Dr. Jacque Bradford
Clinical Associate Professor, DPT Program Director
Degrees: BSEd in Exercise and Sport Science, (’03)
MS in Human Movement Science, (’06)
EdD in Instructional Design and Technology, (’18)
Current Title:
Director, Doctor of Physical Therapy Program
University of Memphis Lambuth Campus
What year did you graduate, and what degree did you earn from the University of Memphis?
I am a 3-time graduate of the U of M College of Education. I graduated in 2003 with my BSEd in Exercise & Sport Science Degree, in 2006 with my MS in human Movement Science, and again in 2018 with my EdD in Instructional Design and Technology. The experiences within these degrees absolutely shaped not only my career, but also my perspective on learning, leadership, and the power of intentional student and program development.
What is a favorite or meaningful memory from your time as a student in the College of Education?
One of my most meaningful memories comes from early in the IDT program, in Dr. Clif Mims’ Introduction to IDT course. Midway through the semester, he asked us to reflect on a simple but powerful prompt: “How is your windshield?” - a metaphorical check-in to gauge whether our view of the course felt muddy, buggy, or clear.
While Dr. Mims intended it as a course reflection and formative feedback, I found myself taking the question far beyond the classroom. At that time, I was a full-time graduate student, a full-time faculty member in that Doctor of Physical Therapy program at UTHSC, and a mother of two children under four. I was also a wife, daughter, sister, and friend. It was a time when I felt as though I could not be stretched any further. When I paused to assess my “windshield,” the emotions poured in - tired yet eager, frustrated yet motivated, pulled in many directions yet somehow renewed.
That moment of metacognitive reflection has stayed with me. Even today, I still hear Dr. Mims’ question echoing: Is my windshield muddy, buggy, or clear? And if it isn’t clear, what can I do to clean it? It’s a simple prompt that continues to ground me in both my personal and professional life.
How did your experience in the Instructional Design and Technology program prepare or shape you for the work you do today?
The Instructional Design and Technology program helped me understand how people learn and how systems influence learning. That foundation has been essential in every role I’ve held since then. Whether developing a new academic program, leading teams, or designing new courses, I draw heavily on the principles of adult learning, instructional design, and evidence-based practice. The IDT program taught me to approach complex challenges with creativity and purpose; skills I rely on daily in academic leadership.
What excites you most about leading the development of the new Doctor of Physical Therapy program at the Lambuth Campus and its impact on students and communities in West Tennessee?
What excites me most is knowing that the University of Memphis Doctor of Physical Therapy program will change lives far beyond the classroom. West Tennessee has long needed greater access to healthcare education and clinical services. Developing the DPT program at the Lambuth Campus is an opportunity to expand access to yet another health professional pathway for students on the campus in addition to nursing, strengthen the local healthcare workforce in dire need of more physical therapists, and improve community health and quality of life outcomes. Being part of something that will leave a lasting impact on our West Tennessee region, and watching students step into their calling with confidence, makes this work incredibly meaningful.
What advice would you give students considering a career in instructional design, healthcare, or higher education leadership?
My advice is to stay curious and stay open. These fields evolve quickly, and the people who thrive are those willing to learn, adapt, and let their passion guide them. Seek mentors, ask questions, be vulnerable, and don’t be afraid of roles that stretch you. Most importantly, remember that at the heart of all three fields is service: service to learners, patients, communities, and future professionals. If you lead with purpose and empathy, you’ll make an impact wherever you go.