Mariah Williams, PNWU School of Physical Therapy Class of 2025
Student Doctor Mariah Williams’s journey to PNWU is paved by an unwavering commitment to care, service, and leadership. As a proud Alaskan Native American and the first graduate student in her family, Student Doctor Williams’s path to becoming a Doctor of Physical Therapy was ignited by a passion born in a moment of crisis — a defining experience that forever altered the course of her life.
When a close family member suffered a severe traumatic brain injury and was placed in a medically induced coma, Student Dr. Williams rushed to the ICU. What she encountered in those high-stakes moments forever changed her.
Watching physical therapists work tirelessly to help her loved one regain strength, she admired not just their technical skills, but the profound human connection that was at the heart of their healing process.
“It was about understanding the whole person, connecting with them at their most vulnerable, and being part of their recovery journey.”
“In that moment, I realized physical therapy was more than just about restoring function,” explained Student Dr. Williams. “It was about understanding the whole person, connecting with them at their most vulnerable, and being part of their recovery journey.”
Inspired, Student Doctor Williams set out to pursue a career in physical therapy – one that would allow her to truly make a real difference in the lives of others.
Immersing herself in healthcare, she began exploring how to make the most meaningful impact. As a Behavioral Interventionist, she witnessed firsthand the challenges that many vulnerable individuals face in a healthcare system that is often difficult to navigate, learning the importance of self-advocacy and how critical it is to fight for the needs of those in need. These lessons deepened her desire to advocate for equitable healthcare access, particularly for marginalized communities that are frequently overlooked.
Today, as she prepares to graduate with PNWU’s inaugural School of Physical Therapy class, she continues to hone her leadership skills, collaborating with interdisciplinary teams, developing innovative solutions, and spearheading efforts to bring meaningful change to the community. Her involvement in outreach programs, such as Walk with a Future Doc and Parkinson’s Exercise Groups, has reinforced her belief in the power of compassionate, patient-centered care.
“I want to ensure that everyone, regardless of their background or financial status, has access to the care they need.”
“I want to ensure that everyone, regardless of their background or financial status, has access to the care they need,” said Student Dr. Williams. Through advocacy, research, and patient care, she hopes to make a lasting impact on the healthcare system, breaking down the barriers that limit access and ensuring that communities receive the care they deserve.
