Paul Ullucci

Dr. Paul A. Ullucci, Jr. (pronounced: YouLouCHI) earned his Bachelor of Science in Physical Therapy from Northeastern University. After working in the field for more than 20 years he earned his Doctor of Physical Therapy degree and a PhD in Orthopedic and Sports Sciences from Rocky Mountain University of Health Professions. He has continuously worked as a physical therapist for over 35 years caring for orthopedic and sports related injuries. He was the first Board Certified Sports Clinical Specialist in the state of RI and has worked as an athletic trainer at the high school, collegiate, and professional level. Presently, Dr. Ullucci serves as the Founding Program Director for the Doctor of Physical Therapy program at UNCW.
Ullucci’s academic career includes two years at Fresno State University as director of their Musculoskeletal Care Clinic. Following this Ullucci acted as the Semester 1 Coordinator and Director of the Human Anatomy Laboratory at Sacred Heart University where he also taught in the BS/MS Athletic Training programs. He has been the Founding Program Director at both Bryant University and Johnson & Wales University where he also served as Associate Dean.
Ullucci has served on the NATA Board of Directors and served as treasurer of the RIAPTA and CTAPTA. He is a member of the NATA Hall of Fame and EATA 49' club member. He is an associate member and was an NPTE item writer for the FSBPT.

Education

Bachelor of Science in Physical Therapy from Northeastern University 1991, Doctor of Physical Therapy degree and a PhD in Orthopedic and Sports Sciences from Rocky Mountain University of Health Professions 2014.

Specialization in Teaching

Dr. Ullucci holds a "Certificate in Effective College Instruction" from the Association of College and University Educators.

Research Interests

Dr Ullucci research interest focus on musculoskeletal conditions involving the spine and pelvis which may contribute to concussive like symptoms, dizziness and headache.
Other research includes investigating efficacy of physical therapy interventions and treatment including assessing physical therapists’ efficacy in ordering imaging in a direct access environment.
He seeks to engage community and student partners while studying enhancing recovery with various types of physical modalities.

Professional Service

American Physical Therapy Association (APTA)
Guide to Physical Therapist Practice Revision Chapter 2 Editor (April 2022 – February 2023)
Guide to Physical Therapist Practice Revision Workgroup (July 2020 – February 2023)
PT Compact Board of Director - Rhode Island
PT C ompact Finance Committee 1/1/25-present
Federation of State Boards of Physical Therapy
3/2/21-5/1/25 Rhode Island: Alternate Delegate
3/20/20 Basic Item Writer Workshop (40 Questions)
Commission on Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities (CARF) - International Standards Advisory Committee: To develop Accreditation standards for Concussion Management Programs 2023
National Athletic Trainers Association (NATA)
2021- 22 Convention Program Reviewer
2016-2019 NATA Health Care Reform Workgroup: committee member
2013-2015 NATA Vision Quest Workgroup #4c co-chair – Research initiatives
2011-2015 NATA Vision Quest Workgroup # 4a Chair – Advocacy Research
2012-2014 NATA Secretary/Treasurer
2011-2014 Finance Committee
2005-2010 NATA H&A Committee – Most Distinguished Athletic Trainer
1996-2001 NATA - Clinical, Industrial and Corporate Committee member
Reviewer Primal Pictures (anatomy TV), Physiotherapy Theory and Practice, International Journal of Sports Physical Therapy, Journal of Athletic Training, Journal of Strength and Conditioning

Community Engagement

Ullucci was appointed by the Governor of Rhode Island to the Physical Therapy Licensure Board from 2020-5/1/25, having previously been appointed to the Athletic Training Licensure Board from 2004-2014.
Assistant Scout Master Troop 45 Dighton, MA 2014-2021
Merit Badge Counselor Anawon & Narragansett Council Boy Scouts of America: First Aid, Emergency Preparedness, Public Speaking, Chess, Cooking
Anawon & Narragansett Council Boy Scouts of America 2014-2021
Central Valley Concussion Consortium 2014-16

Honors & Awards

Hall of Fame – National Athletic Trainers’ Association, June 2023.

People Focused. Solutions Driven – Bryant University, Human Resources Department September 2020.

Hall of Fame “The 49’ Club” – Eastern Athletic Trainers Association. January 2018.

Presenter: Pinky Newell Address – Eastern Athletic Trainers Association. January 2016

Most Distinguished Athletic Trainer - National Athletic Trainers Association. June 2015

RIATA Hall of Fame – RI Athletic Trainers Association. January 2014

Athletic Trainer Service Award – National Athletic Trainers Association. June 2010

Cramer Award – Eastern Athletic Trainers Association. January 2009

Blankenship Award - Eastern Athletic Trainers Association. January 2007

Mary McMillan Scholarship Award - American Physical Therapy Association. June 1991