, responsibility and depth of training required to practice as a physical therapist.
For future DPT students hoping to follow a similar path, Louis’ words of wisdom are simple and grounded. “Make sure you’re ready to serve others,” Louis advises. He reasons that patient-centered care isn’t just a phrase; it’s a responsibility.
As Louis prepares to represent USAHS at CSM 2026, one thing is clear: his journey is about more than personal achievement. It’s about showing up, lifting others and staying rooted in purpose, every step of the way.
