Dr. Carolina M. Valencia is a Clinical Associate Professor and Program Director of the Bachelor of Science in Rehabilitation Sciences in the College of Health Sciences at The University of Texas at El Paso (UTEP). She received her degree in Physical Therapy from Universidad Católica de Valparaíso, Chile, in 2002 and worked clinically before pursuing a Ph.D. in Rehabilitation Science at the University of Florida. Since 2017, her work at UTEP has focused on shaping the Bachelor of Science in Rehabilitation Sciences program through high-impact practices.

Dr. Valencia believes that teaching is an act of trust that transforms lives through authentic engagement, belonging, and empowerment. Her teaching philosophy centers on creating inclusive, experiential learning environments that combine service-learning, global collaboration, and research experiences to prepare students for meaningful careers in rehabilitation and healthcare. Through projects such as The $100 Solution™, students apply classroom knowledge to real community challenges, developing empathy, leadership, and cultural humility.

As Director of the Experimental Pain Research Lab, Dr. Valencia mentors undergraduate and graduate students conducting research on pain mechanisms, psychosocial factors, and rehabilitation outcomes. Her scholarly work and mentorship have led to numerous student presentations at national and international conferences.

She has stated that her role as an educator, instructor, mentor, director, advisor, and Hispanic woman in today’s complex and volatile world is to enhance students’ capacity to learn, facilitate dialogue, provide access to resources, and ignite their passion and curiosity through high-impact experiences that prepare them for life.

Her recognitions include the UTEP EDGE Faculty Champion Award (2025), Teaching Excellence Award for Non-Tenure Track Faculty (2022), The $100 Solution™ Institutional Impact Award (2022), and Mentor of the Year (2019).