Award Honorees

Laura (Hampson) Neighbors '09 has built an impressive career in physical therapy, driven by a deep commitment to helping others. She is widely-regarded as an expert in her field and is known for being a compassionate physical therapist, committed to helping patients with neurological conditions.

Neighbors' journey into healthcare began at Minnetonka High School, where she took several health sciences classes. She also volunteered at the Courage Center, teaching therapeutic skiing lessons to children with disabilities. After graduation, Neighbors went on to earn a BS in health & human physiology at the University of Iowa in 2013. She then pursued a Doctorate in physical therapy from Creighton University in Omaha, Nebraska.

While Neighbors already intended to build a career in physical therapy, it was her father's Parkinson's Disease diagnosis that cemented her interest in the intersection of physical therapy and neurological disease.

"My Dad was diagnosed with Parkinson's as I was about to enter physical therapy school," said Neighbors. "This made me quite interested in neurological diseases and how physical therapy could help people with this diagnosis and other neurological diseases live with the best quality of life possible."

In 2016, Neighbors joined the Courage Kenny Rehabilitation Institute—the same organization she had volunteered with in high school. At Courage Kenny, she began her career in the Transitional Rehabilitation Unit, helping patients recover from spinal cord injuries, strokes and traumatic brain injuries. Today, she provides outpatient therapy for patients with neurological conditions. Neighbors is also a dedicated mentor, guiding physical therapy students through their internships.

"It is very rewarding to run into former patients, which happens frequently, and see them moving around better than when I last saw them," said Neighbors.

Neighbors commitment to service extends beyond her job. After her father’s diagnosis, she became involved with the local Parkinson’s Foundation, serving on the planning committee for fundraising. Over the years, she has helped plan several major galas to fund research into curing Parkinson's.

Neighbors' work, both professionally and in the community, reflects a profound commitment to improving lives. She is a leader in her field and will continue to impact countless lives for years to come.

To current students, Neighbors recommends doing as much as they can. "Explore a variety of electives and extracurricular activities that Minnetonka has to offer because these may help spark your interest or passion in something that will turn into a successful career."