Northeast D.C. Student Honored with Scholarship at National Hockey Chiropractic Conference

Northeast College of Health Sciences student Matthew Ward (D.C. ’26), an eighth-trimester Doctor of Chiropractic degree candidate at the College, was recently awarded a $500 scholarship at the 2025 Pro Hockey Chiropractic Society (PHCS) Conference held July 12-13 in Dallas, Texas

The conference brought together leading chiropractic professionals from across the National Hockey League (NHL) and American Hockey League (AHL), offering Ward the unique opportunity to network with team chiropractors and learn directly from experts in the field. Among those in attendance was Richard Finewood (D.C. ’96), Northeast (formerly NYCC) alumnus and current chiropractor for the New York Rangers, who joined Ward during the scholarship presentation.

Learning From the Pros: Northeast Student Networks with NHL Chiropractors

Conference highlights included a private tour of the Dallas Stars’ training and locker room facilities, a meet-and-greet mixer on July 11, and an expert panel Q&A with official team chiropractors. Attendees also heard from an all-star roster of speakers who shared real-world experience from the highest levels of professional hockey, along with interactive networking sessions to connect students and professionals in the field.

Leader on Northeast Campus and in Future Profession

Ward is actively involved in student organizations at Northeast College. He serves as president of the Northeast Sports Med and Rehab Club, vice president of the Student American Chiropractic Association (SACA) Sports Council and as a student ambassador for NCMIC.

“It was an amazing experience speaking with team chiropractors and getting a behind-the-scenes look at professional hockey healthcare,” said Ward. “Opportunities like this are invaluable as I prepare to enter the profession.”