Eric J Hegedus, PT, DPT, PhD, MHSc is the Founding Program Director for the Doctor of Physical Therapy Program in Phoenix, AZ. Dr. Hegedus has had a notable 30-year career as a leader and innovator in physical therapist education, research, and clinical practice. He has developed 2 DPT educational programs, is an international speaker with over 85 published peer-reviewed manuscripts and 7 books/chapters, and is engaged in continued clinical practice working predominantly with athletes, including the last 12 years working with running athletes. He is an ABPTS-certified Orthopedic Physical Therapy Specialist (OCS and has won several awards and honors as a teacher including the James A Gould Excellence in Teaching Orthopaedic Physical Therapy award.