Dr. Sandy L. Burkart, founding member and past chair of the WVU Division of Physical Therapy passes away at 80

Dr. Sandy L. Burkart PT, PhD, renowned physical therapist and educator, passed away on March 13, 2024, at the age of 80. Dr. Burkart was a founding faculty member for the WVU Division of Physical Therapy, serving as chairperson of the division from 1979-1994. 

His work at WVU resulted in him being awarded the American Physical Therapy Association’s Excellence in Clinical Teaching Award and allowed him to travel around the nation and internationally as a speaker and educator on Orthopedic Physical Therapy.

Dr. Mary Beth Mandich, Health Professions Vice Dean, expressed the significance of the loss to those who knew and worked with him. 

“Dr. Burkart was a dynamic force who took on professional challenges with great passion and a quest for understanding. He played an integral role in the education of many physical therapists over the years, both at the professional and post-professional levels. He was also very engaged with international causes, through a number of organizations, including the Rotary club. His life’s work will continue as his legacy is carried out through all of the lives he touched. This includes his daughter who is a current faculty member in the WVU Division of PT and is the first board-certified physical therapist in oncology in the state. She has been a key player in developing high-quality rehabilitation services for individuals dealing with cancer and chronic pain.”

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Sierra Leone Rising (sierraleonerising.org/donate).