University of Evansville associate professor of physical therapy Phil Plisky was the recipient of the 2016 United Methodist Exemplary Teacher Award presented at UE’s winter commencement exercise on December 14. The award is presented each year by the General Board of Higher Education and Ministry of the United Methodist Church.
Plisky earned his master of physical therapy degree from UE, and his Doctor of Science degree in orthopedic physical therapy from Rocky Mountain University of Health Professions. A board certified clinical specialist in orthopedics through the American Board of Physical Therapy Specialties, he is also a certified athletic trainer and certified strength and conditioning specialist.
His current research is on comprehensive movement testing and interventions in athletes, military personnel, and school aged children. He has published and presented internationally on return to sport testing, injury prevention, and field expedient movement testing.
Plisky founded and directs the ProRehab and University of Evansville Sports Residency Program. Now in its tenth year, the program has a national reputation and a 100 percent pass rate of its graduates on the board specialty exam in sports physical therapy.
He has received the Mary Bennet Outstanding Teacher award four times. This award is voted on by graduating physical therapy students.
Plisky is an expert in orthopedic and sports physical therapy. He serves as a consultant for collegiate and professional teams and has been instrumental in guiding one major league baseball organization’s injury prevention program over the last several years. He consults with a variety of military organizations, assisting to shape policy and programming decisions related to injury prevention.
Additionally, Plisky has implemented content related to communication, professional development, and leadership into the Doctor of Physical Therapy program  He shares this expertise as director of the Eykamp Center for Teaching Excellence. This position allows him to interact with each new UE faculty member, contributing to their success as effective teachers and sharing up to date research regarding adult learning and communication strategies.
