Merrell T. Ponder, DPT, CES, CPT, recently obtained his doctor of physical therapy (DOT) degree from Alabama State University.

He is currently a physical therapist at Orthopedic Physical Therapy and Fitness in Columbiana. Merrell graduated from Shelby County High School in 1998 and the University of Montevallo in 2005. His parents are Merrell A. Ponder Jr. and Pat Ponder of Columbiana and Pam Ponder.