Spotlight Series: Meet and be inspired by the amazing individuals on the Duke Doctor of Physical Therapy, Orthopaedic Surgery, and Occupational Therapy Doctorate teams.
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Meet Kimberlyn Hayes, DPT Class of 2024
Q: What motivated you to choose a career in physical therapy?
A: I danced throughout my childhood and found myself with many injuries, which led me to seek physical therapy as a patient. One of the first physical therapists who treated me was a Black woman, and I always remember how positive that experience was for me. As I was exposed to physical therapy over the years, I was always fascinated by the field and wanted to pursue it as a career.
Q: As we navigate the physical therapy field - from your perspective, what would you want your colleagues to know?
A: I want my colleagues to know how important it is to all work together in physical therapy. Black physical therapists only make up about 5% of the profession, even though the U.S. population is about 13% Black. Our healthcare fields should accurately represent the communities we serve to help provide them with access to health services.
Q: Are you involved in any programs, projects, or groups connected to the study and practice of physical therapy?
A: I am involved with the National Association of Black Physical Therapists (NABPT). As an undergrad student, I helped charter the first collegiate chapter in the Atlanta University Center and served as that chapter’s first president. NABPT is an organization that connects and supports prospective PT/PTA students, current PT/PTA students, and PTs/PTAs while increasing diversity and inclusion in the field.