Dan Stark, Class of 2012, earned his degree in Exercise Science from Bethany Lutheran College and went on to complete his Doctorate in Physical Therapy (DPT) from The College of St. Scholastica in 2016. Today, he serves in the field of sports medicine and rehabilitation, using his advanced training to help individuals recover from injury, improve physical performance, and lead healthier, more active lives. He currently leads the ACE program in Woodbury, Minnesota, focusing on injury prevention, sport enhancement, and return-to-sport performance.
Certified as both a physical therapist and a strength and conditioning specialist (CSCS), Dan has worked extensively with athletes and individuals of all ages. His expertise spans sport biomechanics, movement quality, manual therapy, and muscular imbalances—enabling him to address a wide range of orthopedic injuries and performance goals. He is passionate about helping people optimize their movement and function, guiding them toward a better quality of life.
Dan credits Bethany Lutheran College with helping form both his professional path and personal values. The combination of scientific rigor and faith-based learning equipped him with the tools to serve others with purpose and compassion. His years at Bethany also left him with friendships and mentorships that continue to impact him today.
Reflecting on his college experience, Dan offers this advice to current students:
“Work hard, but enjoy your time in college—you will only be there for a few years of your life. Have fun learning, meet new people each day, and get involved with whatever you can. The friendships and bonds you form now will follow you for the rest of your life. Also, never forget that God has a plan for you. Give Him glory in all that you do, realizing that if you follow His will for you, He will guide you to achieve your fullest potential.”
Dan’s journey from Bethany student to health and performance expert is a powerful example of how a Christ-centered education in the sciences can prepare graduates for meaningful service in the world.