The American Physical Therapy Association is accepting nominations from physical therapists and physical therapist assistants interested in contributing to achieving the aims of A Vision for Excellence in Physical Therapy Education through the Collaborative for Physical Therapy Education, an APTA member engagement group. The purpose of the Collaborative is to build community by fostering awareness, communication, coordination, cooperation, and collaboration on the six pillars and 22 guiding principles identified as priorities for physical therapy education in the coming years. Appointments are for one-year terms beginning Jan. 1, 2026. Representative slots will remain open until they are filled.
The Pillars of the Vision (see operational definitions and guiding principles in the link above) are:
- Accessibility of Education
- Collaboration and Networks
- Competency-Based Education
- Welcoming and Belonging
- Education Research and Data Management
- Infrastructure, Capacity, and Faculty Development
Currently, 25 participating organizations have selectively joined the collaborative based on interest in addressing at least one pillar and guiding principle of the vision. The Collaborative uses an APTA Community to connect and communicate and has developed six subcommunities, one for each pillar of the Vision, so that focused discussion on these priorities can occur. Each participating organization has been invited to identify up to 2 representatives per pillar to engage in discussion on that area of focus. Representatives represent the participating organization that recommended them and are expected to be an information conduit between the subcommunity and the participating organization.
Representatives to the subcommunities are encouraged to engage in thoughtful discussions, share valuable resources and information, and stay updated on the latest news and events that contribute to our shared effort to advance the aims of this pillar of the vision. This is also an excellent opportunity to collaborate on strategies and solutions among the participating organizations of the Collaborative.
Eligibility Requirements:
- Be an APTA physical therapist or physical therapist assistant member (including postprofessional and life categories).
- Demonstrate interest and examples of work addressing the Pillar subcommunity for which an application is being submitted.
- Demonstrate evidence of effective group participation.
- Willing to comply with APTA's Volunteer Commitment.
Volunteers Needed:
- Up to two (2) volunteers are needed for each of the six Pillars of the Vision (up to 12 open positions in total).
Experience Required:
- One or more years of experience engaging in the Pillar topic area.