Dale C. Deubler has dedicated many years of her career to improving the quality of students’ education and increasing opportunities for learning.

As a clinical instructor at Ohio State, Deubler teaches pediatric physical therapy, ethics, advocacy, current aspects of health care and education policy, and the impact of legislation on physical therapists.

“Dale’s efforts to enrich the lives and educational experiences of Ohio State students go well beyond her role as a clinical instructor,” wrote Deborah L. Givens, director and associate professor of the physical therapy division in the School of Allied Medical Professions, in her nomination letter.

Deubler mentors students who pursue an interdisciplinary specialization in early intervention/early childhood while in the doctor of physical therapy program. She also was influential in creating a residency in pediatric physical therapy, which involved partnering with Nationwide Children’s Hospital and the Nisonger Center. It was the second such residency in the country to be credentialed.

“Dale’s passion for pediatrics is another reason why Ohio State is nationally known as one of the top programs for pediatric physical therapy education and attracts students who are eager for this experience,” wrote Givens.

Deubler also is an academic adviser and active alumna for the Rho chapter of Alpha Phi sorority at Ohio State.

“Dale continually goes above and beyond her assigned duties,” wrote chapter adviser Dawn Bauer. “She monitors grades and meets with any women who are in need of extra support or assistance. Dale spends countless hours making sure that the women in the sorority are meeting their academic potential.”

In addition, Deubler co-organized the School of Allied Medical Professions’ global health service learning course to give students an elective international service option with underserved populations. In 2008, students spent 12 days consulting and treating patients and repairing medical equipment at schools and clinics in Merida, Mexico.

Debra Nickoli, who was among the nine students who made the trip, called the experience “one of the most important in each of our careers.”

“A service learning experience like this could not exist without a coordinated leader like Dale,” wrote Nickoli. “It is clear to every participant and patient encountered that Dale cares deeply about each individual, and was willing to put in the extra time and effort to make the service learning trip the best it could be."

Deubler is a member of the American Physical Therapy Association’s section on pediatrics and its education committee, and she belongs to the physical therapy section of the Ohio Occupational Physical and Athletic Training Board. She also serves on the comprehensive system of personnel development committee for HELP ME GROW, the state’s birth–3 program.

“Students and faculty alike respect Dale for her dedication to Ohio State student life, leadership by example, high levels of performance and professionalism, and generous heart,” wrote Givens.