By: Megan Sapita, SPT, Northern Illinois University

On Thursday, April 23rd, Northern Illinois University’s DPT Program "Dough & Dialogue: National Advocacy Dinner", bringing together PTs and SPTs for an engaging evening focused on the critical role advocacy plays in shaping policy, reimbursement, and patient access to care.

The discussion emphasized that many of the challenges seen in clinical practice stem from legislative and policy decisions, reinforcing the need for physical therapists to stay actively involved and make their voices heard. Attendees gained practical insight into how advocacy can occur at both the national and local levels, and how even small actions can have a meaningful impact on the profession.

We are especially grateful to our speakers for sharing their time and expertise. Dr. Kathryn Brito, PT, DPT, CCS, presented “Beyond the Bedside,” illustrating how decisions made in policy spaces directly influence patient outcomes through real-world examples of barriers to care, such as delays in services and reimbursement limitations. She also highlighted her advocacy work within APTA and emphasized the importance of clinicians using their voices to improve access and outcomes.

Kenneth Olson, PT, DHSc, OCS, FAAOMPT, presented on “Advocacy and Professional Development,” drawing from his extensive national and international advocacy experience to highlight the long-term impact of engagement in shaping the profession. He also addressed burnout within physical therapy, encouraging attendees to recognize systemic challenges while prioritizing professional growth, sustainability, and continued involvement in advocacy efforts.

The evening also encouraged attendees to become more involved by joining APTA, staying informed on current legislative issues, and engaging in advocacy efforts at both the state and national levels. Students were additionally encouraged to pursue leadership opportunities within IPTA and consider running for positions upon graduation to help shape the future of the profession.

Northern Illinois University extends sincere thanks to the Illinois Physical Therapy Association (IPTA) for sponsoring this event and for their continued support in empowering both current clinicians and future physical therapists to advocate for their patients and the profession.

By: Kimberly Tarver, PT, MPH, IPTA Northern District Secretary

On Tuesday, April 14, Elgin Community College’s PTA Program Class of 2026, in cooperation with the IPTA Northern District, hosted a multi-school National Advocacy Dinner generously sponsored by the IPTA.

PTA students from Elgin Community College, as well as PTA students from McHenry Community College, and Northern District members enjoyed an inspirational evening of discussion and learning. 

During dinner, participants discussed the importance of advocacy in their lives as well as topics that were important to them in the world of physical therapy.  They then downloaded the APTA Action app and reviewed how they can be involved in Advocacy at the national level through this medium. 

Sara Owens, PTA, IPTA Chapter Treasurer, Finance Committee Chair, and IDFPR Physical Therapy Licensing and Disciplinary Board member, was the keynote speaker of the evening.   Sara spoke about federal and state advocacy priorities and examples of successful advocacy efforts.

The event was well received and considered an overwhelming success by both participants and planners.  Thank you to the participants (some of who drove over 1.5 hours to the event,) and event planners!

Special thanks to IPTA for their advice and sponsorship of the event

By: Will Schwarting, SPT (Northwestern University), Class of 2027

On Wednesday, March 25, Northwestern University hosted its 2026 National Advocacy Lunch for DPT students in Room 715. The event brought together approximately 100 students for an afternoon focused on advocacy in physical therapy and how students can begin getting involved now as future clinicians.

The program began with a brief student-led introduction emphasizing that advocacy is essential to the future of the profession. Students were encouraged to view advocacy not as something distant or reserved for others, but as an important part of professional responsibility and growth. One of the central themes introduced was that if we are not at the table, we are on the menu, reinforcing the idea that physical therapists must help shape the decisions that affect their profession and their patients.

Laura Keivel from APTA spoke about advocate engagement and gave students tangible ways to get involved in advocacy right now. She helped make advocacy feel practical and approachable by showing that students can begin taking meaningful first steps even before graduation.

Justin Elliott from APTA shared updates on several important legislative issues at both the state and national levels. Students were especially interested in discussion surrounding Medicare payment reform, federal student loan access, and the Optimizing Postpartum Outcomes Act, which helped connect advocacy efforts to real issues that may directly affect their futures as clinicians.

Dr. Peter McMenamin from Northwestern brought a broader professional and leadership perspective to the event. He challenged students to think about whether physical therapy is on the path to greatness and emphasized that progress in the profession does not happen by chance. One message that stood out from his remarks was that “things do not happen, things are made to happen,” which served as a powerful reminder that advocacy requires action, engagement, and a willingness to use one’s voice.

Overall, the event gave students a meaningful opportunity to learn from leaders in advocacy, policy, and physical therapy education. A major takeaway from the lunch was that advocacy is not just about legislation. It is about protecting the profession, improving patient access, and ensuring that physical therapists help shape the future of healthcare.

Student SIG Trivia Night: Knowledge, Networking, and Fun

Student engagement, collaboration, and clinical knowledge on full display during our Student SIG Trivia Night which took place on January 17th at Asna Yoga & Wellness in Lincolnwood, IL.

Students, from five Illinois PT & PTA programs, competed in Physical Therapy Jeopardy, NPTE-style questions, and a stereognosis “guess the bone” challenge — all while building community across programs.

Shoutout to Ali Ahmad, DPT, CPT, who organized this event, and the beautiful hosting location of Asana Yoga & Wellness for allowing us to use their space!

The IPTA has allocated funds to assist students who experience a sudden financial hardship that jeopardizes their ability to attend or participate in their class or clinical rotation.

These funds, managed by our foundation (IPTF), are intended to be used to overcome an unanticipated challenge such as medical co-pays and prescriptions due to an illness, a car repair, or essential needs such as food and toiletries that are in jeopardy due to needing a textbook or a background check for a clinical rotation.

The intent of these funds is to identify students who may be at risk and offer initial short term financial assistance, as well as connect them with a member of their school faculty who can offer ongoing guidance and support. Since its inception in 2022, the IPTA has provided over $5,500 in financial assistance to students in need.

It is important to understand that this is not a scholarship and is intended to cover emergency expenses that cause a temporary hardship for a student. For more information including how to apply, click below.

By: Zepei (Kelly) Xie, SPT (Northwestern University), Class of 2026

On Wednesday, April 2nd, Northwestern University hosted the first National Advocacy lunch of 2025!

The advocacy event for physical therapy students provided an in-depth look at the importance of engaging with lawmakers to shape the future of the profession. Throughout the event, speakers emphasized that advocacy is not just about policy—it’s about protecting the profession, ensuring fair reimbursement, and expanding patient access to care. Since many legislators are unfamiliar with the role of physical therapy, it is essential for physical therapists (PTs) and physical therapist assistants (PTAs) to educate them on how the profession improves patient outcomes and reduces healthcare costs. Students learned that advocacy can take many forms, including meeting with lawmakers in person, inviting them to visit clinics or schools, attending town hall events, and staying informed on legislative issues through newsletters and social media.

Dr. Daniel Dale, Clinical Associate Professor and Assistant Director of Clinical Education at Mercer University, spoke about "Advocacy Over Anxiety," encouraging students to overcome hesitation and confidently advocate for themselves, their patients, and the profession. He emphasized that advocacy is not just about speaking up in Washington, D.C., but also about everyday actions that can help advance physical therapy in local communities and clinical settings.

Laura Keivel, APTA’s Grassroots and Political Affairs Specialist, highlighted the importance of making voices heard, stating, "If you don’t have a seat at the table, you’re on the menu." She stressed that physical therapists are at the center of patient care, working directly with patients daily, which gives them a unique and valuable perspective that must be shared with policymakers. Without active engagement from PTs and PTAs, key decisions about the profession could be made without their input.

Dr. Peter McMenamin, a leader in physical therapy education and practice, posed the question, "Is physical therapy on the path to greatness?" He challenged students to consider that the growth and success of the profession do not happen by chance but are driven by those who use their voices and experiences to advocate for change. He shared insights from his extensive career in hospital and private practice, as well as his leadership in professional associations, illustrating how consistent advocacy efforts have shaped the profession’s development.

The event also covered the role of APTA in legislative advocacy, including its Public Policy Priorities, which guide advocacy efforts at the federal level. Students learned about the "Economic Value of Physical Therapy" report, which highlights the cost-effectiveness of physical therapy and its potential to improve health outcomes. The discussion also touched on the APTA Advocacy Network, which provides members with action alerts and legislative updates, and the importance of Key Contacts, who serve as direct links between lawmakers and APTA. Additionally, students were introduced to PTPAC, the Physical Therapy Political Action Committee, which supports legislators who advocate for policies that benefit the profession.

The event concluded with a call to action, encouraging students to take the first step in advocacy by joining the APTA Advocacy Network, staying informed on policy issues, and actively engaging with legislators. The key takeaway was that greatness in physical therapy comes from collective advocacy efforts and that every PT and PTA has the power to shape the future of the profession.

PT Month: Bradley DPT Students Give Back!

By: Caroline Ahern, SPT, Bradley University

In honor of Physical Therapy Day of Service and National Physical Therapy Month, Bradley University's DPT program came together to make a meaningful impact in our community.

We proudly hosted a personal hygiene drive, collecting over 1,000 essential products for the Dream Center of Peoria to support those in need. Additionally, we partnered with Crew 309, an inspiring group of women affected by breast cancer, to participate in a special fitness class, promoting health and wellness.

Through these initiatives, we're celebrating the power of community and the importance of physical therapy in building healthier lives.

What we have also heard --

Northwestern University hosted a fundraising drive, which faculty and students collected clothes, household items, and canned goods to donate to New Life Center, a local organization dedicated to giving back to Chicagoland families in need.

Southwestern Illinois College (SWIC)'s PTA Club raised monetary donations to be donated next week to two foodbanks in the area.

Rosalind Franklin University hosted a falls risk assessment for the community, and the first and second year classes volunteered their time at Feed My Starving Children.

On Sunday, September 22nd physical therapy students, professionals, and friends came together for the 6th Annual Governors State University Physical Therapy Student Association Networking Gala at the prestigious Columbia Yacht Club. 

For those who couldn't make it, here's a little recap of what you missed!

The morning rain showers ended just in time for the start of the evening’s Networking Gala. As the clouds creeped away, the light from the evening moon made for a picturesque and breathtaking view of the Chicago skyline out on Lake Michigan.

Attendees were quick to shake hands with new acquaintances and catch up with familiar faces – as they got to know one another with BINGLE, a fun networking take on the game, bingo. Could you recognize an IPTA Board Member in the crowd? What about seeking out attendees who own a pet? Have a tattoo? Or have attended more than 3 Gala events?

Along the perimeter of the sky lounge were over two dozen beautifully displayed silent auction baskets up for bidding. From gift cards to professional photography sessions, Blackhawk tickets to fresh baked goods, there was something everyone could enjoy.

Attendees also had the opportunity to meet with representatives from our event sponsor, PT Solutions Physical Therapy.

“Sometimes, it’s not about the grades you make – but the hands you shake” says Emilio Zayas, PT as he took to the mic to thank everyone who came.  

Back in 2019, while still in DPT school, Emilio and fellow GSU PTSA students came up with an idea to organize a networking event, inviting students from across Illinois to attend with the proceeds benefiting the Foundation (IPTF).

Now in its sixth year, this Gala to benefit the IPTF has lived up to its reputation of opening doors for students to network outside the classroom.

The highlight of the evening though was recognizing the recipients of IPTF’s PT Solutions “Future Leaders” Scholarships, Student to Student Scholarships, and the Judith Harris & Dr. Monica Vohmann Scholarship.

An impressive $28,000 was awarded in student scholarships. This annual Networking Gala continues to grow and support exemplary students in the pursuit of their degree.

Let’s congratulate the 2024 Judith Harris & Dr. Monica Vohmann scholarship Recipient.

Julie Rosen, PT and her husband David presented the scholarship which they have established and funded since 2019. In memory of Julie’s mother, Judith Harris, and in honor of Judith’s physician, Dr. Monica Vohmann, this scholarship is awarded to a first year DPT student who has demonstrated their desire to help others while overcoming financial or other obstacles to furthering their education.  

Congratulations to Alexsander Kelsey, first year Midwestern DPT student who was named the 2024 Judith Harris & Dr. Monica Vohmann scholarship recipient.

Let’s celebrate the 2024 Student to Student Scholarship Recipients:

This scholarship recognizes applicants who has demonstrated their desire to care for patients through involvement in the professional association, school clubs and activities, and volunteerism. These scholarships are funded through events such as the GSU Networking Gala, #GivingTuesday Student Challenge, IPTF “Day of Giving” donations, and IPTF 5K.  

Anastasia Barron, SPT (Governors State University)

Also recognized, but was not present to accept: Kalee Maziarka, SPT (North Central College) Long Chan, SPTA (William Rainey Harper  College)

Let’s applaud this year’s PT Solutions “Future Leaders” Recipients.

Through their partnership with the IPTF, PT Solutions awarded students with a $3,000 PT Solutions “Future Leaders” Scholarship, which recognizes students who express an early interest in clinical leadership or advocating for the profession. This year’s committee had 15 excellent applications to choose from, and while all were deserving, 8 students rose to the top.

Scott Etheridge, SPT (North Central College)

Zachary Griffith, SPT (Northwestern University)

Alexandra Szul, SPT (University of Illinois – Chicago)

Allison Roberts, SPT (Midwestern University)

Also recognized, but was not present to accept: Alexis Fletcher, SPT (Rosalind Franklin University) Eleni Papastratakos, SPT (Northwestern University) Teadora Markovski, SPT (North Central College) Princess Tiffany Muoghalu, SPT (North Central College)

From either receiving a giant scholarship check, taking home a silent auction basket, winning a raffle prize, or making a new connection – it appeared everyone went home a winner!

This event proved also to be a success in raising close to $8,000 for the IPTF which will help support future scholarship recipients.

On behalf of the Illinois Physical Therapy Foundation (IPTF) and our sponsors, we would like to say thank you to the Governors State University Physical Therapy Association (GSU PTSA) for organizing such a great event.

It’s important to remember how valuable these in person networking events are to building professional relationships. Be on the lookout for the announcement of the 2025 event.

You won’t want to miss it!

By: Eleni Papastratakos, SPT (Northwestern University), Class of 2025

On June 11th, Northwestern University hosted their annual Advocacy Lunch for first and second year doctorate of physical therapy (DPT) students.

During this lunch, two second year DPT students at Northwestern University (Eleni Papastratakos and Lizzie Bensussen) explained their experience with advocacy as well as the importance of advocacy for physical therapy students, physical therapy assistant students, as well as practicing clinicians. They emphasized how advocacy, the IPTA, and APTA have helped to positively impact their academic careers.

Additionally at the lunch, there were four guest speakers (Katie Brito, PT, DPT, CCS; Laura Keivel (APTA government affairs); Peter McMenamin, Pt, DPT, MS; and Peter McManus, PT, DPT). who also spoke on how advocacy has impacted them to shape who they are within their professional careers.

The event was a huge success thanks to support from both the IPTA and Northwestern University’s Physical Therapy department; the planning committee was awarded sponsorship from the IPTA.

Thanks to the IPTA, Northwestern PTHMS, and our phenomenal guest speakers for such an impactful event!

A Message From Your Student SIG President

Fellow Student Members,

As my term as the President of the Illinois Physical Therapy Association's Student Special Interest Group (SSIG) comes to a close, I wanted to take a moment to extend my heartfelt gratitude to each and every one of you. Over the past year, it has been an incredible honor and privilege to serve as your President of the Student SIG.

Your support, dedication, and enthusiasm have been the driving force behind our success.

Whether it was through attending events, participating in discussions, or contributing your unique perspectives, each of you played a crucial role in shaping the direction of our SIG. Your passion for the profession is truly inspiring, and I am grateful for the opportunity to have served alongside such an exceptional group of individuals. Thank you to all the student members in the IPTA for being involved and discerning moral agents!

I am immensely thankful for the guidance, collaboration, and commitment to excellence of the entire Student SIG Executive Committee. Your leadership has been instrumental in guiding our initiatives, navigating challenges, and ensuring the continued growth and success of our group. It has been a privilege to work alongside such talented and dedicated individuals, and I am proud of all that we have accomplished together.

As I reflect on the past year, I am filled with gratitude for the invaluable experiences, friendships, and memories that we have shared. While my term may be ending, I am confident that the passion and dedication of our members and Executive Board will continue to propel the Student SIG forward. (Get to know your incoming Student SIG leaders, who will begin their term on June 1st).

Thank you once again for entrusting me with the privilege of serving as your student President. It has been an honor that I will always cherish, and I look forward to seeing the continued success and growth of our Association in the years to come.

Finally, I wish for the best of luck to the graduating students as they embark on their professional career.

Peter McManus, DPT
2023-2024 Student SIG President
Northwestern University Class of 2024

By: Andrew Nowak, SPTA (Fox College), Class of 2025

On Wednesday, April 10th from 5:30 – 7:30 PM, Fox College had the privilege of hosting 3 guest speakers, 2 PTA program directors, and 26 first year student PTAs for our first IPTA National Advocacy Dinner of 2024!

This event was a massive success, in part due to participation from several Fox College students and faculty who were extremely motivated in organizing this learning opportunity. Special recognition is given to the speakers who took the time to deliver such powerful and informative presentations, and to our visiting student and program director from Prairie State College who were able to travel to our event and connect with the Fox College student PTAs. A very special thank you to these guests for allowing us to host them and for making this such an impactful learning opportunity.

Jason Magafas, PTA, former IPTA PTA Director and former student SIG PTA Director, began the event with a presentation of how advocacy has allowed him to shape his career and the importance of being informed on and involved in current advocacy legislation topics. Jason touched on topics such as the various governmental procedures for passing PTA legislation, the importance of becoming involved in advocacy discussions by sharing our personal stories as PTAs, and how our roles in impacting advocacy legislation starts now as student PTAs. Jason provided multiple personal examples of how his involvement in advocacy began with his time as a Fox College student, helping to drive home the message of how we can find ways to get involved and fight for the changes we want to see in our field.

Sara Owens, PTA, PTA Director on IPTA Board of Directors, discussed many of the recent and current advocacy topics that the IPTA and APTA have been involved in. Along with exposing us to some of the current events in PTA advocacy, Sara touched on topics such as how we can define our own goals in our careers based on our personal strengths and interests, the value of utilizing continuing education through our careers to refine our skills in delivering high quality treatment, and the importance of fighting to protect our title and for changes that will give PTAs a wider scope of practice to better treat our patients. The countless examples provided on progress the IPTA’s advocacy efforts have made in bringing about change helped to open our eyes to the ongoing nature of fighting to gain and protect our rights as PTAs.

Jeremy Graddick, PTA, former IPTA new professional chair, wrapped up the event by bringing the discussion back to the value of using advocacy to promote our development throughout our careers. Jeremy touched on how arguably the most important aspect of advocacy is to advocate for ourselves by having the drive to enhance our competencies with continuous education and involving ourselves in as many learning experiences as we can. The overarching message Jeremy delivered is to deny settling for being average in our profession through continuous progression and taking opportunities to exceed what is expected of us.

A special thanks to everyone involved in making this incredible event come to fruition. Because of this advocacy dinner, $135 in total was raised for IPT PAC (Illinois Physical Therapy Political Action Committee) through donations of those attending. This event was an excellent introduction to the benefits of advocacy and the importance of being involved in the development of our own careers and the development of the PTA field.

On Sunday, September 17th a record number of 107 physical therapy students, professionals, and friends came together for the 5th Annual Governors State University Physical Therapy Student Association Networking Gala at the prestigious Columbia Yacht Club. 

For those who couldn't make it, here's a little recap of what you missed!

It turned out to be a beautiful evening overlooking the breathtaking Chicago skyline out on Lake Michigan. As hors d’oeuvres and drinks were served, guests mingled with familiar faces and new acquaintances - getting to know one another with BINGLE, a fun networking take on the game bingo.

Along the perimeter of the sky lounge were over 30 beautifully displayed silent auction baskets which were up for the bidding. These donated baskets included gift cards, PT packages, wine tastings to professional portrait packages.

Attendees also had the opportunity to meet with representatives from our sponsor companies – PT Solutions Physical Therapy and Revolution Physical Therapy and Weight Loss.

The highlight of the evening though was recognizing the recipients of IPTF’s PT Solutions “Future Leaders” Scholarships, Student to Student Scholarship, and the Judith Harris & Dr. Monica Vohmann Scholarship.

An impressive $27,000 was awarded in student scholarships. Now in its’ fifth year this annual GSU Networking Gala continues to grow and support exemplary students in the pursuit of their degrees.

Let’s congratulate the 2023 Judith Harris & Dr. Monica Vohmann scholarship Recipient.

Julie Rosen, PT and her husband David presented the scholarship which they have established and funded since 2019. In memory of Julie’s mother, Judith Harris, and in honor of Judith’s physician, Dr. Monica Vohmann, this scholarship is awarded to a first year DPT student who has demonstrated their desire to help others while overcoming financial or other obstacles to furthering their education.  

Congratulations to Evan Kepner, first year Bradley DPT student who was named the 2023 Judith Harris & Dr. Monica Vohmann scholarship recipient.

Let’s celebrate the 2023 Student to Student Scholarship Recipients:

This scholarship recognizes applicants who has demonstrated their desire to care for patients through involvement in the professional association, school clubs and activities, and volunteerism. These scholarships are funded through events such as the 2022 GSU Networking Gala, #GivingTuesday Student Challenge, and a generous sponsorship from Revolution Physical Therapy & Weight Loss.

Alexandria Goss, SPTA (Southwestern Illinois College)

Sara Matsumoto, SPT (Northwestern University)

(not pictured) Jackson Smart, SPT (Bradley University).

Let’s applaud this year’s PT Solutions “Future Leaders” Recipients.

Through their partnership with the IPTF, PT Solutions awarded students with a $3,000 PT Solutions “Future Leaders” Scholarship, which recognizes students who express an early interest in clinical leadership or advocating for the profession. This year’s committee had 40 excellent applications to choose from, and while all were deserving, 8 students rose to the top.

Leah Kerin, SPTA (Black Hawk College)

Nathan Rosendale, SPT (Bradley University)

Alejandra Hernandez, SPT (Northern Illinois University)

Adrian Navar, SPT (Governors State University)

Grace Garvey, SPT (Midwestern University)

Julia Giovanni, SPT (Northwestern University)

Sophia Manokas, SPT (University of Illinois – Chicago)

Rutva Delwadia, SPT (Rosalind Franklin University)

From either receiving a giant scholarship check, taking home a silent auction basket, winning a raffle prize, or making a new connection – it appeared everyone went home a winner!

On behalf of the Illinois Physical Therapy Foundation (IPTF) and our sponsors, we would like to say thank you to the Governors State University Physical Therapy Association (GSU PTSA) for organizing such a great event.

It’s important to remember how valuable these in person networking events are to building professional relationships.

Mark your calendars now for Sunday, September 22, 2024 for the 6th Annual GSU Networking Gala.

You won’t want to miss it!

By: Julia Giovanni, SPT (Northwestern University), IPTA Student SIG Vice President (2022-2023)

On Wednesday, March 29th from 12-1pm, first and second year DPT students gathered at Northwestern University for an impactful event, the first APTA National Advocacy Lunch of the year!

The event was a huge success thanks to support from both the IPTA and Northwestern University’s Physical Therapy department; the planning committee was awarded a $500 sponsorship from the IPTA as well as an additional $250 from the department. These sponsorships allowed the planning committee to cater lunch for all of the attendees - a bit over 100 students! Thanks to Zoom, Northwestern was able to invite PT and PTA programs from across Illinois to participate virtually, and also hosted four guest speakers virtually.

Through both an introductory presentation and through testimonies from the guest speakers, students learned about the importance of advocacy as well as the impact that their voice can have in advancing the profession. Laura Keivel from the APTA Government Affairs office shared several opportunities for student involvement, as well as offered insight on what a “day in the life” looks like at APTA Government Affairs. Meghan Hennessy, DPT shared her experience as a new-grad who is passionate about advocacy, and encouraged Northwestern students to partake in APTA’s Advocacy Day on Capitol Hill. APTA Student BOD President, Julia Black, shared her journey to leadership within the APTA, as well as current initiatives that the board of directors is currently working on. Finally, Babette Sanders PT, DPT, MS, FAPTA shared stories from her life-long career in advocacy and inspired students to take the direction of the PT profession into their own hands!

In addition to learning from these guests, students actively participated by downloading the APTA Advocacy App, which offers students and easy way to voice concerns to legislators and continue to learn about new and upcoming opportunities for advocacy.

Thanks to the IPTA, Northwestern PTHMS, and our phenomenal guest speakers for such an impactful event!

September 18th was a beautiful day on Lake Michigan as a record 86 physical therapy students and professionals gathered together at the 4th Annual Governors State University Physical Therapy Student Association Networking Gala at the Columbia Yacht Club.  Along with networking, enjoying great food, drinks, and a silent auction, an impressive $29,000 in scholarships were awarded.

Funds from past events along with 2 new sponsors, Revolution Physical Therapy and Weight Loss and Sports & Ortho Physical Therapy, allowed us to award 5 “Student to Student’ Scholarships of $1,000 each! The IPTF is sponsoring 2 scholarships from funds raised from the GSU Networking event and the 2021 Midwestern #Giving Tuesday Student Challenge, Revolution is sponsoring 1 scholarship, and Sports & Ortho is sponsoring 2 scholarships. These scholarships are based on the student’s involvement and volunteering in their school, community, and the IPTA/IPTF. We had 12 excellent applicants this year.

Let’s celebrate the 2022 Student to Student Scholarship Recipients:

Ethan Rocha, SPT (University of IL - Chicago) 2022 "Student to Student" Scholarship Recipient	Quintin Wynne, SPT (Northern IL University) 2022 "Student to Student" Scholarship Recipient	Kiya Raines, SPT (Governors State University) 2022 "Student to Student" Scholarship Recipient
Courtney Anderson, SPT (Midwestern University) 2022 "Student to Student" Scholarship Recipient	TaShea' Moore, SPT (Governors State University) 2022 "Student to Student" Scholarship Recipient

PT Solutions partnered with the IPTF to award eight $3,000 PT Solutions “Future Leaders” Scholarships.  We had an impressive 19 applications for this inaugural year. This scholarship is intended to recognize and reward students who express an early interest in leadership, whether that be through clinical leadership or advocating for the profession.

Let’s applaud this year’s PT Solutions “Future Leaders” recipients:

• Lauren Getz, SPT (Bradley University)
• Ashley Martin-Metcalf, SPT (Rosalind Franklin University)
• Natalia Martinez, SPTA (Elgin Community College)
• Brittany Murphy, SPT (Midwestern University)
• Nicole Gilbert, SPT (Northwestern University)
• Ethan Rocha, SPT (University of Illinois - Chicago)
• Quintin Wynne, SPT (Northern Illinois University)
• TaShea' Moore, SPT (Governors State University)

Kudos to the Governors State University Physical Therapy Student Association (GSU PTSA) for organizing such a great event. Be on the lookout for the announcement of the date for next year's event. 

This is such a great evening, you won't want to miss the 2023 event!

By: Daniel Kusper, SPT (Governors State University), Class of 2023.

The Governors State University Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) program hosted their National Advocacy Dinner on the evening of April 14th. 

The Governors State University DPT program hosted attendees from the 1st and 2nd years of their own program, as well as guests from the Fox College PTA program and the Kankakee Community College PTA program.

The event was sponsored by the Illinois Physical Therapy Association (IPTA) with a $500 grant to help cover food expenses and increase accessibility to student attendees.  he dinner consisted of opportunities to network between attendees from different programs in addition the scheduled presentations. 

Matthew Nicholas, Deputy Director of the IPTA, began with a presentation via zoom.  Matthew spoke on the current legislation facing the physical therapy profession, and the process of passing legislation.  He introduced ideas on how to become involved in advocacy for the profession across various points of the legislation process.  He also provided resources to increase familiarity with advocacy, as well as to provide guidance on how to become more involved.

Jim Milder PT, Chair of the Illinois Physical Therapy Political Action Committee (IPT-PAC), began his presentation with the general history of the physical therapy profession’s professional organization, as well as the importance of membership and participation at both the federal, and state levels.  Jim spoke on various ways someone can become involved in advocating for the profession at different levels, and the impact of doing so.  To further drive home the impact of advocacy, Jim provided examples of how the IPTA and APTA works for all of those who belong to the physical therapy profession by discussing both current and recent legislation, their effects, and potential consequences if they had or had not been enacted into law.

Dr. Heidi Moyer, PT, DPT, GCS, CEEAA, and Chair of the IPTA Geriatric Special Interest Group (GeriSIG), discussed their journey in leadership, and the inspirations they experienced that led them to accept positions of leadership within the profession, with emphasis on their leadership in advocacy.  They elaborated on special interest groups (SIGs), their function, and how to become involved with them.  They shared their experiences with the conception of GeriSIG, and how it has grown and the work they do that benefits those that follow them.  They encouraged attendees to simply “go for it."  They encouraged attendees to reach for that goal or idea they had, or to seek out positions of leadership, and to look to those around them for support.  They emphasized the seemingly small actions we take today will cultivate into something that benefits the patients we serve, us as clinicians, and the health of our communities.

Dr. Maryleen Jones, PT, DPT, DHS, NCS, spoke on her experiences and journey into leadership in advocating for the profession, and highlighting the work of Dr. Dawn Brown, DPT, OCS, professor at Northern Illinois University, Chair of the Diversity and Inclusive Committee and member of the East Central District of the IPTA.  Dr. Jones, Chair of the Careers in Physical Therapy Committee announced a new initiative for students to participate in by becoming a Careers in Physical Therapy Ambassador, with the hope of increasing the awareness of the physical therapy profession to student, with a purposeful intent of reaching minority demographics with the hope of increasing diversity in the profession. The program allows for advocacy in a slightly different lens than those shared in the other talks, but furthers the purpose of advocating and working for the future of the profession we share.

The Governors State DPT program would like to thank all the attendees, as well as the guest speakers and the IPTA for all of their assistance in making this event a reality.

By: Dani Harkavy, SPT (Northwestern University), Illinois Core Ambassador to APTA SABoD

On Tuesday, March 22nd from 12-1pm, first and second year DPT students gathered at Northwestern University for the first APTA National Advocacy Lunch of the year!

The student planning committee was awarded a $500 sponsorship from the IPTA, as well as funding from Northwestern University’s DPT program to sponsor the meal. Thanks to Zoom, other PT and PTA programs in Illinois were invited to participate virtually. Students learned about the importance of advocacy within the PT profession and ways they can get involved.

The students were exposed to many advocacy opportunities by our guests, which included Laura Keival from the APTA Government Affairs office, Karen Goodlow, PT, Illinois Chief Delegate, and Matthew Nicholas, IPTA Deputy Director, who joined live via Zoom. Three Northwestern University third year students, Will Lindstrom, Anna Klipstein and Anna Solfest, graciously submitted a pre-recorded video highlighting their experiences as our current IPTA SSIG leaders. Northwestern faculty Jennifer Ryan, PT and Babbette Sanders, PT also spoke about the importance of preparing a “30-second elevator pitch” in the event that students encounter a legislator, as well as current topics being heard in Congress. Students took the opportunity to actively participate by downloading the APTA Advocacy app, which can be used to voice concerns to legislators and learn of opportunities to continuously engage in ongoing advocacy issues!

The 3rd Annual Governors State University Physical Therapy Student Association Networking Gala on September 19th, 2021 exceeded all expectations! 

80 attendees from Governors State University, Northwestern University, Midwestern University, Rosalind Franklin University, Northern Illinois University, University of Illinois – Chicago, and Fox College enjoyed a delightful evening at the Columbia Yacht Club in Chicago networking with each other, fellow clinicians, and educators. 

During the event, the IPTF announced the 2021 recipients of the “Student to Student’ Scholarship. Grace Garcia, SPT from Governor State University and Christina Crawford, SPT from Northwestern University were each awarded with a $1,000 scholarship. Proceeds from this year’s event will help fund 2 more “Student to Student” scholarships in 2022. 

Kudos to the Governors State University Physical Therapy Student Association (GSU PTSA) and Emilio Zayas, PT, DPT, for organizing such a great event. 

Be on the lookout for the announcement of the date for next year's event. This is such a great evening, you won't want to miss the 2022 event!

Grace Garcia, SPT, 2021 "Student to Student" Scholarship Recipient	Christina Crawford, SPT, 2021 "Student to Student" Scholarship Recipient

02/18/2019