The CU Physical Therapy Alumni Association congratulates our 2024 alumni awardees and thanks them for their commitment to the profession and the University of Colorado! Get to know Drs. David Bruton and Annie Sirotniak.

2024 CU Physical Therapy Alumni Association Rising Star Award: David Bruton, PT, DPT
Dr. David Bruton has always been a high achiever. Graduating from the University of Notre Dame with a degree in political science and sociology, Dr. Bruton first made his mark in the NFL. However, his passion for helping others led him to pursue a new career in physical therapy, earning his degree from the University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus. 

Dr. Bruton chose the CU Physical Therapy program for its strong reputation and hands-on clinical experience. The program’s proximity to his home allowed him to balance his studies with family life, making it the perfect fit. Reflecting on his time at CU, Dr. Bruton fondly recalls the hands-on lab experiences that were crucial to his development as a practitioner. “Every lab provided an opportunity to apply what we learned in lectures,” he says. “The massage lab was a favorite—I always joked we needed it every other day!” 

After graduating, Dr. Bruton opened Between the Lines Physical Therapy in Centennial, Colorado, focusing on sports orthopedic rehabilitation, performance, recovery, and concussion rehabilitation. His leadership extended to serving as co-president of the CU PT Alumni Board, where he supported the next generation of therapists. 

A significant milestone in Dr. Bruton’s career was speaking at the APTA Colorado Chapter conference, sharing insights from his journey. His business elective at CU PT proved invaluable in running his clinic, allowing him to provide patient-centered care without the limitations of insurance. 

Dr. Bruton’s special interests within physical therapy include sports orthopedic rehabilitation and concussion rehabilitation, driven by his NFL background. He also emphasizes integrating mental well-being into physical therapy, believing that psychological aspects are as crucial as physical recovery. 

Looking ahead, Dr. Bruton envisions expanding Between the Lines Physical Therapy to reach more athletes and individuals in need. He aims to offer no-charge physical therapy services in underserved areas of Denver and mentor upcoming physical therapists. He also plans to open a second location in Dayton, OH, and continue his professional development with additional certifications.

Outside his day job, Dr. Bruton remains actively involved in the physical therapy community. He has spoken at conferences, participated in workshops, and engaged in community outreach initiatives. His dedication to lifelong learning and improving access to care drives his involvement. 

Receiving the CU Physical Therapy Alumni Association Rising Star Award is a significant honor for Dr. Bruton. It validates his devotion to physical therapy and inspires him to continue striving for excellence. “This award reflects the hard work I’ve put into my practice,” he says. “It motivates me to keep pushing forward in my career.” 

Dr. Bruton’s advice for current DPT students is to stay curious, get involved in extracurricular activities, and make the most of clinical rotations and lab sessions. He emphasizes the importance of self-care to maintain balance during their studies. David Bruton’s journey from NFL star to a rising star in physical therapy is a testament to his commitment to helping others achieve their best.

2024 CU Physical Therapy Alumni Achievement Award: Annie Sirotniak, PT, DPT, MS
Annie Sirotniak’s journey in physical therapy is a testament to her dedication and passion for the field. Her educational path began with pre-health studies at George Mason University, followed by a BS in Kinesiology from CU Boulder, an MS in Physical Therapy from CU Health Sciences Center, and a transitional DPT from CU Anschutz. 

Annie’s choice to pursue her DPT at CU was influenced by her professional cycling career, which brought her to Colorado. While completing her prerequisites at CU Boulder, she volunteered at the Wardenburg Student Health Center, where she was inspired by the physical therapists and the CU Health Science Center PT program. Her excitement grew when she shadowed a friend accepted into the program, and she was thrilled to join the CU PT program herself. The evolution of the PT profession and her role as a clinical instructor motivated her to further her education with a transitional DPT. 

One of Annie’s fondest memories from her time in the program was connecting with inspiring faculty members like Drs. Nancy Bookstein, Denise Stelzner, and Jenny Weiss-Rodriguez. She cherishes the friendships formed with fellow students, culminating in a memorable river trip down the San Juan after graduation. 

Post-graduation, Annie accepted a position at CU Boulder’s Wardenburg Student Health Center, where she has spent her entire career. The clinic has evolved into Physical Therapy and Integrative Care at Medical Services, serving a diverse student population. Annie’s career has seen significant changes in healthcare and PT, from paper charts to electronic health records and from physician referrals to direct access clinics. She has specialized in general orthopedics with a focus on cycling, outreach to campus groups, and concussion management. As the lead physical therapist, she balances administrative duties with direct patient care, supervises six physical therapists, serves as the site coordinator for clinical education, and manages undergraduate volunteers. 

Annie’s special interests within physical therapy include working with young adults in a college health setting, guiding patients with evidence-based therapy, and educating them about injury, recovery, and wellness. She values the interdisciplinary approach of her clinic, which includes medical services, behavioral health, massage therapy, acupuncture, and chiropractic care. Her passion for music also allows her to connect with and treat musicians. 

Looking ahead, Annie aims to continue building leaders within her team at CU Boulder and to develop the clinical education and undergraduate volunteer programs further. Her involvement in the physical therapy community includes membership in the APTA, global health initiatives in Nicaragua and Panama, and participation in the Combined Sections Meetings of the APTA.

Receiving the Alumni Achievement Award is a humbling experience for Annie, who is grateful for the growth and depth of the CUPT program and the community of educators, clinicians, and students. Her advice to current DPT students is to balance school and life, seek diverse clinical experiences, and find mentorship. Annie’s journey exemplifies the fulfillment and impact of a career in physical therapy.