Norman Belleza PT, DPT, PhD
Graduate College of Health Sciences - Department of Physical Therapy
ASSOCIATE PROFESSOR
Norman Belleza, PT, DPT, PhD is an Associate Professor and completed his Bachelor of Life Sciences and entry-level Master of Physical Therapy from Loma Linda University. Dr. Belleza then received his transitional Doctor of Physical Therapy from Temple University. In addition, he attained his academic terminal degree with a Doctor of Philosophy in Education from Walden University. Dr. Belleza is presenting nationally and internationally, and has numerous publications in the emerging field of simulation in rehabilitation education with a focus on interprofessional education.
Dr. Belleza has served in many academic leadership positions including dual roles as Co-Chair for the College of Health Professions overseeing campuses in five States as well as the Founding Program Director for the PTA program for South University in Virginia Beach, VA from 2011-2014. In the summer of 2014, an opportunity opened on the West Coast for Dr. Belleza to join the DPT residential program at the University of St. Augustine for Health Sciences (USAHS) in San Marcos, California. From 2014-2024, he served as an Associate Professor and the Founding Director of Interprofessional Education. During his time at USAHS, he was the recipient of the 2019 Board Excellence Award—Excellence in Innovation. He also was honored by the University’s President and Chief Academic Officer in November 2022 for excellence in scholarship for the USAHS Scholarship Symposium.
Additionally, Dr. Belleza is one of 102 individuals from 13 countries worldwide to receive advanced credentialing as a Certified Healthcare Simulation Educator – Advanced ® (CHSE–A ®). In recognition of his clinical work, academic leadership, and scholarly contributions, Dr. Belleza was honored to be inducted in the Class of 2024 as a Distinguished Scholar Fellow for the National Academies of Practice. Dr. Belleza is excited to join the 'ohana of Hawai'i Pacific University in Las Vegas and looks forward to continued career growth and to welcome students to this innovative teaching model and hybrid program.
