Research/Areas of Interest
Dr. Edmonds is a scholar-activist whose work sits at the intersection of diversity, equity, and inclusion and healthcare education. Her recent scholarship and presentations address the impact of anti-DEI legislation on physical therapy education and practice, advocating for moral courage and systemic equity in the profession. Recognized with the Feitelberg Journal Founder's Award by the APTA Academy of Education, she brings both scholarly rigor and a deep commitment to justice to her work. Dr. Edmonds' research agenda centers on equity, innovative clinical education, and inclusive admissions in physical therapy. Her published work examines the ethical and professional imperatives of resisting anti-DEI legislation in healthcare education. Her ongoing scholarship explores inclusion within the disability community and the DPT student population. Together, this body of work reflects her commitment to expanding access, fostering inclusive learning environments, and preparing physical therapy students to serve diverse communities.
Education
- Doctor of Physical Therapy, Northwestern University, USA
- Masters of Physical Therapy, Northwestern University, United States
Biography
Dr. Edmonds' passion for underserved under-resourced communities led to her first clinical position at a large county hospital where she gained experience in neurologic, orthopedic, cardiovascular and burn care for children and adults. During this time, she discovered an excitement for the pediatric population and later gained extensive experience in neonatal and pediatric intensive care units, home based early intervention programs, and school systems in Chicago and Los Angeles and earned her board certification as a pediatric clinical specialist in 2014.
Dr. Edmonds began teaching graduate students in the academic setting in 2013 and has taught in multiple DPT programs including Northwestern University and University of Southern California. Dr. Edmonds is highly experienced in DPT clinical education and currently serves as Assistant Director of Clinical Education for DPT Seattle program.
Her love for health and wellness led to training and experience in Pilates-based rehabilitation, perinatal fitness, and Pilates/yoga for children with special needs. Her interest in the relationship of physical movement and learning has also allowed her to help inform educators and leaders in the early childhood profession at local and national conferences.
With a continued passion for service to communities lacking complete resources, she has spent time spreading her health and wellness knowledge with community organizations. Her passions of graduate level teaching and serving communities in need, allows her to hope that more physical therapy students and therapists develop ways to serve those who are underserved.