Transforming the lives of students through philanthropy.
Dr. Catherine Certo’s journey with the University of Hartford began in 1997, when she was recruited to lead the development of the University’s Physical Therapy program. Dr. Certo’s leadership helped shape UHart’s Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) program by 2010.
As she worked closely with students in her program, she became acutely aware of the financial challenges they faced. Dr. Certo decided to be proactive to help ensure financial assistance to all students in need for the DPT Program. This led to the creation of an endowed scholarship in 2008 specifically for DPT students. Dr. Certo supported this scholarship through payroll deductions and reached out to alumni to contribute. The scholarship has been pivotal in helping students complete the rigorous seven-year program, ensuring that financial hardship would not be a barrier to their education.
Dr. Certo continued to give to this scholarship, and also in support of athletics at UHart, throughout her career. Following retirement, she continues to give through monthly automatic payments and has been a loyal member of the Rosen Society for 20 years. Her dedication to her students was deeply personal so it was an easy decision to maintain her support. Her commitment was so profound that, upon her retirement in 2023, the scholarship was renamed in her honor—becoming the Dr. Catherine Certo DPT Endowed Scholarship. This scholarship will support students in overcoming obstacles and realizing their goals in perpetuity thanks to Dr. Certo and many faculty and alumni who have given to it.
Dr. Caterine Certo, University of Hartford's Friend and DonorWhen I come to campus, I feel good because I can still connect with students and can communicate with them to engage, and share with them the value of this scholarship.
Reflecting on the long-term impact of her contributions, Dr. Certo shared how meaningful it is to hear from her past students and families, who often express gratitude for the scholarship that has helped them through difficult times. Many of these students have gone on to become exceptional professionals, contributing back to the field in meaningful ways. Dr. Certo encourages DPT alumni to give back to help strengthen the program she worked hard to build. Even though she is retired, she continues to engage with the university and its students. She regularly encourages giving, even asking students to donate on UHart’s Day of Giving, instilling in them the importance of philanthropy and community support.
Catherine shares "When I come to campus, I feel good because I can still connect with students, and I can communicate with them to engage, and share with them the value of this scholarship. I made a commitment to UHart, so I was allowed to build this program and committed to making it the best it could be. Even today, as a retired UHart member, I reflect on my career journey and can proudly say I worked hard to be better than other schools and prove that UHart can do this and be successful. It was worth it.”
Dr. Certo’s ties to UHart are vibrant. Today, she volunteers at a bakery in East Granby, Connecticut, owned and operated by Dr. Naima Millette Craft ’07, D ’10, a former student and international graduate of UHart’s DPT program. Catherine enjoys her time at the bakery and has become like family to Naima. Dr. Certo’s story is one of passion, perseverance, and a deep commitment to making a difference in the lives of UHart students. Through her scholarship, mentorship, and community work, she has transformed the lives of many students and continues to inspire others to contribute to the future of UHart.