The Wayne State University Eugene Applebaum College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences recently recognized two Health Care Sciences faculty members for exemplary performance in the classroom.

Both 2024 recipients of the HCS Teaching Award instruct and research within the Doctor of Physical Therapy program.

Congratulations to Associate Professor of Physical Therapy Nora Fritz, who also serves as the department's director of research.

“Dr. Fritz is not only a prolific researcher but is committed to bringing her knowledge to the classroom in a way that broadens students’ understanding,” said Doctor of Physical Therapy Program Director Tina Reid. “She has the ability to bring the complexities of the nervous system to the students so they can begin to connect neuroscience with patient care and clinical reasoning. Nora is committed to student understanding and success.”

The DPT student who nominated Fritz said, “She is an amazing professor and truly cares about her students’ success.”

Congratulations as well to Assistant Clinical Professor of Physical Therapy Marie Eve Pepin. 

“We are very fortunate to have Dr. Pepin as part of our faculty,” said Reid. “She works tirelessly to provide the best possible learning environment and structure for student success. Her contributions and dedication to improve our program competency exams and student board preparation have made a direct impact on our excellent first-time pass rate.”

Pepin's nominating DPT student said, “Dr. Pepin is an excellent professor who challenges us because she wants us to be the best possible therapist. She expects the best from all of us and encourages us when things are tough. Not only is she an excellent professor but she is also a therapist who I can look up to as I aim to be as good as her.”

Health Care Sciences Department Chair Diane Adamo said, “It is clear that both Nora and Marie are dedicated to finding ways to reach and teach students. That commitment has driven them to develop meaningful and successful learning experiences in and out of the classroom.”

Physical therapists are dynamic health professionals who develop, coordinate and utilize select knowledge, skills and techniques in planning, organizing and directing programs for the care of individuals whose ability to function is impaired or threatened by disease or injury. The goal of PT is to enhance a person’s quality of life and their ability to participate in activities. The Doctor of Physical Therapy program application process opens July 1 and the deadline is Oct. 15. WSU Applebaum information meetings for prospective students take place at 6 p.m. on the first Tuesday of each month.

An anchor in urban health care

The Eugene Applebaum College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences is built on more than 100 years of tradition and innovation in the heart of Detroit. We have grown deep roots in our city, harnessing its powerhouse hospital systems and community service organizations as vibrant, real-world training grounds for students, with an ongoing focus on social justice in health care. And our research at all levels – from undergraduates to veteran faculty members – translates into creative solutions for healthier communities.

Wayne State University is a premier urban research institution offering approximately 350 academic programs through 13 schools and colleges to nearly 24,000 students.