Faculty Spotlight: Chandi Edmonds

Tufts is committed to inclusivity and anti-racism initiatives, aiming to create a supportive environment for students. Meet Chandi Edmonds, PT, DPT, PCS, assistant professor in the Department of Rehabilitation Science. With research interests focused on pediatric athletes with disabilities and BIPOC student experiences, Chandi Edmonds is dedicated to advancing clinical practice and addressing disparities in the field.

The profession allows us to truly learn more about and understand our patients/clients because we spend extensive amounts of time together, typically at least weekly for multiple months.

What courses do you teach? 

"I teach courses in Physical Therapy Fundamentals, Management Across the Lifespan: Pediatrics, Management of Complex Patients, Clinical Prevention and Population Health II, and Physical Therapy Practice I and II (as the Assistant Director of Clinical Education)."

Why did you choose to become a Doctor of Physical Therapy? 

"Physical therapists specialize in analyzing and promoting human movement and because I love how our bodies are so wonderfully made and function it was a natural match! I love the biological sciences and the field of medicine and initially considered being a surgeon but found that I would not be able to build an in-depth and connected provider-client relationship like you potentially can as a physical therapist. The profession allows us to truly learn more about and understand our patients/clients because we spend extensive amounts of time together, typically at least weekly for multiple months."

What are your areas of research and why did you pick them? 

"My past research has involved international clinical education for student physical therapists. Now, I plan to spend time researching topics related to my clinical practice in pediatrics focusing on athletes with intellectual and developmental disabilities. I am also interested in the perceptions and experiences of students identifying as BIPOC during their physical therapy education."

What accomplishments are you most proud of? 

"Having a happy and healthy 3-year-old who experiences the joy of life."

Why did you choose to teach at Tufts?  

"Coming from academic institutions of various sizes, I believe Tufts has a strong commitment to 'doing better' for all but especially for people who have experienced racism. The Tufts Anti-Racist Institution initiative is a good start and I look forward to seeing how it is embodied in the classroom and campuses."

What is a piece of advice you would like to share with Tufts DPT students? 

"Never forget that you were selected for admission because we believe in you and what you have to bring to the world."