The DPT Class of 2025 elected officers to serve on the Student Physical Therapy Association. Meet the new officers below in their own words.
Saige LaPorte – President
“I was born and raised in Boca Raton, Florida. I attended the University of Florida for undergrad and received a Bachelor of Science in Psychology. I’m super proud to be a double gator and back at UF for my Doctor of Physical Therapy degree! A few things inspired me to pursue a career in physical therapy. One of them being my own experience with injuries and having such a positive experience as a patient of physical therapy. Second to that, my love for service and helping people, building connections with others, and getting to have a truly meaningful and long-lasting impact on someone feels really special to me and is what fills my cup! Ultimately, the combination of my passion for health and fitness as well as social and interpersonal connection is what lead me to physical therapy! As SPTA president, I hope to be the best advocate for my cohort that I can be. It’s been a pleasure being able to build stronger connections with my classmates and my professors thus far. I strive to be a valuable resource for my classmates, allowing them to achieve their full potential and get the most out of their experience as an SPT. There are a few ways I’d like to leave an impact on this program. But putting my project ideas aside, I hope at the very least to leave a positive impression on my peers and faculty mentors.”
Luke Henderson – Vice-President
“I am originally from Live Oak, Florida and then moved to Tampa for my undergraduate degree in Exercise Science at the University of South Florida. I knew I wanted to pursue a career in Physical Therapy because I have a passion for restoring people’s confidence by regaining their function. I love how this field provides the opportunity for patients and practitioners to gain a more meaningful connection and take holistic approaches in achieving patient goals. As Vice President, I want to create a cohesive cohort that recognizes and celebrates each talent my classmates possess, while elevating their personal and professional growth.”
Taylor Bauman – Treasurer
“I am from Jacksonville, FL and I graduated from Florida Gulf Coast University in May of 2021, where I played 4 years of collegiate softball. I became inspired to pursue a career in physical therapy when I was playing softball in college. I had a volunteer coach who was a physical therapist and she is the reason I fell in love with the profession after shadowing her! I loved being able to build a rapport with patients. As SPTA Treasurer, I aspire to make sure we as a class have enough funds to do many different activities including social events, banquets & eventually a white coat ceremony!”
Jason Phu – Secretary
“I am from Fords, New Jersey. I went to Rutgers University – New Brunswick where I graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Exercise Science. My desire to pursue a career in physical therapy stems from the unique collaboration between clinician and patient not seen any many other health care professions. By focusing on improving the physical health of patients, I am able to help them overcome a vulnerable period of life. SPTA provides me with a creative outlet where I can combine my strength and interests into making unique and lasting contributions within the Gainesville community, as well as assisting my classmates become successful clinicians.”