Physical Therapy Alumni Profiles
Pat Wempe, PT, SCS, CSCS
Class of 1988
Pat Wempe has a multifaceted view of the University of Evansville's Department of Physical Therapy. As a graduate of the department, a former instructor in the program, and a business owner seeking talented new professionals, Wempe has had exposure to all aspects of the UE physical therapy program.
After completing his degree, Wempe remained in the Evansville area, focusing his professional skills in orthopedics. He also began conveying his clinical experiences to UE physical therapy students, teaching as an adjunct professor and providing supplemental lectures on special topics. Now an owner of ProRehab, a local outpatient physical and occupational therapy facility, his connection with the University has expanded. "With the University of Evansville, we at ProRehab join an elite group of nine organizations across the country that offer a credentialed residency program for sports physical therapy. Earning this prominent accreditation is a great honor and further establishes ProRehab as a nationwide leader in the physical therapy field and distinguishes our partnership with the University."
Wempe appreciates the connections and knowledge an Evansville education provided him and all the students who finish the program. "As an employer, I look to hire therapists who are hard-working and have good communication skills. I know Evansville students have completed a challenging, liberal arts-based education that makes them well-rounded, well-prepared employees."
Tara Halaby
Class of 2000
When searching for a college, Tara Halaby looked for a school where she could study both physical therapy and athletic training. She wanted to graduate within five years, but most schools told her that it would take seven years to accomplish her goals. Then she discovered the University of Evansville. "At UE, they told me that they would put together a curriculum for me so that I could study AT and PT and be out in five years."
While attending UE, Tara made the most of her experience. Her involvement in nine campus activities kept her busy. She highly recommends that future students complete an overseas clinical experience. Tara had the opportunity to work in Buenos Aires, Argentina, with an athletic club called Boca Juniors. "Living in Argentina was great, and I was exposed to amazing people, experiences, food, and culture."
Upon graduating from UE, Tara decided to pursue an exciting internship opportunity with Disney's Wide World of Sports in Orlando, Florida. "I'm doing a lot of networking here, and I'm looking forward to getting into the professional sports world, working in sport performance and rehabilitation for high caliber athletes."
