2024 Recipients

High Point University

Ronnie Holevas

Ronnie earned her bachelor’s degree in Exercise and Sport Science with a minor in Entrepreneurship from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. In High Point University’s Department of Physical Therapy, she serves as the President of the Pain Special Interest Group and Co-Chair of Fundraising. In her youth, she was a dedicated dancer, later developing chronic pain. Her goal is to make chronic pain a more prevalent topic in physical therapy to help patients get back to doing the things they love at a quicker pace. She believes pain neuroscience education is the key to helping these patients become and stay active.

London McDaniel

London earned her bachelor’s degree in exercise science from Appalachian State University in 2022. London is involved in the American Physical Therapy Association at the state level serving as the Director of Community Service for the Student SIG. At department level, she serves as the Community Engagement Chair for High Point University’s Student Pro Bono Board and is involved with research identifying the Relationship between External Load, Knee Joint Biomechanics, and Self-Reported Soreness in Women’s Volleyball. London says her goal as a physical therapist  is to be a source of encouragement and guidance, helping patients understand that movement is a critical component of rehabilitation and a vital part of a healthy, fulfilling life.

University of Delaware

Adam Bungarden

Adam earned his undergraduate degree in exercise science from the University of Delaware, where he also minored in disability studies and was the leader of UDance Dance Marathon, the fourth largest dance marathon in the country. He now is one of the social chairs for the UDPT Class of 2025, helping to organize community-building events throughout the year. He also coaches at Arena Adaptive, guiding athletes with a variety of disabilities through crossfit-like workouts. Adam’s involvement with Arena has inspired his future physical therapy goals of making a difference through adaptive athletics and neurologic interventions.

Caitlin Holland

Caitlin earned her bachelor’s degree in Exercise Science from Kent State University in 2022, where she was a Division I field hockey player and three-time MAC conference champion. She was recognized as a four-time Scholar of Distinction by the National Field Hockey Coaches Association for her academic excellence. Passionate about inclusion, Caitlin has dedicated her time to volunteering in pediatric settings, as well as adaptive fitness classes for athletes with disabilities—two populations she hopes to serve in her future career. She aspires to work in pediatrics, striving to empower individuals of all abilities throughout her career. 

Rachel Scherbenske

Rachel studied at the University of Virginia, where she completed her Bachelor’s in Kinesiology followed by a Master’s in Athletic Training. After graduating in 2022, she worked as a Certified Athletic Trainer for a year which solidified her passion for “movement as medicine” and excitement for a career in PT. Since beginning her studies in 2023, she has been grateful for the many opportunities provided at UD such as volunteering to support those in the community with chronic illness, leading a mentorship program for pre-PT students, and tutoring at the Writing Center. In the long term, Rachel hopes to complete an orthopedic residency and would eventually love to work in an academic setting in some capacity.