APTA Student Assembly - Centennial Scholar Program

Program Purpose

The APTA Centennial Scholars Program is designed to build a cadre of future association leaders at both the component and national levels. Demonstrating APTA’s investment in the sustainability of the association as it begins its next 100 years, the program will support our collective quest for a diverse and prepared leadership pool.

The 12-month program will run throughout 2021 with a goal of engaging 100 scholars, including the goal of at least one scholar sponsored by each of APTA’s components. The curriculum will cover association leadership and management topics and be delivered through three face-to-face meetings and regularly scheduled virtual learning experiences. Additionally, scholars will work directly with their sponsoring component to design and complete a capstone project that addresses an existing need as determined by the sponsor. Scholars will also benefit from the guidance of Centennial Scholar mentors who will work directly with the scholars in small groups to support the completion of their projects. The following document contains additional information (APTA_Centennial_Scholars_Program_for_SA.pdf).

Eligibility and Application Requirements

1. Be a current student member of the APTA at the time of application and throughout the 2021 Centennial year.
2. Attend two mandatory in-person events [all expenses covered by APTA] and regularly scheduled virtual meetings. The in-person events are currently scheduled for:
   1. April 17, 2021 in Alexandria, VA
   2. September 12, 2021 in Washington, D.C.
3. Commit to developing and completing a capstone project in collaboration with the sponsoring chapter/section/academy, which may extend beyond 2021.
4. Submit a completed application by the application deadline.

Required Application Materials

1. Completed application
2. Resume or CV detailing educational, professional, and volunteer service experience.

Desired Application Materials

1. Two letters of recommendation from people familiar with your potential for future professional leadership and your ability successfully complete a capstone project for your component.
2. For students: at least one letter of recommendation should be from your physical therapy program academic and/or clinical faculty