The University of Colorado Physical Therapy Program honors the life and legacy of Dr. Carolyn Heriza, a pioneering educator and leader whose vision and dedication shaped the trajectory of physical therapy education at CU and beyond. 

Dr. Heriza served as Program Director from 1996 to 2005, a period marked by pivotal program developments. Under her leadership, the program advanced its research mission, strengthened clinical partnerships, and achieved a major transition to the School of Medicine. Her efforts were instrumental in securing approval for the Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) degree in 2004, positioning CU as a leader in doctoral-level physical therapy education. She also played a key role in planning for the program’s future home on the Anschutz Medical Campus, ensuring that physical therapy would thrive alongside other health sciences disciplines. 

Before joining CU, Dr. Heriza directed the Children’s Rehabilitation Unit at the University of Kansas Medical Center, where she championed pediatric rehabilitation and interdisciplinary care. Her expertise extended nationally through her contributions to the practice guidelines for the physical therapist in the neonatal intensive care unit, published by the APTA Pediatric Section. These guidelines continue to inform neonatal physiotherapy practice. 

Her excellence as an educator and mentor was recognized in 2001, when she received the APTA Academy of Education’s Award for Leadership in Education, one of the profession’s highest honors. This award reflects her unwavering commitment to advancing physical therapy education and fostering the next generation of clinicians and scholars. 

Reflecting on her impact, Dr. Michael Harris-Love, current Program Director, shared, “Carolyn Heriza was a visionary whose leadership shaped our program’s growth at the CU Anschutz campus. Her ability to combine her passion for patient care with her commitment to advance physical therapy education has greatly benefited our students and the profession. We are deeply grateful for her contributions and proud to continue the legacy she built.” 

Dr. Heriza’s influence lives on in the program’s continued growth and in the countless professionals she inspired. "Dr. Heriza was highly respected in the Pediatric Physical Therapy community for her research, primarily focused on preterm infants. As the Chair of my Doctor of Science in Pediatric Physical Therapy committee, she was a thorough and insightful advisor. On a few occasions, when I was able to visit the 9th and Colorado PT Program office, she would reserve a full day to assist me with my doctoral project. Her professionalism and leadership qualities were contagious," stated retired faculty member Lisa Dannemiller, PT, DSc. The University of Colorado Physical Therapy Program celebrates Dr. Heriza’s remarkable career and honors her enduring impact on the profession.