Dr. Annie Fangman ’11
Iowa City, Iowa

After completing her residency rotations at the University of Washington Medical Center in Seattle, Dr. Annie Fangman embarked on a career as a physical therapist specializing in neurologic recovery. Fangman works with patients who have experienced traumatic brain injuries, strokes, and spinal cord injuries, among other neurological conditions. Many of her patients face major changes to their daily lives as a result of their diagnoses. Her research seeks to advance treatments in this area, and she advocates for her patients through her involvement with the American Physical Therapy Association and Academy of Neurologic Physical Therapy.

Fangman entered the medical field after graduating from Wartburg with a degree in biology and from the University of Utah with her doctorate in physical therapy. While in Salt Lake City, she routinely volunteered at the student-run free clinic, providing medical care to those without the ability to pay. She was also class president of the Department of Physical Therapy, providing leadership to those learning around her.

“Annie is a fun-loving, compassionate, and motivated individual known among her friends and family as an enduring optimist with a warm heart and an uncanny ability to turn mundane into memorable,” said Will Fangman, one of her nominators.

“Annie sees each patient as an individual looking for hope and motivation on a quest for normalcy. Annie serves not only as their physical therapist, she is also their counselor, coach, and friend.” She hopes to mentor fellow colleagues as she is again a resident of Iowa and working at the University of Iowa Hospitals & Clinics as an inpatient supervisor.

A former member of the women’s soccer team, Fangman continues to stay active running trails, camping, and hiking with her dogs, husband, and son.

For her efforts to care for those facing life-altering diagnoses, the Wartburg College Alumni Board is pleased to present a 2024 Young Alumni Award to Dr. Annie Fangman.