Alumni

Advancing the fields of health and rehabilitation science in more than 40 countries and all 50 states of the U.S.

SHRS alumni are 16,213 strong. Our alumni are making a difference all around the world, contributing to their fields through research, clinical practice, education, business and service. They reflect our excellence and their success contributes to our growth.   

We’re proud of each and every one of them.  

SHRS alumni remain an important part of our school. They mentor and serve as preceptors for current students. They support vital scholarships and programs through their donations. And they stay active in their academic, clinical and research communities.  

Our alumni team supports and provides opportunities for SHRS alumni to stay connected with the school, facultyand fellow alumni by:  

  • Attending alumni events on campus, across the country and around the world  
  • Serving as lecturers, mentors and preceptors to current students  
  • Keeping personal and business contact information up to date to help stay in touch with Pitt and SHRS  

Alumni Events

Join Pitt and SHRS for alumni events all year long—watch your inbox for invites to department and program-specific gatherings.

Pitt Alumni Association

Stay connected with the broader Pitt community through the Pitt Alumni Association.

Keep in Touch

We want to hear about your big life updates—new job, marriage, move or even a new email address.

Alumni Awards

The University of Pittsburgh School of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences (SHRS) Alumni Awards honor exceptional graduates who have made meaningful contributions to their professions, communities, and the broader world. As innovators, educators, and advocates, SHRS alumni embody the spirit of our school’s mission, and we are proud to celebrate those making a lasting impact.

During anniversary years, SHRS honors outstanding alumni for their impactful contributions to their fields, communities and beyond.

Nominations for the 55th Anniversary Alumni Awards are open!

This milestone celebration is an opportunity to recognize outstanding SHRS alumni who have made a significant impact in their fields, their communities, and beyond. We invite you to help us honor their achievements by submitting a nomination.

Deadline: May 30, 2025

55th Anniversary Alumni Award Recipients (2025)

Distinguished Alumni Awards

  • Craig Coleman (MA ’00) – Communication Science
  • William Wilson (BS ’16) – Emergency Medicine
  • Kate Kohne (MS ’16) – Rehabilitation Counseling
  • Linda McLinden (BS ’87) – Health Information Management
  • Teresa Brininger (MS ’03; PhD ’05) – Health and Rehabilitation Sciences and Occupational Therapy
  • Daniel Erb (BS ’81) – Physical Therapy
  • Laura Critchfield (MS ’11) – Physician Assistant Studies
  • Eric Sinagra (MS ’14) – Rehabilitation Science and Technology
  • Leigh Weiss (BS ’04) – Athletic Training

Humanitarian Award

Julia Lam (BS ’00; OTD ’23) – Rehabilitation Science and Occupational Therapy

Dean’s Choice

  • Jonathan Andino (BS ’08; DPT ’11) – Athletic Training and Physical Therapy
  • Kendrea Garand (CScD ’10) – Communication Science and Disorders

Philanthropy Award

Meagan Sampogna Williams (BS ’00) – Health Information Management

Research Discovery Award

Julie Fritz (PhD ’98) – Rehabilitation Science

Rising Star Awards

  • Christina Royster (BA ’10) – Communication Science
  • Justin Schindler (BS ’16) – Emergency Medicine
  • Mandi DeVito (MS ’13) – Rehabilitation Counseling
  • Sarah McKendry (OTD ’22)
  • Carrie Hoppes (PhD ’17) – Physical Therapy
  • Sally Klinner (MS ’24) – Physician Assistant Studies
  • Brandon Crooms (MS ’14) – Sports Medicine

Alumni Stories

Discover our incredible alumni and their inspiring journeys as they revolutionize health and rehabilitation through groundbreaking work and unwavering service!

Graphic image with three photos of a man and woman in blue sweatshirts working at a coffee bar. The text reads Brother Andre's Cafe, located in downtown Pittsburgh and Bellevue, PA.
Coffee, Community and Capability: How Occupational Therapy Fuels Brother Andre's Café
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Two men wearing gray sweatshirts saying Bruins Hockey while the man with a beard hold a black hockey jersey with gold letters saying Koontz and the number 24
A Dream Doctor of Physical Therapy Clinical Experience: Cole Koontz’s Journey to Working with Professional Ice Hockey 
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A man wears a formal black U.S. Navy coat with four gold bands on the sleeves and colorful military pins on the lapel.
Physical Therapy Alumni Spotlight: Norman L. Johnson 
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SHRS Alumni Contact

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CONTACT