Reynaldo Veloz, a proud graduate of Pahrump Valley High School’s Class of 2007, has built an impressive career in the field of physical therapy, rising to the position of Director of Therapy Operations at Encompass Health Rehabilitation Hospital in Birmingham, Alabama. His journey from a standout student-athlete in high school to a leader in his profession is a testament to hard work, determination, and a deep commitment to personal and professional growth.
Looking back on his time at PVHS, Reynaldo fondly recalls the camaraderie and unity he shared with his teammates before home football games. The moments in the locker room, fully geared up, music playing, and the collective focus on playing for one another remain among his most cherished memories. These experiences on the field, combined with his academic achievements, shaped his character and work ethic, setting the foundation for his future success.
Reynaldo excelled academically, earning the prestigious title of Valedictorian for the Class of 2007. His dedication to his studies earned him numerous accolades, including the highest grade in multiple subjects, with his proudest academic accomplishment being his top performance in Physics. His academic excellence opened the door to multiple scholarships, covering nearly all of his undergraduate education and allowing him to pursue his dreams without the burden of financial constraints.
His athletic career at PVHS was equally distinguished. As a junior, he played a key role in the football team’s journey to the state tournament. During his senior year, he contributed to the basketball team’s success, helping them reach the state semi-finals. Track and field was another area where he excelled, lettering all four years and securing a zone championship in discus in 2007 before going on to place third in the state that same year. Reynaldo also set a school record for the discus in 2007 that would remain until broken by Jeremy Albertson in 2018, with Reynaldo as his coach.
After graduating from PVHS, Reynaldo pursued higher education at the University of Nevada, earning his undergraduate degree in 2011. His passion for science and healthcare led him to continue his studies at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas, where he obtained his Doctorate in Physical Therapy in 2017. His journey into physical therapy was influenced by an insightful conversation with his high school anatomy teacher, Steve Nygaard, who recognized his aptitude for the subject and encouraged him to consider PT as a career path. That guidance proved instrumental, as Reynaldo went on to build a successful career in the field.
His professional journey took him back to his roots, where he briefly taught Geometry and Biology as a long-term sub at PVHS before returning to graduate school. Upon earning his doctorate, he began working at a rehabilitation hospital in Las Vegas, where he dedicated six years to helping patients recover from injuries and illnesses. His expertise and leadership skills led to a promotion to Senior Therapist, and when he relocated to Alabama to be with his wife, he continued his work at Encompass Health. In just a year and a half, he earned another promotion, this time to Director of Therapy Operations, where he now oversees physical therapists, occupational therapists, and speech therapists at his hospital.
Throughout his career, Reynaldo credits his parents and older brothers as the driving forces behind his work ethic and determination. Growing up in a household where hard work and perseverance were emphasized, he never doubted his ability to follow in the footsteps of his siblings, all of whom paved the way for success. Their guidance and example instilled in him a belief that he could accomplish anything he set his mind to.
While Reynaldo considers himself fortunate to have avoided major career challenges, one of the most significant transitions he faced was relocating across the country to Alabama. Leaving behind his family and familiar surroundings was difficult, but thanks to his company’s support, he was able to transfer seamlessly and continue his professional growth. He emphasizes the importance of reputation in the workplace, noting that every action, whether positive or negative, has a lasting impact on one’s career trajectory. His advice to aspiring physical therapists is to prepare for the rigorous demands of graduate school, assuring them that the rewards of a fulfilling and impactful career are well worth the effort.
Despite the distance, Reynaldo maintains strong connections to his PVHS roots. He stays in touch with his high school experience through his cousins, who were also part of his graduating class, and through his family, many of whom still reside in Pahrump. He takes great pride in watching his nieces and nephews participate in sports and dance, continuing the family’s tradition of excellence in athletics and extracurricular activities.
The skills he developed in high school—balancing a demanding academic schedule with extracurricular commitments—have remained essential in his daily life. The discipline and time management skills he honed as a student-athlete carried him through college, graduate school, and now, his professional career. Beyond his work at Encompass Health, he is also deeply involved in community outreach, serving as the head of his hospital’s Stroke Outreach Program. In this role, he collaborates with hospital staff on stroke improvement initiatives and provides education to the community on stroke prevention and recovery, demonstrating his dedication to both professional excellence and community service.
On a personal level, Reynaldo recently entered an exciting new chapter of his life, having married at the start of 2025. His wife, Haley’s Alabama roots prompted his move to Birmingham, and together they are building a life filled with adventure and shared passions. Outside of work, Reynaldo enjoys the outdoors, particularly bass fishing, which has become a favorite pastime since his relocation. He strives to maintain a healthy work-life balance, ensuring that when he spends time with family and friends, he is fully present and engaged, setting boundaries between work responsibilities and personal life.
Looking ahead, Reynaldo has already achieved the highest career position he had envisioned for himself and is now focusing on personal goals, including family and travel. He and his wife are eagerly planning an extended honeymoon in the Bahamas, looking forward to creating unforgettable memories together.
Reynaldo’s journey from PVHS to professional success is a testament to dedication, resilience, and the power of community support. His story serves as an inspiration to current and future students, proving that with hard work, the right guidance, and a passion for learning, one can achieve great heights while remaining grounded in their roots.
