Galloway, N.J. — Stockton University’s Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) program has been awarded a $185,000 grant from the Bacharach Foundation that will allow the university to enhance its existing facilities into a state-of-the-art research laboratory.

“This generous grant from the Bacharach Foundation represents a transformational investment in our program at a critical moment,” said Pat McGinnis, the chair of the DPT program and a professor of Physical Therapy. “Our students will have access to the cutting-edge equipment and teaching innovations to position them as leaders in the field, and our faculty will have the platform to expand scholarly productivity and drive innovation in patient-centered care.”

McGinnis said the grant funding will support the purchase in 2026 of advanced equipment, such as gait analysis and balance assessment systems, diagnostic ultrasound, electromyography (EMG) technology, blood flow restriction training systems and exercise testing tools.

In addition to research advancements, the project emphasizes experiential and inclusive learning, including simulation-based education. The grant allows for the purchase of Community Action Poverty Simulation Kits that will immerse students in the realities of living in poverty and how to approach these challenges when working with clients.

“This will help students develop a deeper understanding of health disparities and prepare them to provide socially responsive care,” McGinnis said.

Dr. Ali Moradi, interim dean of Stockton’s School of Health Sciences, expressed his appreciation for the Bacharach Foundation’s support, noting that the investment enhances Stockton’s programs and enables students to advance their training and clinical application through innovative, hands-on learning experiences.

"In a competitive regional landscape with many physical therapy programs vying for talented students, this grant is a game-changer for Stockton,” he said. “We're thrilled to have a partner in the Bacharach Foundation that shares our commitment to educational excellence and scientific advancement."

Moradi said that one of the most exciting aspects of the grant is the potential for collaboration across the university.

“Our faculty can now pursue human movement research with Exercise Science colleagues, partner with the Stockton Center on Successful Aging to support older adults and provide evidence-based care to our student athletes,” he said. “This funding enables us to break down silos and create meaningful interprofessional learning experiences that prepare graduates to work in today's collaborative health care environment."

Dr. Richard Kathrins, the president of the Bacharach Foundation, praised Stockton’s DPT program as a leader in South Jersey.

“The Bacharach Foundation is proud to help take Stockton’s work to the next level with this grant,” he said. “This investment will support a state-of-the-art research lab and innovative teaching tools that mirror the technology and complexity of today’s clinical environment, ensuring that future physical therapists are prepared to deliver evidence-based, patient-centered care.”

For more information about Stockton’s Doctor of Physical Therapy program, contact the Office of Graduate Admissions at 609-626-3640 or email gradschool@stockton.edu.

-- Story by Mark Melhorn, photos by Susan Allen