Each year, the University System of Maryland (USM) Board of Regents recognizes individuals who have shown excellence in mentoring, teaching, public service, scholarship or research, and creative activity. These awards are the highest honor presented to exemplary faculty across 12 universities in the State of Maryland. On April 26, 2026, Dr. Michael Rabel was recognized by the University System of Maryland for his outstanding work and received the Board of Regents’ Faculty Award for Excellence in Mentoring.
Dr. Rabel has served as a full-time faculty member since 2007, was tenured in 2013, and promoted to the rank of professor in 2023. As a physical therapist educator and Department Chair, he has consistently prioritized mentorship as a central component of his professional mission. He has demonstrated a commitment to developing reflective, skilled, and socially conscious physical therapy professionals. His reach extends into the community, as Dr. Rabel has guided students conducting outreach to vulnerable communities, such as individuals experiencing homelessness. Over the course of his full-time academic career, he has mentored faculty, staff, and over 500 Doctor of Physical Therapy students in 19 graduating cohorts, across multiple dimensions of their academic, clinical, and professional development. Congratulations to our esteemed Department Chair!
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