ECC Celebrates Physical Therapist Assistant Program Graduates

Graduates from Essex County College’s Physical Therapist Assistant Program gather on stage during the Class of 2026 Pinning Ceremony held May 5 in Smith Hall.

NEWARK, N.J. – Essex County College celebrated 24 graduates of its Physical Therapist Assistant Program during a pinning ceremony held May 5 in Smith Hall on the Newark campus.

The ceremony recognized the Class of 2026 as students prepared to transition into the next phase of their healthcare careers. Family members, faculty, classmates, and college leadership gathered to celebrate the graduates’ hard work and accomplishments throughout the program.

President Dr. Augustine A. Boakye delivered welcome remarks alongside Vice President of Academic Affairs and Chief Academic Officer Dr. Hamin Shabazz and Nursing and Allied Health Chairperson Dr. Lori York. Physical Therapist Assistant Program Coordinator Dr. Thomas Donofrio and PTA Class President Kyla Sebello delivered additional remarks.

Students and faculty participate in the candle lighting tradition during Essex County College’s Physical Therapist Assistant Program pinning ceremony for the Class of 2026.

One of the ceremony’s traditions included a candle lighting ceremony, symbolizing the passing of the torch from graduating students to the next class of future Physical Therapist Assistants.

This year’s event also marked a transition in leadership within the program. After decades of service, Dr. Christine Stutz-Doyle is stepping down as director of the program while continuing to serve as faculty professor. Dr. Thomas Donofrio, who has worked alongside her for the past 15 years, will continue leading the department forward.

Essex County College’s Physical Therapist Assistant Program prepares students for careers supporting patients through rehabilitation, recovery, and movement-based care in hospitals, rehabilitation centers, outpatient clinics, and other healthcare settings. According to the American Physical Therapy Association, Physical Therapist Assistants work under the supervision of physical therapists to help patients improve mobility, manage pain, and regain independence following injury or illness.

To learn more about Essex County College’s Physical Therapist Assistant Program, visit the PTA Program Overview & FAQ page.