NORTH EAST, MD — Cecil College’s Physical Therapist Assistant (PTA) program marked a significant milestone on Thursday, May 15, by celebrating the Class of 2025 during a White Coat Pinning Ceremony. Held in the Technology Center at the North East Campus, the event honored seven students who successfully completed the program’s demanding curriculum and clinical training.
Established in January 2015, Cecil College’s PTA program has achieved national recognition for its outstanding outcomes. Initially accredited for five years, the program received full ten-year accreditation in 2021, bolstered by its remarkable track record. Each of the first six student cohorts achieved a 100 percent pass rate on the National Physical Therapy Exam (NPTE) on their first attempt, a performance that surpasses both national and local averages. To date, the program maintains a 100 percent overall pass rate and an equally impressive 100 percent employment rate, thanks in part to strong clinical partnerships with physical therapy providers.
“We set the bar and standards high for our PTA students, and we are very proud of their accomplishments,” said Deanna Smith, PT, MPT, Program Director of the PTA program. “Our faculty are dedicated to their success and spend a significant amount of time with the students to ensure they understand, and can apply, not just memorize, the material, thus preparing them for their future careers.”
During the ceremony, class president Jenna House reflected on the program’s impact, expressing the class’s appreciation. “On behalf of my class, I would like to extend our deepest gratitude to Cecil College for providing a program that has truly opened the doors to our career futures. We are incredibly thankful to our program instructors, whose guidance, wisdom, encouragement, and endless patience have shaped our journey in countless ways.” She also recognized the contributions of the clinical affiliates and the support from families and friends, noting their critical role in the students’ success.
The seven students honored at the ceremony include Joseph Denver, Darius Johnson, Harley Grevera, Jenna House, Lamont Washington, Philip Martin, and Alexa Mitros.
With the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projecting a 19 percent growth in PTA demand through 2033, the program continues to align with workforce needs. Maryland PTAs earn an annual mean wage of $65,510, demonstrating the profession’s significant opportunities.
Cecil College’s PTA program is set to begin accepting applications for its next cohort in July 2025, continuing its legacy of excellence in preparing skilled, confident professionals for the growing field of physical therapy.
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