November 19, 2025

Featured by the University of Memphis Marketing & Communications team, this Student Spotlight highlights Mikayla LeDuff — a Health Sciences major whose journey took her from California and Colorado to Memphis in search of connection, opportunity, and purpose. Mikayla discovered her passion for healthcare leadership after realizing that her strengths in organization, communication, and planning aligned more naturally with healthcare administration than her original nursing path. A pivotal public health course opened her eyes to issues of accessibility and the power of strong leadership in creating real change. Her involvement across campus — including Emerging Leaders, Tiger Elite, the Campus Visit Program, Black Scholars Unlimited, and Omicron Delta Kappa — strengthened her leadership skills and helped her build community while representing the University at tours, events, and recruitment initiatives. Beyond campus, Mikayla found a second classroom in the city of Memphis. Through volunteer work with organizations like Room in the Inn and Germantown Parks and Recreation, she learned to adapt, serve diverse communities, and understand the real-world impact of equitable healthcare systems. Now preparing for graduate school, Mikayla reflects on how far she’s come: building confidence, discovering her purpose, and gaining a deeper understanding of the disparities that shape healthcare. Her journey is grounded in gratitude, especially for her mother, whose encouragement pushed her to explore new possibilities and ultimately find a place to call home.

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November 10, 2025

Dr. Brandt Pence, Associate Professor in the College of Health Sciences, was selected as part of the inaugural graduating class of the Memphis Research Ecosystem Leaders (MREL) program for his work in the Midsouth Aging and Metabolism focus area. The MREL program brings together scholars from across the Memphis research community to strengthen collaboration, develop cross-institutional partnerships, and accelerate solutions to major public health and scientific challenges. As a member of the Aging and Metabolism track, Dr. Pence contributed expertise on inflammation, metabolic health, and the biological factors that influence healthy aging. His participation underscores the College of Health Sciences’ growing leadership in aging and metabolic research, as well as its commitment to improving long-term health outcomes for communities throughout the Midsouth.

October 31, 2025

Dr. Richard Bloomer, Dean of the University of Memphis College of Health Sciences, appeared on WREG’s Live at 9 to discuss how nutrition and lifestyle changes can support individuals managing ADHD. He highlighted the importance of balanced eating, consistent sleep, and regular physical activity in promoting focus and brain health—while emphasizing that these strategies are most effective when used alongside professional medical care.

October 12, 2025

Tara Hunter, director of the University of Memphis College of Health Sciences Medical Assisting program, successfully completed the Chicago Marathon. A dedicated runner who has completed multiple marathons, Tara continues to inspire students and colleagues alike through her perseverance and commitment—both on and off the course. We are incredibly proud of her accomplishment and the example she sets for our community of health professionals in training.

September 26, 2025

Career paths are rarely straight lines, and Dr. Shirley Brown is proof that detours can lead to destiny. Now a Clinical Associate Professor in the College of Health Sciences at the University of Memphis, Dr. Brown’s journey began with setbacks—failing nursing school twice—before a chance encounter introduced her to emergency medical technician (EMT) training. That unexpected path gave her the confidence and hands-on experience to reapply to nursing school and succeed on her third try, launching a 36-year career in healthcare. She went on to earn her BSN, MSN, and EdD; today she also serves patients as a psychiatric nurse practitioner and bedside nurse at Regional One Health. Through every challenge, her mantra stayed the same: rest, regroup, restart. Sharing her story with students, she underscores the power of perseverance, self-belief, and community—“Your tribe is everything.” Dr. Brown’s path is a reminder that obstacles aren’t roadblocks—they’re stepping stones to growth.

Full Choose901 Story

September 20, 2025

Addressing the demand for more physical therapists in Tennessee, the University of Memphis at Lambuth held a ribbon-cutting ceremony for the opening of its Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) facility. Students will train in a variety of disciplines under the program in the College of Health Sciences, bridging the gap in the state’s physical therapy workforce. “The ribbon-cutting ceremony marks a historic milestone for the DPT program, reflecting continued growth in enrollment and healthcare education on the Lambuth Campus,” said Dr. Jacque Bradford, Program Director. “This program is designed to address the critical need for physical therapists in the Jackson community and across rural West Tennessee.”

Full Jackson Sun Story

September 6, 2025

The Fall 2025 required internship meeting at the College of Health Sciences was a tremendous success! Students had the opportunity to dive deep into internship requirements alongside on-site advisors and internship coordinators. They also connected with their faculty mentors and met several of our valued community partners—including Campbell Clinic and LifeDoc—who play a vital role in hosting and mentoring our students. Internships are essential in shaping well-rounded, career-ready graduates.

August 22, 2025

In recognition of National Wellness Month, Anna Langston, Associate Professor of Teaching, joined the Digital Desk for a comprehensive discussion on wellness and what it truly means to live a life centered around it. Professor Langston highlighted practical ways to integrate wellness into everyday routines and emphasized the importance of balance in physical, mental, and emotional health.

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August 15, 2025

University of Memphis exercise, sport and movement sciences researchers represented the Tigers internationally at the 2025 Congress of the International Society of Biomechanics in Stockholm, Sweden. They presented cutting-edge findings in human movement sciences, fostering international collaborations and strengthening the university’s presence in the global research community.

August 8, 2025

Alongside PACE Continuing Education, the Center for Regional Economic Enrichment, and the GROWWTH program, the College recently celebrated the graduation of the Healthcare Career Academy’s latest cohort of medical assistants. Under Program Director Tara Hunter, 24 students completed the rigorous six-month program.

August 1, 2025

Our mobile devices rely on materials that are mined from the few remaining gorilla habitats. For the first two weeks of the semester, the Zoo is loaning us one of their specialized tech recycling bins. Students, faculty, and staff are encouraged to donate outdated electronics to reduce the demand for mining in critical habitats.

July 25, 2025

Students from the Clinical Nutrition program recently returned from Ischia, Italy, where they took part in the Nutrition in Italy study abroad program led by Professor Schallert. The immersive experience focused on the intersections of culture, health, nutrition, and communication.

June 26, 2025

Led by Anna Langston and Tara Hunter, Health Sciences students recently participated in a study abroad program in Costa Rica focused on cultural competence and patient interaction. Students gained valuable experience in cross-cultural communication.

June 20, 2025

The DPT program at the Lambuth Campus was recently featured on WBBJ-TV’s Midday Guest segment. The interview highlights the program’s mission, regional impact, and what makes it unique for aspiring physical therapists.

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June 6, 2025

Dr. Jamie Brundson has secured two competitive grants totaling $75,000 to support initiatives at the Ascend Education program and to advance a developing global teaching model. A grant from Wake Forest University will support the "Ascend University of Memphis" initiative.

May 30, 2025

Angela Johnson developed a new wellness initiative, “Seat to Feet,” officially launching June 4, 2025. The program promotes advisor well-being through 30-minute group walks.

May 16, 2025

We’re excited to share that Dr. Rachel Humphrey, Director of Clinical Education for the University of Memphis' developing Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) program*, was recently interviewed for a podcast hosted by Dr. Mike Chua, owner of GeriHab Physical Therapy and Wellness in Jackson, Tennessee. Dr. Humphrey spoke about the future of our developing program and what makes it exceptional. Be sure to give it a watch at the link above. It’s a great preview of the energy and vision driving this exciting new program.

May 2, 2025

Former Health Sciences professor Jane Howles Hooker was honored with the UofM Illustrious Service Award at this year’s Distinguished Alumni Awards. Dr. Hooker, who earned a Bachelor of Science in Education in 1968, a Master of Education in 1969 and later a doctorate from the University of Mississippi, is more than a former professor and student-athlete–she’s a pioneer in women’s collegiate sports.

In 1969, Dr. Hooker, alongside her friend Elma Roane, established the Tennessee Women’s Sports Foundation to provide varsity sports for women. She also held numerous leadership roles in state and national athletic organizations and at the UofM, retiring in 1998. Her work in both administration and women’s sports contributed to the success of sports legends like Pat Summitt.

Dr. Hooker has always been a master of multitasking—while earning her bachelor’s and master’s degrees, she also managed her household with four children. Subsequently, while earning her doctorate, she continued to teach at Memphis State–well before the ease of online learning or modern communication tools existed.

The College of Health Sciences is proud to be built upon the hard work of alumnae like Hooker. We congratulate her on this well-deserved honor.

To learn more about Dr. Hooker and the Distinguished Alumni Awards, click the link below

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January 1, 2025

Will Barto kept a promise during a final talk with his father, Danton Barto, that he would earn a college degree in preparation for a football coaching career. Will kept his word and officially graduated with a degree in Physical Education Teacher Education (Sports Coaching).

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