MARIETTA, OHIO — Washington State College of Ohio (WSCO) is celebrating a significant milestone this summer as the college recognizes the first graduating class since relaunching its Physical Therapist Assistant (PTA) program.
The inaugural cohort represents an important step forward for WSCO and the region, preparing students with the knowledge, technical skills and hands-on experience needed to pursue careers in the physical therapy profession. The inaugural graduating class includes Kassidy Betzing, Aysia Burke, Bayleigh Carper, Andrew Curtis-Le, Haley Hatfield and Aaron Lemon. All six graduates have secured employment in the physical therapy field, demonstrating both the quality of the program and the growing demand for skilled physical therapist assistants.
For PTA Program Director Dr. Kim Vandergrift, the graduation of the inaugural cohort represents years of dedication to relaunching the program and preparing students for successful careers. Throughout their time in the program, she has watched the students grow academically, professionally and personally.
“I have personally watched the growth of every student in this inaugural cohort,” said Dr. Vandergrift. “From breaking out of their shells and improving their communication skills to accepting and implementing feedback and taking on leadership roles, they have quietly accepted every challenge placed in front of them with a smile and a strong dedication to success.”
The students have represented themselves and the PTA program professionally while engaging with the community, interacting with students from other programs and completing clinical experiences. Their commitment to the program and the profession has helped strengthen WSCO’s relationships with clinical partners while helping establish a strong foundation for future cohorts.
“The program faculty are appreciative of and recognize the efforts of our students in helping create a fantastic program that leads to a lifelong career in the physical therapy profession,” Dr. Vandergrift said. “We also greatly appreciate the input and ongoing support of our advisory board members and clinical partners in developing and implementing what we hope is the best PTA program that will continually add to the workforce for years to come.”
Graduate Bayleigh Carper said completing the program represents much more than earning a degree. “Graduating from the PTA program is more than just getting a degree; it shows the growth, perseverance, and dedication it took to get here,” Carper said.
Carper reflected on the challenges of balancing the demands of the program with the responsibilities of everyday life. “This journey has challenged me in ways that were unexpected. Learning how to balance studying, classes, assignments, and whatever else life decided to throw at me,” Carper said. “Each obstacle I was able to overcome has built compassion, dedication, and confidence that will be needed as a PTA.”
One of Carper’s most memorable moments came after completing a final practical during the Fall 2025 semester. Following the practical, she and Dr. Vandergrift reflected on the growth she had experienced throughout the semester. “This conversation meant a lot to me because it was a rewarding reminder that all of my hard work was paying off, and that others could recognize it,” Carper said.
As WSCO celebrates its first PTA graduates, the inaugural class leaves a lasting mark on the program and helps establish a foundation for future students who will pursue careers dedicated to helping others improve movement, function and quality of life.
The college congratulates the inaugural Physical Therapist Assistant graduating class and looks forward to seeing the impact these graduates will make in the physical therapy profession and throughout the communities they serve.
