Featured News
Every day College of Health Professions students, alumni, faculty and staff do extraordinary things. Read more about our latest achievements below.
Working later in life a ‘lifesaver’ for some, a drag for others
Tracey Gendron, Ph.D., chair and professor of Gerontology and executive director of the Virginia Center on Aging, recently was quoted in a Washington Post article about working later in life.


100 People to Meet in 2025: Impact Makers - Meet Annie Rhodes
Annie Rhodes is the Director of the Virginia Memory Project and has been named one of 100 people to meet in 2025!
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Making the holidays inclusive for loved ones experiencing cognitive decline
Recognizing how difficult the holiday season can be, VCU gerontology experts share ways to support older adults and their caregivers.


Class of 2024: Maikah and Makailah Flores are united in pursuit of health services
Though the twins will now pursue different areas of focus, VCU will remain a cherished experience they have in common.
A new vision of mobility for lower-limb amputees
Assistant professor of physical therapy Paul Kline, Ph.D. is leading a VCU study on the unique challenges faced by individuals with lower-limb amputations. The project uses eye-tracking technology to understand how people with amputations visually navigate their environment while walking.


Can VR games improve chronic pain?
VCU Physical Therapy researcher James Thomas, Ph.D., director of the Motor Control Lab, is a pioneer in the use of virtual-reality interventional games — like simulated dodgeball and fishing — that encourage trunk movement while distracting participants from chronic back pain. His results: a 31% reduction in pain and a 30% decrease in disability among users.


Motivating underserved children to become more physically active
Through her innovative “Together We Run” program, Tamara Buck, PT, DPT, PCS, is helping underserved children ages 8-13 train for and complete a 5K race. The initiative removes barriers to safe physical activity by providing mentorship, race buddies, and necessary equipment.


Class of 2024: In the language of Afghan patients, Marjan Habib supports their mental health
Master's degree graduate from VCU College of Health Professions counseling program is serving her community in Northern Virginia.


Building manager recognized for outstanding service
Brent Sprouse, the College’s building and operations manager for the College of Health Professions, received VCU’s 2024 Building Manager Award for the MCV Campus in recognition of his exceptional service in maintaining a safe, functional, and welcoming environment for the CHP community.


Distance learning programs reflect commitment to education, health care access for rural communities
Distance learning programs in Abingdon enable students to earn a bachelor’s degree locally through synchronous videoconferencing, on-site faculty, and simulation labs. These programs not only empower students to stay rooted in their communities but also help supply rural areas with well-trained health professionals who otherwise might relocate for education.

