08/13/15
by Samanatha Dean
Though starting only its second semester, Fort Hays State University's massage therapy program is reaching major milestones.

The program recently became a member of two national massage therapy associations, the Associated Bodywork and Massage Professionals and the American Massage Therapy Association. FHSU's program also met the requirements to be awarded the National Certification Board for Therapeutic Massage and Bodywork.

"These accreditations allow students to better prepare for their board exams," said Ceena Owens, instructor of health and human performance. "They support the instructors and help us build new programs for our students."

"The associations also provide resources to ensure that both instructors and students use safe and therapeutic massage techniques," she said.

The growing program now has 30 on-campus students participating in hands-on training.

"Massage therapy is a lucrative trade for people who want to help others," said Owens.

Clinical practice begins in October. The public is welcome to sign up for a $25, one-hour massage appointment offered by the massage therapy students.

A two-day introductory, hands-on class in massages will be offered Oct. 17 and Oct. 18. No textbook is required.

For more information, contact Owens at 785-639-7218 or by email at cmowens2@fhsu.edu.