This is part of a series of Q&As introducing faculty who have joined the College of Health Sciences for the 2024–25 academic year. Meet all of our new faculty members.

Dana Chole

Assistant teaching professor, Department of Physical Therapy

What classes are you teaching this semester?

I will assist with Pediatric Physical Therapy, Clinical Evaluation and Procedures and oversee students treating pediatric patients in the PhysZOU clinic.

Tell us about yourself. What is your background?

I graduated from Mizzou PT in 2014 and started a career in outpatient pediatrics here at MU Health Care. I’ve always been interested in teaching and returning to the classroom setting.

What brought you to Mizzou? To your field?

I have been at Mizzou since 2009 — from undergraduate studies to PT school to MU Health Care, and now back to the academic side! Once a Tiger, always a Tiger!  My strong interest in human anatomy and fitness brought me to become a PT, alongside a strong passion for working with children with disabilities, which led me to become a pediatric PT.

What is your favorite thing about your job?

It’s a joy to see when a topic or concept “clicks” for the students! I am also excited to be involved in multiple classes throughout the PT program, allowing me to see the students grow throughout their three years.

What has you excited for this semester?

We are piloting a new group exercise program for kids with cerebral palsy in our PhysZOU clinic called emPOWER. It will include a focus on strength, power and aerobic exercise for our kiddos, and it will be BIG FUN!

What is a fun hobby or activity that you enjoy outside of work?

My husband and I have three young girls who keep us busy! We are often at the soccer fields, on the trails or at a park on the weekends. We also love to cheer on all Mizzou sports and the St. Louis City SC soccer team!