Tufts DPT Faculty Member Appointed to International Task Force on Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion

Moyo Tillery, PT, DPT, assistant professor and director of admissions in the Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) Boston program at Tufts University School of Medicine, has been appointed to the Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion (EDI) Task Force of the International Federation of Orthopedic Manual Physical Therapists (IFOMPT). This prestigious appointment underscores both Tillery’s leadership and Tufts University’s ongoing commitment to fostering diversity, equity, and inclusion in healthcare education and practice.

The EDI Task Force was created in response to concerns about the lack of diversity within IFOMPT’s leadership. Its primary objectives include assessing the current understanding of EDI within the organization, developing a comprehensive EDI policy, and revising the IFOMPT constitution to better reflect inclusive practices. As a specialist in Orthopedic Manual Physical Therapy (OMPT), Tillery is particularly focused on addressing gaps in representation and advocating for policies that promote innovation, research, and mentorship within this specialty.

“It is deeply personal for me to be part of the EDI task force,” Tillery said. “As a Black woman who specializes in Orthopedic Manual Physical Therapy (OMPT), individuals like me are significantly underrepresented.”

She recalls the profound impact of meeting a mentor early in her career who shared both her racial and gender identity. This encounter gave her a sense of belonging and inspired her to persevere, despite ongoing challenges with representation throughout her training. Her active involvement in professional organizations has been transformative, empowering her to take on leadership roles both nationally and internationally.

Tillery’s commitment to EDI in physical therapy also stems from her own experience as an underrepresented student. While pursuing her DPT, she joined her school’s diversity task force, an affinity group that provided vital support and a sense of community. This experience helped her feel connected to the profession and inspired her lifelong commitment to advocating for inclusive spaces within the field.

Her appointment to IFOMPT’s EDI Task Force is a natural extension of her dedication to equity and inclusion, which has been a hallmark of her work at Tufts.

"Tufts’ commitment to being an antiracist institution was one of the reasons I was drawn to the DPT program," she said. "I am fortunate to serve on the Tufts University School of Medicine Antiracism Committee, where I can contribute to Tufts’ mission domestically. This appointment to IFOMPT’s EDI task force further extends my commitment to diversity and inclusion. I hope to share this commitment at a global level and leverage experiences from both roles to amplify our impact.”

Over the course of her two-year term, Tillery aims to bridge gaps in OMPT by emphasizing the role of diverse perspectives and inclusive practices in driving innovation, clinical excellence, and mentorship. She also hopes to help create pathways for future leaders in the field, particularly those from underrepresented backgrounds.

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