#United States #Phoenix #Scholarships #Physical Therapy #Rizing Tide

Rizing Tide Foundation Offers Significant Support to DPT Students

In a substantial commitment to increase access to physical therapy, the Rizing Tide Foundation has pledged $570,000 in scholarships for 20 students pursuing a Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) degree in 2025. The foundation aims to create a more inclusive workforce within the physical therapy profession, responding to the growing demand for empathetic and culturally competent practitioners.

Founded in 2020 by Dr. Heidi Jannenga, a veteran in the rehabilitation sector and co-founder of WebPT, the Rizing Tide Foundation's vision revolves around bridging the diversity gap within the physical therapy field. With this new initiative, the foundation has now pledged over $2.2 million in scholarships to foster a diverse group of future practitioners.

Dr. Jannenga expressed her enthusiasm for welcoming the new cohort, highlighting the importance of shaping a workforce that mirrors the communities served. "With each passing year, we witness our alumni transitioning into impactful roles as compassionate clinicians, driving significant change in their communities. Our ongoing dedication to diversity within the field empowers these scholars and further strengthens our profession," she stated.

This year's scholars will receive various financial aids: ten recipients are awarded $14,000 each for essential expenses such as tuition, housing, and textbooks, while another ten, recognized as Crest Rizing Stars, will receive $5,000 each for similar purposes. These scholarships can be renewed annually based on continuous academic performance and community engagement.

Beyond financial assistance, the Rizing Tide Foundation offers its scholars invaluable mentorship and professional growth opportunities. They are invited to participate in the annual Rizing Tide conference in Phoenix, where they can network with peers and industry leaders, aligning their purpose with impactful community service initiatives.

Nick Weber, CEO of Team Rehabilitation Physical Therapy, emphasized the program’s significance. Through their involvement in the screening committee and the Rizing Tide's Employer Connect program, he noted, they encounter exceptional talent that embodies strong academic foundations and character.

Meet the 2025 Crest Scholarship Recipients

The list of students receiving scholarships this year includes:

• - Amanual Nigatu - University of Minnesota
• - Elias Rivas - University of Texas at El Paso
• - Felicia James - University of New Mexico
• - Gabriela Garza - University of Texas Medical Branch
• - Javonte Butler - Belmont University
• - Kaira Torres - Temple University
• - Nellie Del Carmen Blanco - Duke University
• - Nyhri Mudie - Mercer University
• - Soleana Demapan Villanueva - Hawai'i Pacific University
• - Zion Segears - Virginia Commonwealth University

Additionally, the following students have been recognized as Crest Rizing Stars:

• - Alexis Colliard - New York University
• - Ariana Smith - The Ohio State University
• - Caroline Jung - University of Washington
• - Chidera Ibewuike - University of Central Florida
• - Christian Johnson - Whitworth University
• - Gabriela Rey - University of Miami
• - Marcella Brown - Texas State University
• - Myles Smith - Langston University
• - Torian Kelly - Lincoln Memorial University
• - Rachel Cheung - University of Illinois, Chicago

Furthermore, Rizing Tide offers the Surge scholarship, aimed at licensed physical therapists enrolled in U.S.-based residency programs. This year, the application process for the Surge scholarship opened on August 1. Interested candidates can find more information and apply by visiting www.rizing-tide.com.

In conclusion, the Rizing Tide Foundation continues to play a crucial role in supporting diversity and inclusion within the physical therapy sector, ensuring that future health professionals are equipped with the tools they need to flourish and serve their communities effectively.