The APTA of Rhode Island is excited to invite you to a special PT and PTA Speed Networking Event. Whether you are a student looking to gain the best experience for your upcoming clinical rotations, an upcoming grad looking for a job prospect, or an early professional looking to make the next step in your career whether it be a promotion or change in setting, this event is designed to help you connect and build relationships across industry settings and specialties.
This dynamic speed networking event is designed to facilitate meaningful 1-on-1 introductions and provide engaging conversations among physical therapists and physical therapy assistants from diverse backgrounds and experiences across the states of Rhode Island.
Attendees will have the chance to connect with over 10 prominent mentors along with a dynamic presentation by a keynote presenter.
This is a great chance to expand your professional network, share insights, and gain fresh perspective in a relaxed and welcoming environment.
Location:
Chelo’s on the Warwick
2225 Post Road
Warwick, RI 02886
Banquet Room
Sponsorship Opportunities
Clinics and employers invited to participate as an exhibitor. There will be opportunities for employers and future clinicians to network and engage.
Space is limited, so be sure to reserve your spot early!
Students are free. A small fee for clinicians.
(This registration link is for attending and for sponsorships)
Schedule
5:30: Check in and exhibitor networking
6:00: Keynote Presentation: Your Career: Growth, Learning & Reinvention
6:30: Introduce Mentors and Networking activity
6:40: Speed Networking (5 rounds of 8 minutes each)
7:30: Continued Networking and Exhibitors
8:00: Evening Concludes
Hosted appetizers. Cash bar
Presented by Vivian Vitale
This engaging keynote presentation will explore the essential elements of professional development and career growth, offering practical insights for individuals at every stage of their journey. Attendees will learn what to look for as they advance in their careers, including how to identify meaningful opportunities for growth and long-term success. The session will also highlight the power of mentorship—what defines a strong, effective mentor-mentee relationship and how the right guidance can accelerate career progression.
In addition, the presentation will provide a clear, accessible breakdown of job offers and total compensation, helping participants better understand key components such as salary, paid time off (PTO), retirement plans like 401(k)s, and student loan forgiveness programs. By the end of the session, attendees will feel more confident navigating career decisions, evaluating opportunities, and advocating for their professional and financial well-being.
Vivian is the Founder of Vivian Vitale Consulting, where she advises organizations on leadership development, talent strategy, and people management practices. She also serves on the Board of Directors for Progress Software and NETSCOUT Systems, bringing more than 30 years of experiences in human resources leadership and organizational development.
Prior to lunching her consulting practice, Vivian served as Executive Vice President of Human Resources at Veracode, where she helped scale the company from 100 to more than 600 employees during a period of rapid growth and acquisition. Throughout her career, she has held senior leadership roles at Car.com, RSA Security, Unica, and IBM, guiding organizations through growth, talent development, and major organizational transitions.
Her expertise in leadership development. Talent management, and career advancement make her uniquely positioned to provide valuable insights for clinicians at every stage of their professional journey.
Ellen Girouard, PT, DPT / OrthoRI
Ellen received her Doctorate of Physical Therapy from Simmons University in 2016, following a Bachelor’s degree in Exercise Science from Simmons University in 2014. While at Simmons, she competed in Division III Cross Country and served as a member of the APTA Massachusetts student board. She was a recipient of the APTA NEXT Conference Scholarship where she attended PT Advocacy Day in D.C. and spoke individually with Congressman Joseph Kennedy III to request co- sponsorship for the “Safe Play” Act.
Ellen holds multiple advanced certifications, including Orthopedic Clinical Specialist (OCS), Dry Needling and Spinal Manipulation, Blood Flow Restriction Training, RunEasi Expert Certification, and UESCA Running Coach certification. She also serves as an affiliate in Sports Medicine at the University of Rhode Island, working with Division I athletes.
Ellen enjoys critically thinking through complex patient cases, motivating patients to implement strategies outside of the clinic, and helping individuals return to the activities they love most. Her clinical passions include post-operative rehabilitation, sports medicine, return-to-running mechanics, and performance-based care.
With extensive experience in marathon training, Ellen developed a strong passion for working with runners and created the Running Performance Clinic at Ortho Rhode Island, providing individualized programming to help athletes safely return to all running demands.
Outside of the clinic, Ellen enjoys traveling and cooking with her husband, Steve, marathon training, hiking with her dog Nala, beach days, pilates/yoga, and golf.
Kenneth Vinacco, PT, DPT, Board-Certified Clinical Specialist in Neurologic Physical Therapy / Brown University Health Outpatient Rehabilitation Services
Ken is also an associate professor in the Department of Physical Therapy at the University of Rhode Island and at Boston University. Ken graduated from The University of Rhode Island with his Doctorate of Physical Therapy and went on to complete Boston University’s Neurologic Physical Therapy Residency Program. He has completed the APTA Vestibular Rehabilitation Competency-Based Course at Emory University. Ken is passionate about working with individuals with Parkinson Disease, Multiple Sclerosis, stroke, and vestibular conditions. Currently, he participates in multidisciplinary clinics for people with Parkinson Disease, Multiple Sclerosis, Normal Pressure Hydrocephalus, Muscular Dystrophy, and those considering Deep Brain Stimulation. Additionally, Ken is the Secretary for the RI APTA, co-chair of the Neuro SIG, and assists with the production of the Academy of Neurologic Physical Therapy’s Degenerative Diseases Special Interest Group podcast, 4D: Deep Dive into Degenerative Diseases.
Hannah Scanlon, PT, DPT / NPT Healthworks
I’ve always been passionate about movement. Growing up involved in sports, I experienced firsthand the physical, mental, and social benefits of staying active. That early appreciation for the human body and exercise physiology sparked my interest in the medical field. During my undergraduate years, an internship with the PC Sports Medicine team solidified my desire to work with active individuals in a setting where clinicians could truly connect with patients and help them return to the activities they love.
I earned my Doctor of Physical Therapy degree from the University of Rhode Island in 2021 and have been part of the NPT HealthWorks team since May of that year. I have experience treating a wide range of orthopedic conditions, sports injuries, pre- and post-operative cases, chronic pain, and develop individualized running and strength training programs.
Lately, I’ve developed a strong interest in supporting women through peri- and post-menopause, helping them navigate changes in their health and wellness through education, exercise, and sustainable lifestyle strategies. I’m grateful for the opportunity to help people move better, feel stronger, and live more fully.
Danielle Moreau PT, DPT, PRPC, PCES, CCI (pronouns: she, her, hers) / Cultivate Pelvic Health and Physical Therapy
Danielle is a pelvic health physical therapist in Rhode Island. She earned her Doctorate in Physical Therapy from the University of Rhode Island in 2018 and brings a unique, whole-person perspective shaped by her background as a former NCAA Division III soccer player and her dual degree in Psychology and Movement Science from William Smith College. She has owned and operated her clinical practice Cultivate Pelvic Health Physical Therapy in North Kingstown, Rhode Island since 2024 and also coaches weekly strength and conditioning classes for the perinatal population in Wakefield, Rhode Island. Danielle’s professional ethos are rooted in delivering clinical excellence through person-centered, inclusive, and trauma-informed care. She holds advanced certifications including Pelvic Rehabilitation Practitioner Certification (PRPC), Pregnancy and Postpartum Corrective Exercise Specialist (PCES), Functional Dry Needling, and Credentialed Clinical Instructor (CCI). In addition to patient care, Danielle serves as faculty with the Herman & Wallace Pelvic Rehabilitation Institute and teaches in both the University of Rhode Island Doctor of Physical Therapy Program and the New England Institute of Technology PTA to DPT Transitional Program. Danielle remains actively involved in professional organizations, including APTA Rhode Island, the APTA Academy of Pelvic Health Physical Therapy, Pelvic Global, and the International Society for the Study of Women’s Sexual Health.
Mary Anne Ahlers, PTA / Highbar
Mary-Anne is the Clinic Director and a Physical Therapy Assistant at our Westerly clinic, where she’s known for her energetic approach to care and her ability to make every patient feel supported from day one. She specializes in orthopedics, sports injuries, balance and fall prevention, aquatics, and vestibular rehabilitation—helping patients of all ages regain confidence in their movement. As a leader, Mary-Anne is committed to creating a positive, collaborative clinic environment. She enjoys mentoring team members, supporting PTA growth and development, and ensuring patients receives individualized care.
Outside the clinic, you’ll find Mary-Anne out on a field, trail, or wave. She enjoys soccer, golfing, surfing, snowboarding, rollerblading, hiking, and country line dancing. When she’s not adventuring outdoors, she’s spending time with her two beloved fur babies.
Mario Santomassimo, PT, DPT / Pappas OPT
Mario Santomassimo earned his master’s degree from Rocky Mountain University of Health Professions. Prior to that, Mario obtained his Bachelor of Science degree in Physical Therapy from Northeastern University. Most recently, he earned his Transitional Doctor of Physical Therapy degree from Evidence in Motion.
Mario specializes in orthopedic/sports and is most interested in treating motivated individuals. He has previously held both OCS and SCS certifications. In his free time, Mario enjoys hiking, fitness, listening to Jimmy Buffett, and spending time at the beach with family and friends.
Josh Clare, PT, DPT / CCRI
Josh Clare is a physical therapist, educator, and mentor who teaches in the Physical Therapist Assistant program at the Community College of Rhode Island. With experience in outpatient orthopedics, home health, and cash-based practice, he enjoys helping students and young clinicians figure out their path in the profession and make the transition from school to practice. Josh especially enjoys talking about career development and the many directions a PT career can take. Outside of work, he’s a father of two, trains in jiu-jitsu, and spends plenty of time coaching and watching sports.
Dr. Michelle Fisette, PT, DPT, Dip. Osteopractic, FAAOMPT(c), Cert. DN, Cert. SMT, Cert. VCS / Contrology Physical Therapy
Michelle earned her Bachelor’s degree in Kinesiology from the University of Rhode Island, a Master’s degree in Physiotherapy with Honors from Robert Gordon University in Aberdeen, United Kingdom, and her Doctor of Physical Therapy from Northern Arizona University. She completed a Fellowship in Orthopedic Manual Therapy through the American Academy of Manipulative Therapy, also earning a Diploma in Osteopractic Medicine. Her advanced training includes spinal manipulation therapy, dry needling, and vestibular and concussion rehabilitation. Michelle works at Contrology Physical Therapy located in East Greenwich, RI.
Michelle is also a Medical Level 2 provider through the Titleist Performance Institute, specializing in the assessment and treatment of golfers. She is passionate about delivering individualized, evidence-based care through a one-on-one treatment model that allows her to fully apply advanced manual therapy techniques and provide the highest quality care tailored to each patient.
Outside of clinical practice, Michelle is an avid golfer who enjoys playing with friends, family, and her husband. She is a two-time club champion at Lake of Isles Golf Club and Alpine Country Club.
Trevor Williams, PT, DPT, SCS, CSCS / Elite PT
Trevor is a physical therapist currently working for Elite Physical Therapy in Providence, Rhode Island. He is an ABPTS-certified Sports Clinical Specialist, a Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist through the NSCA, and is dry needling certified.
His professional interests include sports rehabilitation and sports performance, with a focus on bridging the gap between rehabilitation and return to competitive play. Trevor also has a strong interest in concussion management, as he sustained multiple concussions throughout his own sporting career.
Working on the campus of Brown University affords him the opportunity to work with a wide variety of athletes across multiple sports, including baseball, football, rugby, ultimate frisbee, soccer, and many others.
Prior to his career as a Doctor of Physical Therapy, Trevor spent six years working as a Physical Therapist Assistant in Rhode Island. His experience as a PTA was primarily in orthopedics and outpatient neurological rehabilitation. While practicing as a PTA, Trevor returned to the University of Rhode Island to obtain his Bachelor of Science in Kinesiology and Exercise Science and ultimately his Doctor of Physical Therapy.
Trevor’s experience practicing as both a PTA and a DPT provides him with unique insight into the field of physical therapy. His in-depth knowledge of the educational pathways and career requirements for both professions allows him to manage and delegate his caseload with confidence. He also understands the nuances of each role and the challenges involved in transitioning from PTA to DPT.
Kristin Brown, PT, MS, DPT, Board-Certified Clinical Specialist in Pediatric Physical Therapy / Brown University Health Pediatric Rehabilitation Services
Kristin graduated from Boston University with her Masters of Physical Therapy in 2000 and Doctorate of Physical Therapy in 2002. She has been a Board-Certified Clinical Specialist in Pediatric Physical Therapy since 2011. Kristin is passionate about working with all children including pediatric hematology-oncology, children with complex medical conditions, adaptive equipment, and torticollis. Kristin is the clinical education liaison for outpatient Pediatric Rehabilitation, including undergraduate graduate, and doctoral level students and is also an APTA Certified Level 2 clinical instructor. Additionally, Kristin is a current Director for the RI APTA and co-chair of the Pediatric SIG. On a national level, she was a founding member and prior Vice Chair of the Academy of Oncologic Physical Therapy Pediatric Oncology SIG, prior member of an Academy of Oncologic Physical Therapy EDGE Task Force, prior State Pediatric Advocacy Liaison for the Academy of Pediatric Physical Therapy, co-chair of the Local Task Force for the Academy of Pediatric Physical Therapy Annual Meeting, and prior State Representative for the National Hemophilia Foundation Physical Therapy Working Group. Outside of the clinic, Kristin enjoys spending time with her family as well as reading, skiing, and going to Broadway shows.
Lori Currier, PT, CSRS / Encompass Health Rehab
Lori graduated from the University of New England with her BS degree in Physical Therapy and has over 30 years of experience working in acute rehab and acute care PT services. Lori has been a Certified Stroke Rehabilitation Specialist since 2013 and is currently working towards her Assistive Technology Certification through RESNA. Her specialty areas include amputation and spinal cord injury. She has also been a volunteer with Empower Spinal Cord Injury in various roles since 2018 supporting participants lead more independent lives.
