#United States #Phoenix #Physical Therapy #Rizing Tide Foundation #Crest Scholarship

Rizing Tide Foundation Achieves Milestone in Supporting Future PTs

In a significant step toward enhancing diversity in the physical therapy field, the Rizing Tide Foundation has announced the recipients of its 2026 Crest Scholarship, surpassing a remarkable $2.5 million milestone in scholarship funding. This year, a diverse cohort of twenty scholars was selected from more than 500 applicants to receive scholarships aimed at creating a more inclusive workforce in the field of physical therapy. The recipients were chosen from 19 accredited programs across the United States and Puerto Rico, reflecting a broad support network within the professional community.

Founded by Dr. Heidi Jannenga, a veteran in the rehab therapy industry, the Rizing Tide Foundation aims to bridge the diversity gap in physical therapy through scholarships and professional development initiatives. The Crest Scholarship is part of the foundation's commitment to award a total of up to $570,000 to Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) students from underrepresented racial and ethnic backgrounds. "I am proud to welcome the 2026 Crest scholars into the Rizing Tide community and celebrate their incredible potential," said Dr. Jannenga in a recent statement. "This group of academically exceptional future physical therapists, many of whom are first-generation college students, is determined to make a meaningful impact on our profession and beyond."

The chosen scholars for the 2026 Crest Scholarship were honored for their strong academic records, leadership potential, commitment to service, and passion for advancing the field of physical therapy. Beyond financial assistance, the scholarships come with mentorship opportunities and access to the foundation's North Star Summit, an annual conference held in Phoenix, Arizona. This brings together current and future PTs to foster professional growth and collaboration.

Meet the 2026 Crest Scholarship Recipients

The array of scholarship recipients showcases a remarkable blend of talent and ambition:

• - Ashley Ma, MGH Institute of Health Professions
• - Brandon Acuna, Elon University
• - Emna Belhadj Mohamed, California State University, Sacramento
• - Ephraim Bullock, Virginia Commonwealth University
• - Gianna DeTomaso, Pacific University
• - Jada Watson, Alabama State University
• - Jesus Meza Nava, Sacramento State
• - Joshua Persaud, Ithaca College
• - Keshon Thomas, University of Findlay
• - Mario Tovar Velasquez, Texas State University

In addition to the Crest awardees, the foundation also recognizes the Rizing Star scholars, who are similarly committed to advancing their careers in physical therapy:

• - Bilikisu Amunikoro, Northeastern University
• - Elmer Ortega, University of Southern California
• - Jerson Ochoa-Munoz, Methodist University
• - Jorge Galan Ortiz, University of Puerto Rico
• - London Downing, University of Delaware
• - Mahasin Hammond, University of Southern California
• - Rylie Hamilton, Augusta University
• - Sarah Yoo, Marymount University
• - Shania Custodio-Velasco, Hawai'i Pacific University
• - Vanessa Vazquez, University of North Texas

This year’s scholarship program was made possible thanks to generous contributions from physical therapists and industry leaders, dedicated to nurturing the next generation of practitioners. Notable donations came from Dr. Ricardo "Ricky" Locci, a former Crest scholar, who donated $5,000 to sponsor a scholarship, demonstrating the foundation's philosophy of cultivating a supportive community. Locci stated, "Receiving a Crest Scholarship changed the trajectory of my career, and sponsoring a scholarship for the second year in a row is my way of welcoming a new cohort of scholars into the same community that helped shape me."

Additionally, Dr. Larry Benz also contributed significantly, with a $10,000 donation to support a Surge Scholarship to assist licensed physical therapists pursuing advanced residency training.

Looking ahead, applications for the 2027 Crest Scholarship cycle will open on April 1, 2027. The foundation continues its mission to foster inclusivity in this essential field, ensuring that individuals from diverse backgrounds have the opportunity to thrive in physical therapy. Rizing Tide also offers other scholarship options, including the Surge Scholarship, accompanied by an ongoing application cycle.

For more information on scholarship opportunities or to make a contribution to this transformative initiative, visit Rizing Tide's official website.

About Rizing Tide

The Rizing Tide Foundation, established in 2020, aims to address the ongoing diversity gap in the physical therapy profession. With a commitment to champions educational equity and inclusivity, the foundation has pledged a total of $2.8 million to date, highlighting its dedication to creating a future where all voices in the field can be heard and represented. Dr. Jannenga, the founder, proudly champions this mission to ensure aspiring therapists from various backgrounds are empowered and equipped to succeed in their careers.