Chair's Message

Welcome to the Department of Physical Therapy.

I am honoured to be appointed Interim Chair of this vibrant and innovative department from January to June 2024. I want to thank my predecessor, Prof. Susan Jaglal, for her excellent leadership over the past five years. In January, I joined an established team in a co-leadership model, working with Prof. Brenda Mori, Vice-chair of Education and Director of Clinical Education & Community Affairs, and Prof. Sharon Switzer-McIntyre, Program Director of the Ontario Internationally Educated Physical Therapy Bridging Program.

The year 2024 will be a busy time for the Department of Physical Therapy as we expand our program to welcome 40 more learners. This enrolment expansion, in concert with the eventual opening of the Scarborough Academy of Medicine and Integrated Health (SAMIH), will help address the critical need for physiotherapists in Ontario. SAMIH offers an extraordinary opportunity to serve the community, grow our partnerships with local hospitals and clinics, and expand our collaborations with our clinician partners.

It is a privilege to lead this department during the exciting year ahead. I look forward to working with our program’s staff, faculty, and learners. Guided by our department’s vision to advance the teaching, science, and practice of physical therapy as an essential part of individual health and inclusive, flourishing communities, we will continue to focus on cultivating leaders, fostering equity, diversity, and inclusion, innovating in teaching and strengthening our shared scientific purpose.

Kara Patterson, PhD, PT
Associate Professor and Interim Chair