Misericordia University Professor Honored for Distinguished Community Service

Misericordia University Professor Honored for Distinguished Community Service

DALLAS, PA — Maureen Rinehimer, PT, PhD, MS, MHS, NIDCAP Certified, Mercy Associate and Associate Professor in the Physical Therapy Department at Misericordia University, has been awarded the Executive Director's Recognition Award by The Arc of Northeastern Pennsylvania. The award was presented during the organization’s 69th Annual Meeting and Awards Luncheon held on July 24, 2025, at La Buona Vita in Dunmore.

The award honors Dr. Rinehimer’s outstanding dedication to advancing community inclusion and her efforts to foster meaningful engagement between Misericordia University students and individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

Dr. Rinehimer was recognized for her leadership in coordinating a series of impactful events hosted on the Misericordia University campus, as well as her continued support of the annual Buddy Walk, a community event that celebrates individuals with Down syndrome and promotes advocacy, acceptance, and inclusion. Through these initiatives, Dr. Rinehimer has championed service-learning opportunities that connect students with community members in ways that are mutually enriching and deeply meaningful.

The Arc’s annual awards luncheon recognizes individuals and organizations whose work exemplifies advocacy, service, and support for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Dr. Rinehimer was one of several distinguished honorees celebrated during the program.

For more information about Misericordia University’s Physical Therapy program and its community outreach efforts, visit www.misericordia.edu/pt. To learn more about The Arc of Northeastern Pennsylvania, visit www.thearcnepa.org.