What I appreciate most about Carlow University’s Doctor of Physical Therapy program is its significant impact on the field of physical therapy through multiple innovative and comprehensive approaches. The program emphasizes three key fundamentals of healthcare practice: heart (professional duty to our patients), head (knowledge), and hand (clinical skills). This approach ensures that students not only acquire clinical skills but also develop empathy, advocacy skills, and a commitment to holistic healthcare equity. As a result, our students see the patient in front of them as more than just a diagnosis. 

Education 

Doctor of Physical Therapy, Duquesne University, Pittsburgh, Pa. 2013 
Bachelor of Science, Duquesne University, Pittsburgh, Pa. 2011 
Bachelor of Science in Health Sciences, Duquesne University, Pittsburgh, Pa. 2011 

Research 

Downum-Meyers, S. Wojcik-Larko, C. Criss, M. Walking: More that Gait Training Backwards on Purpose. Journal Club presented to the APTA Geriatrics Residency and Fellowship Special Interest Group. May 2023   
Wojcik-Larko, C. Ritter, J. Does a visual cue increase gait speed in the neurological population? Educational Session presented at Virtual AANN Advances in Stroke Care Conference. June 2021. 
Wojcik-Larko, C. Reducing Injuries and associated workers’ compensation cost by Safe Patient Handling Training. Poster and presentation at UPMC Community Provider Services Quality Fair. September 2019 
Wojcik-Larko, C. Implementation of Safe Patient Handling Training to Reduce Injuries. Poster at UPMC Community Provider Services Quality Fair. September 2018 
Wojcik-Larko, C. McMahon, J. Fall reduction after Initiation of Transfer Clinic. Educational Session presented at APTA NEXT National Conference. June 2017. 

Publications 

Downum-Meyers, S., Wojcik Larko, C., & Criss, M. (2023). Walking-More than Gait Training: Backwards on Purpose. Gerinotes, 30(3), 1–3. 

Awards & recognition 

2019 Improving the Workplace Award, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center 
Professional memberships 
American Physical Therapy Association, Neurology Section Member, 2011-present  
Pennsylvania Physical Therapy Association, 2011-present  
Secretary of Neurology Special Interest Group of Pennsylvania Physical Therapy Association, 2022-present  

Certifications: 

APTA Board-Certified Neurologic Clinical Specialist, July 2019 
APTA Clinical Instructor Certification, 2015 
American Heart Association Basic Life Support (CPR and AED) certified, 2013 

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Carlow University prohibits sex discrimination in any education program or activity that it operates. Individuals may report concerns or questions to the Title IX Coordinator, Jackie smith at jmsmith@carlow.edu or 412-578-6050.