Amy Beyersdorf wants the Munroe-Meyer Institute’s Department of Physical Therapy team to stay the course while a search is underway for a new director.
Starting in June, Beyersdorf takes on the role of interim director of the department.
“My goal in this role is to encourage our PT department to continue to work as a team and to expand our reach within the clinical setting, schools and in research,” she said. “I want to continue on that same path of excellence.”
Sandy Willett, PhD, has held the role since 2017. Beyersdorf applauded Dr. Willett’s work to build a strong and knowledgeable team.
Beyersdorf, who started at MMI in 1995, also sits on the search committee to find a new director. While she’s moving into the interim role, she’s also helping to determine what’s needed from a permanent director.
“We’re seeking out where we need to grow next and what our team is going to look like,” she said. “I’m learning the ins and outs of this job and where I can make a difference.”
In her time at MMI, Beyersdorf has earned many accolades, including the Gold U Award and the Outstanding Pediatric Clinical Practice Award from the American Physical Therapy Association.
Beyersdorf also is involved in SIT-PT research project, a five-year research project aimed to promote children’s early development and readiness to learn. Beyersedorf has volunteered with MMI’s GoBabyGo! Program, is a certified car seat specialist and volunteers with several community organizations.
“She is an amazing clinician, strong advocate for the population we serve and a wonderful human being,” said MMI Director Karoly Mirnics, MD, PhD, when announcing the appointment. “She has always been a great asset to MMI, and I am convinced that she will be an effective and compassionate leader through this transition time.”
In the interim position, Beyersdorf said she hopes to rely on her experience at the institute to continue propelling the department forward.
“We have a wealth of knowledge,” she said. “You’re able to talk to other physical therapists and bounce ideas off them. A lot of places, you’re alone. Here, you’re supported.”