At Big Stone Therapies, we know that the best therapists are not only committed to their patients—but also to the next generation of professionals. That’s why we’re incredibly proud to share that Ramy Vandendriessche, PT, of our Marshall clinic, has been named Clinical Instructor of the Year by the Concordia University, St. Paul Doctor of Physical Therapy Program.
Ramy was nominated by DPT student Connor Bradley, who described how she challenged him in just the right ways—pushing him outside of his comfort zone while fostering confidence and independence. He praised her mentorship in clinical reasoning, advocacy, and interprofessional communication, all while creating a safe space for him to grow.
In April, Ramy received her award in person at Concordia’s DPT Awards Ceremony. Now, in August, we caught up with her to learn more about what this honor means and what fuels her passion for clinical instruction.
Q&A with Ramy Vandendriessche, PT
Q: What’s your approach to creating a valuable learning experience for students during their clinical rotation?
Ramy: I really rely on the student to let me know their learning style while also encouraging them to step outside their comfort zone. I believe in trying new things with a balance of guidance and independence—then learning from those experiences and applying that forward. I work to build a safe environment where students feel secure and confident in growing their independence. I also think self-reflection is huge—so I ask my students to give themselves feedback before I do!
Q: What do you think is most important when helping a student transition from classroom knowledge to real-world patient care?
Ramy: Prepping and talking through the plan. I always encourage discussion around barriers, potential sticky spots, and how we’ll adapt if things don’t go as expected. Planning to be flexible is key.
Q: How do you balance allowing students to struggle and learn with ensuring patient care stays top-notch?
Ramy: We decide in advance who will be responsible for which parts of the session. Once a student is ready, I step back and guide while they take the lead. I always make it clear I’ll jump in for anything urgent or safety-related—but otherwise, I want the student to shine in the areas they’ve prepared for.
Q: What have you learned about yourself or your profession by being a clinical instructor?
Ramy: Our profession depends on clinical education. These rotations prepare students to succeed in the real world, and if we want to keep moving forward as a field, we need committed clinical instructors who value the role and pour into students. That’s how we build strong future therapists and leaders.
Q: What does receiving this award mean to you personally and professionally?
Ramy: It’s incredibly rewarding. I think very highly of the CI/student relationship—I had amazing CI’s myself, and I still rely on what they taught me. I approach every rotation hoping to offer that same level of impact. Receiving this award affirms that what we do as CIs really does matter.
A Note from Our Team
Ramy’s colleagues across Big Stone Therapies were thrilled—but not surprised—to hear about her recognition.
“What I love is that the student didn’t just grow as a clinician—he grew in confidence. That takes things to a whole new level.”
— Pam Neugebauer, PT, Director of Operations
“What an amazing honor! I’ve heard this same feedback from multiple students. Ramy creates a safe place to struggle and grow—and that’s where the most meaningful learning happens.”
— Kayla Maas, BST Student Coordinator
“Ramy, this is so well-deserved. Your work as a clinical instructor makes a lasting difference.”
— April Farber, PT, DPT, ATRIC
Congratulations, Ramy!
From all of us at Big Stone Therapies—thank you for mentoring with purpose, leading with heart, and making the BIG difference in the lives of your students and patients alike.