The American Council of Academic Physical Therapy (ACAPT) is delighted to introduce its new executive director, Dr. Celia Zamora, PhD, CAE, effective February 10, 2025.
Dr. Zamora has extensive experience working with associations, boards and volunteers in education. With a commitment to strategic planning, inclusion, membership engagement, and operational excellence, she will be instrumental in guiding ACAPT through its next phase of organizational growth and impact.
“We are thrilled Dr. Zamora is joining the team,” said Dr. Kimberly Varnado, ACAPT President of the Board of Directors, “She brings dynamic ideas for leveraging technology to support and connect members of the ACAPT community. Dr. Zamora deeply understands and embraces ACAPT’s mission to champion innovation, inclusion, and inquiry in academic physical therapy.”
Prior to joining ACAPT, Dr. Zamora was the director of professional learning and certification at the American Council on the Teaching of Foreign Languages (ATCFL), where she was an empathetic and empowering leader, creating a pro-bono mentoring program for young professionals in underserved communities. She also served as the inaugural chair of the new CAE Registered Provider Committee, chair of the task force on neurodiversity for the ASAE Research Foundation, and is a Certified Association Executive. Aside from her many accomplishments, Dr. Zamora leads her life with energy and positivity, putting family first and competing in marathons.
“Just as I approach marathon running—with perseverance, strategy, and a commitment to the finish line—I plan to lead ACAPT with that same drive, ensuring we continue to push boundaries, set new standards, and celebrate the incredible accomplishments of our physical therapy academic community,” said Dr. Zamora.
A welcome event will be held at the Combined Sections Meeting (CSM) in Houston on Thursday, February 13, 2025 from 7:00 – 8:00 pm CST. We invite all members to join us in celebrating this exciting new chapter for ACAPT. For more information, email acapt@acapt.org.