The spring 2026 Physical Therapist Assistant graduates (l. to r.) are: Front row: Ashley Hissong, Eric Pearson, Clara Overland and Jaden Lindsey. Second row: Abby Franseen, Brianna Caito and Sue Lyons. Back row: Ethan Elders, Jae Traber and Brandon Millard.

Family, friends and instructors gathered on May 15 to celebrate 10 graduates of Blackhawk Technical College’s Physical Therapist Assistant (PTA) program at a pinning ceremony at the Beloit-Janesville Campus.

“This isn’t just a ceremony. It’s the closing of a chapter filled with so many shared memories,” said Jaden Lindsey, student speaker. “Today, we receive our pins as a symbol of everything we have accomplished. But what we carry forward means even more: resilience, compassion, knowledge, and the ability to make a difference in the lives of others.”

Blackhawk’s PTA program is a 69-credit associate degree that trains students to help patients improve movement problems from injury, illness or surgery. 

Congratulations to the following graduates:

• Brianna Caito, Deerfield
• Ethan Elders, Rockford, Illinois
• Abby Franseen, Beloit
• Ashley Hissong, Machesney Park, Illinois
• Jaden Lindsey, Monroe
• Sue Lyons, Stockton, Illinois
• Brandon Millard, Janesville
• Clara Overland, Blanchardville
• Eric Pearson, Machesney Park, Illinois
• Jae Traber, Burlington

Learn more about Blackhawk’s PTA program at blackhawk.edu/pta.