NEO A&M College honors graduates at Physical Therapist Assistant Pinning Ceremony
MIAMI, Okla. — Northeastern Oklahoma A&M College (NEO) celebrated eight graduates from the Physical Therapist Assistant (PTA) Program during the annual Pinning Ceremony on Thursday, August 14, 2025. The event recognized the hard work, dedication, and achievements of the Class of 2025 as they prepare to begin their careers in physical therapy.
The ceremony began with introductory remarks and an invocation from Dr. Dawn Smathers, Physical Therapist Assistant Program Director, and faculty member Klayton Bridges, followed by a welcome and introductions from NEO President Dr. Kyle Stafford.
Graduates honored at the ceremony included:
- Skyler Austin
- Brian Banks
- Lylah Carter
- Aubrey Gebhart
- Bayley Lansford
- Seth Lowery
- Camila Portillo
- Miranda Weldon
PTA pins were presented to each graduate, symbolizing their transition from students to professional caregivers.
The event also recognized the PTA Club officers for their leadership:
- President & SBG Representative: Lylah Carter
- Vice President: Seth Lowery
- Secretary/Treasurer: Miranda Weldon
Special honors were awarded during the ceremony, including:
- Sidney Morgan Memorial Scholarship: Brian Banks
- Academic PTA Student of the Year: Skyler Austin
- Clinical Student of the Year: Miranda Weldon
“This graduating class marks the 28th cohort of students to complete the physical therapist assistant program,” said Dr. Smathers. “As part of a small, close-knit program, these students benefitted from dedicated faculty who served not only as instructors, but also as mentors and guides throughout their journey. Along the way, they formed strong bonds and provided unwavering support to one another. They faced and overcame personal obstacles, demonstrating the grit and determination needed for lifelong success. While serving in the community, each student was praised for their empathy, compassion, and skilled hands-on care that helped patients achieve meaningful improvements. We are confident they will carry these qualities into their careers and make a lasting impact in the lives of the patients and communities they serve.”
This year’s graduating class also achieved remarkable academic milestones:
- First cohort in the last decade to have every student pass the comprehensive 180-question Exit Exam on the first attempt.
- Set program records in five out of ten exam categories: Neuromuscular & Nervous System, Cardiovascular & Pulmonary Systems, Other Systems, Equipment/Devices/Technology & Modalities, and the largest increase (4%) in Diseases & Conditions that Impact Effective Treatment.
- All students became eligible to take the Licensing Exam before graduation.
- Achieved the highest first-time and overall class average in program history—687 points (passing score: 600)—scoring 18% higher than the national average.
- Every student passed the Licensing Exam on their first attempt.
The ceremony concluded with recognition of the class’s accomplishments, highlighting their exceptional academic performance, dedication to patient care, and teamwork.