South University, Richmond

05/28/2026

South University’s Sigma Theta Tau chapter, Phi Kappa, proudly participated in this year’s March for Babies Walk, supporting healthier pregnancies, stronger beginnings, and brighter futures for moms and babies.

The Phi Kappa–Richmond team, led by Dr. Terri Clinger, walked on May 9, 2026, joining communities nationwide in raising funds for vital research, family resources, and support for premature infants.

The Phi Kappa–Tampa team, led by Dr. Karrin Laari, will continue the effort as they took part in the walk on May 16, 2026.

Together, the Richmond and Tampa campuses have raised more than $300 for the March of Dimes, an incredible show of compassion, teamwork, and commitment to healthier families.

We are proud of our students, faculty, and leaders for stepping up and making a meaningful impact.

05/26/2026

As Mental Health Awareness Month soon comes comes to a close, we are proud to spotlight one of our inspiring South University alumni making a meaningful impact in the counseling profession. 💙

Meet Laura Giraldo, a 2016 South University, West Palm Beach Clinical Mental Health Counseling graduate whose journey from student to counselor, educator, private practice owner, consultant, and industry leader is nothing short of inspiring.✨

From supporting clients in diverse mental health settings to helping shape the future of counseling through leadership, mentorship, and education, Laura continues to make a difference in the lives of others every day. Her story is a powerful reminder of the impact compassionate mental health professionals can have within their communities and beyond.

“Chase your dreams, and remember that a degree is not a race. Slow and steady gets you to the finish line.” — Laura Giraldo

Read more about Laura’s inspiring journey and leadership in the counseling field
➡️ https://bit.ly/4wNYlBe or ⬇️

Learn how South University's Clinical Mental Health Counseling program helped Laura Giraldo become a private practice owner, educator, and leader.

05/25/2026

Today, South University honors and remembers the brave men and women who made the ultimate sacrifice in service to our country. 🇺🇸

On this Memorial Day, we reflect with gratitude on the courage, selflessness, and dedication of those who gave their lives to protect the freedoms we enjoy each day. We also extend our deepest appreciation to the military families and loved ones who carry their legacies forward.

May we never forget the true meaning of this day and the heroes who made it possible. ❤️🤍💙

05/21/2026

📌 Friendly Reminder - Campus and Online services will be closed on Monday, May 25th in observance of Memorial Day. 🇺🇸

05/21/2026

to an incredible evening at South University, Richmond! 🎉✨

Our Career & Education Expo brought together future healthcare professionals, community partners, faculty, staff, and so much positive energy all under one roof. From exploring Nursing, PTA, PA, and more, prospective students got a firsthand look at the hands-on learning and supportive community that make South University special.

A huge thank you again to our amazing community partners: VCU Health, the Central Virginia Chapter National Black Nurses Association, and HCA Healthcare / Doctor's Hospital, for helping inspire the next generation, and to Slideways Mobile Bistro for bringing the delicious eats! 💼🍔👏

We loved meeting so many future Stingrays and are excited to relive some of the highlights with this recap video. The future is bright! 🎥✨

05/20/2026

🩺✨ Stingrays showed UP in New Orleans!

South University Physician Assistant students brought the energy, knowledge, and school spirit to the 2026 American Academy of Physician Associates (AAPA) Challenge Bowl during the AAPA Conference this week! 🧠🏆

We’re proud to celebrate both South University, West Palm Beach and South University, Richmond PA student teams for advancing to the Quarterfinal Round — with our Richmond team continuing all the way to the Semifinals! 🎉

From intense competition moments to educational sessions, networking opportunities, and conference experiences with PA students and professionals from across the country, this was an unforgettable week of learning, growth, and representing South University on a national stage.

A special congratulations to South University, Richmond clinical students Brenna, Liv, Maddie, and Amelia for their outstanding semifinal performance and for representing the Stingray family with excellence, professionalism, and teamwork every step of the way. 💙🧡

What a week. What a team. What a time to be a South University PA Stingray! 🌟

Music / Audio Credit:
Song - I Lived
Artist - One Republic

Send a message to learn more

05/19/2026

We are incredibly proud of the South University Richmond Physician Assistant (PA) Program’s 2026 American Academy of Physician Associates (AAPA) Challenge Bowl Team! 🎉

Our clinical students represented the South Stingrays with excellence, advancing all the way to the semifinal round of the competition! 🏆

Beyond their outstanding performance, they made the most of their time in New Orleans by attending educational sessions, exploring the latest medical technology in the exhibit hall, networking with fellow students and practicing PAs, and enjoying an unforgettable conference experience.

Congratulations to our Class of 2027 clinical students - Brenna, Liv, Maddie, and Amelia - your hard work, professionalism, and team spirit made us so proud. 💙

05/19/2026

What a GREAT day to be a South University PA Stingray! 🩺 🏅

South University PA students proudly competed in the 2026 AAPA Challenge Bowl in New Orleans, Louisiana, on Monday, May 18, 2026. We’re excited to share that both South University, West Palm Beach and South University, Richmond Physician Assistant student teams advanced to the Quarterfinal Round, with South U, Richmond continuing on to the Semifinal Round! 🧠

Congratulations to all of the teams that participated in this year’s Challenge Bowl! 🏆
Beyond the competition, our students had an incredible opportunity to connect with fellow PA students and practicing PAs from across the country while participating in valuable educational sessions throughout the conference.

We are so proud of all of our Stingrays for representing South University with excellence and school spirit! 💙🌟🧡

05/18/2026

🌞 🌞

“Without mental health there can be no true physical health." - Dr Brock Chisholm

This Mental Health Awareness Month, remember to give yourself grace, prioritize self-care, and support those around you. At South University, we believe wellness and success go hand in hand. 🧡

05/15/2026

✨ ✨

Meet Laura Thoene, PT, DPT, and Assistant Professor in the Physical Therapist Assistant Program at South University, Richmond! 💙

With more than two decades of experience in patient-centered care, Dr. Thoene brings an incredible depth of clinical knowledge, compassion, and leadership to both her students and the physical therapy profession. Her career has spanned a variety of healthcare settings, allowing her to provide students with real-world insight and hands-on expertise that help prepare the next generation of healthcare professionals.

Dr. Thoene earned her Doctor of Physical Therapy degree from the University of Southern California & her Bachelor of Science in Biology from Shippensburg University. Transitioning from direct patient care into higher education opened a new chapter in her professional journey, one fueled by a passion for mentorship, lifelong learning, and student success.

Committed to continuing her own educational and leadership growth, Dr. Thoene is currently pursuing an Ed.D. in Educational Leadership from Virginia Commonwealth University (VCU). Today, we are celebrating her acceptance into the American Physical Therapy Association (APTA) Leadership Scholars program, an exciting achievement that combines her passions for education, leadership, advocacy, and the future of physical therapy. 👏

Beyond the classroom, Dr. Thoene has served as the Fun Fitness Clinical Director since 2009, working with talented athletes from across Virginia. Through this role, she has gained valuable experience supporting individuals with both visible and invisible disabilities, further strengthening her commitment to inclusive care, wellness, and adaptive athletics.🦵🧡

When she’s not teaching or advancing the profession of physical therapy, Dr. Thoene enjoys spending time with her family. She and her husband (who is also a physical therapist) are raising two active children and can often be found participating in fun runs, marathons, and triathlons together! 🏃‍♀️🏅

Thank you, Dr. Thoene, for your dedication to education, advocacy, leadership, and empowering future PTA professionals at South University, Richmond! APTA Virginia - formerly VPTA