Betsy Donahoe-Fillmore, UD physical therapy professor, is protecting patients across the state after an appointment on Oct. 7 as a member of the Ohio Occupational Therapy, Physical Therapy and Athletic Trainers Board overseeing practice and licensure.

“I’m excited to serve the profession. It’s a new and different role for me, but these are the things I teach my UD students in the professional seminar courses where we cover rules, regulations, ethics and documentation,” Donahoe-Fillmore said of her appointment to the physical therapy section of the board. “I always try to educate our students that practicing ethically, in addition to following the rules and regulations of your state, is important because your patients will trust you and know you're giving them the best care.”

She previously served on the Ohio Physical Therapy Association board for more than 15 years and has been a practicing physical therapist for more than 34 years, 16 of them at UD as the pediatric coordinator and an associate professor. 

Donahoe-Fillmore’s research at UD focuses on pediatrics and women’s health, particularly related to wellness and newer technologies. Most recently, she and Trisha Renner, UD assistant clinical professor, studied using a portable 3D scanner to analyze a baby’s head shape. They will present their findings at the 2023 American Physical Therapy Association national conference.

“I feel grateful to be at UD where service is valued,” Donahoe-Fillmore said. “I’ve always been service-oriented and it has been a big part of my career. Having the time and support to serve in these roles is a luxury that not everybody in my profession has, so I feel very fortunate that I’m supported at UD where I can serve the profession, our students and our community.”