Dr. Lynette Reina ’24 EdD, a dedicated educator and clinical assistant faculty member in the University of Lynchburg’s Doctor of Physical Therapy program, recently celebrated her Commencement with the 2024 class of the Doctor of Education in Leadership Studies.
Recognizing the rising prevalence of stress, anxiety, and depression among Lynchburg’s DPT students, the research for Reina’s doctoral thesis focused on developing a comprehensive model for enhancing students’ mental health throughout the program.
Her research aims to fill a crucial gap in understanding how DPT programs can effectively support students’ well-being. She is still working on her dissertation, “A Theoretical Model to Decrease Stress and Anxiety and Improve Mental Health and Well-Being in Physical Therapy Students,” and intends to publish and present it once completed.
With over a decade of experience in physical therapy education, including previous roles as a director of clinical education and program director for a physical therapist assistant program, Reina brings a wealth of practical insights to her academic pursuits. Her decision to pursue the EdD was driven by a desire to marry her passion for teaching with her interest in leadership development.
Reina elected to pursue a degree in leadership while simultaneously taking a step back from leadership positions in her career. She explained that before coming to Lynchburg, her experiences in leadership left her feeling “tired and burned out” without time to reflect on how she was doing as a leader or how she could regain her “passion and motivation.”
“By joining the faculty at the University of Lynchburg and being in the EdD program, I had the opportunity to pull back from leadership roles, which then offered me dedicated time to reflect on my experiences,” Reina said.
“I had the opportunity to use what I learned through the program to better understand myself as a person, as well as what I strive for as it pertains to leadership.”
When asked what she loves about the University, Reina was quick to point to the people and the supportive environment.
“My favorite part about the University of Lynchburg is the people, both as an employee and a student,” Reina said. “Moving from the Los Angeles and Orange County areas in southern California, to Denver, Colorado, and finally to Lynchburg, Virginia, I have definitely experienced cultural changes along the way.
“Adjusting to the Lynchburg and east coast culture and climate has taken time, but the people at the University of Lynchburg have made UL a safe space for me.”
Beyond her academic endeavors, Reina remains actively engaged in clinical practice, serving in Lynchburg General Hospital’s acute-care setting. Her commitment to academia and hands-on patient care reflects her holistic approach to physical therapy education.
Looking ahead, Reina envisions a future where she continues to contribute to the academic and research landscape of Lynchburg’s DPT program. With aspirations of transitioning to a tenure-track position, she wants to elevate her role as a leader in physical therapy education.
