Education
MSEd, Learning Design and Technology, Purdue University
B.S. in Health Sciences, with a certificate in Rehabilitation and Disability Studies, Indiana University-Purdue University Indianapolis
A.S., Physical Therapist Assisting, Vincennes University
Bio
Donna Peterson serves as the director of clinical education and assistant professor at Marian University, where she oversees clinical training, guides students in developing their professional identity, and supports their growth as future physical therapist assistants. Her primary academic focus lies in the advancement of physical therapist assistant education, mentorship, and fostering interprofessional collaboration within clinical education environments. She integrates evidence-based teaching methods and designs experiential learning to prepare students for successful clinical practice.
With over 30 years of experience as a licensed physical therapist assistant, Peterson’s career spans both patient care and academic leadership. She has spent more than 15 years in academia, beginning as a lab assistant and advancing to roles including adjunct professor, assistant professor, and assistant director of clinical education. Peterson brings extensive hands-on expertise in neurological rehabilitation and holds advanced certifications in neuromuscular rehabilitation and clinical instruction.
She is recognized by her peers for her commitment to professional leadership and service, including roles within the American Physical Therapy Association and as a site reviewer for the Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education. Among her honors, she received the Schneider Physical Therapist Assistant Award from Indiana APTA and was named a Health Care Hero by the Indiana Business Journal. Peterson’s career reflects a strong dedication to student success, professional advocacy, and elevating standards in physical therapy education.
Areas of Teaching Expertise
Teaching Philosophy
Peterson’s teaching philosophy is grounded in the value of lifelong learning and practical application. She believes in creating engaging learning environments grounded in real-world application and evidence-based practice. Using varied teaching methods, she supports each student’s unique background, encourages professional growth, reflection, and the integration of knowledge.
Her goal is to empower students to think critically, collaborate effectively, and develop lifelong skills, so they emerge as competent clinicians and effective educators prepared to contribute meaningfully to the physical therapy profession.
Research Interests
Peterson’s research interest focuses on clinical education best practices, mentorship in physical therapy, and effective strategies for transitioning students from the classroom to clinical leadership roles. She is also interested in improving rehabilitation outcomes for individuals with spinal cord injuries and fostering interprofessional collaboration within healthcare education.
Selected Publications
Peterson, D. (2012). Woman on a mission: The many benefits of volunteering abroad. PT in Motion, June.
Awards or Honors
Schneider Physical Therapist Assistant Award, Indiana APTA, 2017
Health Care Hero (NeuroHope Therapist), Indiana Business Journal: Community Advancement in Health Care, 2017
Committees and Boards
General Education Committee, Marian University, 2025
Site Reviewer Commission of Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education
Memberships in Professional Organizations
American Physical Therapy Association
Academy of Physical Therapy Education
Academy of Neurologic Physical Therapy
APTA Indiana Chapter
Service and Outreach
Judge, Indiana Health Occupations Students of America Spring Conference
Speaking Engagements or Media Appearances
Speaker, PT Day at the Statehouse, Indiana State Capitol
Personal Info
Outside of work, Peterson enjoys cooking and hosting gatherings for family and friends. She also loves puzzles, building with Lego, and any activity that challenges my problem-solving skills.
She values service and regularly volunteers at her child's school, participating in classroom activities, teacher appreciation, and other various events. She has a passion for sports and is a proud Green Bay Packers "owner" and devoted Wisconsin Badgers fan, even reflecting this loyalty by naming her dog Bucky.
