Rocky Mountain University of Health Professions (RMU) was recognized with three prestigious 2025 Best of State awards. The Provo-based graduate healthcare institution won awards for curriculum development, leadership, and student success.
As a testament to RMU’s vision of advancing the quality, delivery, and efficacy of healthcare, the University received recognition from the Best of State organization, Utah’s premier recognition and awards program, for the following categories:
- Best University Administrator: President Cameron K. Martin
- Best University Student: Garrett Parry, physician assistant student
- Best Curriculum Development: RMU Occupational Therapy Department
“Our commitment to excellence in graduate healthcare education drives everything we do here at RMU,” said Dr. Malissa Martin, executive vice president of academic affairs & provost. “For more than 26 years, our students, faculty, and academic programs have had a meaningful impact in healthcare across the nation.”
Since 2010, the Best of State awards have annually recognized individuals, organizations, and businesses that exemplify excellence, use innovation, and contribute to a better quality of life in Utah.
“Utah is home to so many remarkable individuals and organizations, and I’m deeply honored that RMU has once again been recognized with the Best of State awards,” said RMU President & CEO Cameron K. Martin. “We are proud of RMU’s innovative educational programs, and seeing the occupational therapy department recognized for all they have accomplished is incredible. We are grateful to be based in Utah while offering educational opportunities to healthcare professionals and students nationwide.”
Best University Administrator: President Cameron K. Martin
For the second consecutive year, President Martin has been recognized for his leadership in an evolving higher education landscape. Through his ability to inspire and unify, President Martin brings together faculty, staff, students, and external partners to move the institution forward. He is responsible for aligning strategies and resources to ensure financial strength, uphold accreditation standards, drive innovation, and provide the best student experience possible.
President Martin also leads with service beyond campus. His extensive community involvement includes engagement with the Utah Valley Chamber of Commerce and the United Way of Utah County. He has also served on the Executive Board of America’s Freedom Festival at Provo, including a term as board president. Additionally, he remains active in volunteering through his church.
Best Curriculum Development: RMU Occupational Therapy Department
The RMU Occupational Therapy Department was honored for its innovative approach to healthcare education and for creating programs that directly address workforce needs.
Demonstrating agility and foresight in program development, RMU introduced two groundbreaking initiatives in 2024: the Master of Occupational Therapy (MOT) Bridge Program and the UVU-RMU 3+3 partnership. These programs exemplify RMU’s ability to craft creative, flexible pathways for students that allow them to maximize their education and better prepare them for the workforce.
RMU’s hybrid education model, which combines online learning with on-campus intensives, has become a national benchmark for occupational therapy programs, reflecting the University’s role as a leader in student-centered education. As occupational therapy continues to be one of the most in-demand healthcare careers, RMU’s contributions are enhancing both the professional landscape and quality of life throughout Utah and beyond.
Best University Student: Garrett Parry, physician assistant student
Garrett Parry, a physician assistant student in the Master of Medical Science and Doctor of Medical Science programs at RMU, embodies academic excellence, leadership, and service.
Originally from Salem, Utah, Parry switched from a career path in finance to medicine to pursue a more meaningful, people-centered endeavor. With a 4.0 GPA across both his undergraduate and graduate studies and multiple teaching assistant roles under his belt, Parry has distinguished himself as a scholar and mentor. His unique blend of business acumen and medical knowledge, along with his dedication to helping peers succeed, positions him as a standout leader.
Beyond academics, Parry has made significant contributions to the Utah community through service, mentorship, and healthcare. The first-generation college student uses his time to uplift others — whether tutoring high school students with learning difficulties, volunteering over 200 hours at a food pantry, or supporting young people through church service.
