The College of Health Professions at the University of Tennessee Health Science Center has named Richard Kasser, PhD, PT, interim chair and program director for the for the Department of Physical Therapy. In addition to this role, Dr. Kasser will continue to serve in his current position as assistant dean for Student Affairs in the college.
“We are fortunate to have someone with the experience and leadership skills of Dr. Kasser to direct the Physical Therapy program during this interim period,” said Stephen E. Alway, PhD, FACSM, dean of the College of Health Professions. “I have the utmost confidence that Dr. Kasser will build upon the strengths and continue the momentum that we have developed in the department, as we move towards Top 20 national rankings and meritorious community impact.”
Graduating from the UTHSC College of Health Professions with a physical therapy degree in 1991, Dr. Kasser has been employed with UTHSC since 1992. He received his PhD in anatomy from the University of Kansas and completed a postdoctoral fellowship at the University of Kansas Medical Center in neuro-chemistry.
“My vision for this department is to see us through an expansion plan, including planning for new space to house the increased number of students,” Dr. Kasser said. “I also plan to add stability during the coronavirus pandemic by hiring new faculty and completing the accreditation process that is due in 2023.”