Matthew Hyland, Named Catherine Worthingham Fellow, APTA’s Highest Honor
Թϱ University Associate Professor Matthew Hyland among honorees recognized at APTA Leadership Conference this summer.
The American Physical Therapy Association (APTA) has awarded Dr. Matthew Hyland, associate professor of physical therapy at Թϱ University, its most prestigious recognition, the Catherine Worthingham Fellowship. This honor, considered the association’s highest membership category, celebrates physical therapists who have demonstrated unwavering commitment to advancing the profession for more than 15 years.
“Nobody goes into a life of service and advocacy to receive an award or honor,” said Dr. Hyland, reflecting on the honor. “However, when you receive such a special recognition, one that your mentors and professional legends have received, it is an honor.”
A physical therapist with nearly 30 years of experience as a clinician, educator, researcher and advocate, Dr. Hyland’s service to APTA spans decades. In New York, he began as district chair for Hudson Valley, serving three years before being elected president of APTA New York, a role he held for four years. On the national level, he went on to serve four years as one of just nine members of the APTA Board of Directors and three years as vice president of the organization. He currently serves as chief delegate and practice chair of the orthopedic section.
The Catherine Worthingham Fellowship not only recognizes professional excellence but also serves as an inspiration for physical therapists across the country. APTA New York praised Dr. Hyland in a social media message:
“Matthew, you’ve built rigor and depth into every patient interaction, every lecture, every study—setting the bar for what it means to be not just a clinician, but a true scholar-practitioner. Your combination of PT practice and academic excellence is exactly what this award stands for. Here’s to you: for pushing boundaries, demanding better outcomes, and mentoring the next generation of physical therapists. The fellowship is well-deserved.”
With this fellowship, Dr. Hyland joins a select group of leaders whose contributions have shaped and continue to shape the profession of physical therapy.
