Nelson graduated in May 2002 from Elon University in Elon with her master’s degree in physical therapy. Part of her training included four clinical affiliations, two of which were in orthopedic practices.

Her clinical and professional experiences have been varied with opportunities to evaluate and treat many diagnoses such as stroke, total joint replacements, traumatic brain injuries, Parkinson’s, temporomandibular joint dysfunction, shoulder impingement, tendonitis, plantar fasciitis, and low back pain.

Nelson has always had a special interest in orthopedic practice because of its diverse and challenging caseload. Upon graduation, she accepted a position with a private practice in Harrisonburg, Va., treating primarily outpatient orthopedic patients, where she has worked from May 2002 until now.

She also has had opportunity to work in home health and skilled nursing care settings. Her special interests include headaches and injuries to the shoulder and lower extremity. Nelson is currently pursuing her doctorate of physical therapy through Elon University. She will graduate June 20. Her current classes have focused on evidence-based practice, wellness and nutrition, pharmacology, radiology, manual therapy, and differential diagnosis.

Prior to attending physical therapy school, Nelson obtained her bachelor’s degree in biology at Randolph-Macon College in Ashland, Va. She played basketball for two years and was a member of Beta Beta Beta.

Nelson’s interest in the game prompted her decision to accept a position with Body Balance for Performance physical therapy and golf fitness here in Pinehurst. She also enjoys spending time with her family. She is a native of Stuart, Va., where her family still resides.

Walter Honored

On Monday evening, April 26, Dr. George R. Walter was honored at a dinner celebration in Pembroke at Sheff’s Restaurant.

Walter is entering the UNC system “Phased Retirement” program in the fall, after teaching in the music department at UNCP for 37 years. He served as chairman of the department for the last 9 years. He will continue to teach half time for up to 3 additional years.

Faculty colleagues, music department alumni and friends, and current music students totaled 150 in attendance for the dinner and program presented in Walter’s honor. The Walter family were the honored guests, including wife, Norma, daughter, Adrienne Lee, son-in-law, Joe Lee, from Atlanta, Ga., and son, Mark, from Boston.

Beth Maisonpierre served as Master of Ceremonies for the program. She noted Dr. Walter’s many accomplishments during his tenure at UNCP, including seeing the department grow to 100 majors and doubling the number of full-time faculty. It was under Walter’s leadership as chairman that the department began a bachelor’s degree in musical theatre and a master’s degree in music education.

During the evening, Walter received several gifts including a plaque from the Office of Academic Affairs. The plaque was presented to him by Dr. Roger Brown, provost and vice chancellor for academic affairs. He also was given a notebook of letters of remembrance written to Walter by invited guests.

An announcement was made of a $1000 honorarium in Walter’s name to be given to the University Music Society. This was collected from a variety of individuals and will be used for student scholarships.

Especially noteworthy was the presentation of the Orpheus Award by Phi Mu Alpha Sinfonia president, Christopher Pittman. The Orpheus Award is presented to a person who has significantly and lastingly contributed to the cause of music in America. Governor approval is required for each Orpheus Award.

Walter also received the “Order of the Long Leaf Pine” award. This is the sate of North Carolina’s highest honor presented to a civilian for dedication and extended length of service to his or her organization. Others who have received this honor include Dr. Billy Graham, Maya Angelou, and Charles Kuralt.

Walter lives in Southern Pines and is the organist at Our Savior Lutheran Church.

New Agent

The Wade S. Dunbar Insurance Agency Inc., a multiple-lines independent insurance agency, has announced that Ann L. Hooker has joined the company as a commercial lines insurance marketing specialist.