Student SIG Leadership Team

School: Duke University

Hometown: Columbus, Nebraska

Why Serve?: I decided to apply because I wanted to be part of something greater than myself. I have always had a passion for service, advocacy, and building connections. The role of Chair has allowed me to guide and support others in their passions and goals. We are so lucky to be in a state that is so supportive of the physical therapy profession and education. As Chair, I hope to help increase the value of student membership and involvement across all DPT and PTA programs. I am a firm believer in the power of learning from others to become a better version of yourself. I look forward to doing that in this role.

School: Duke University

Hometown: Birmingham, Alabama

Why Serve?: Nothing is more fulfilling to me than empowering others through service and advocacy. The APTA offers an incredible opportunity to do this while learning with and from a diverse group, building lasting relationships, and serving my future patients by deepening my understanding of health policy as a student. I'm grateful to be a part of such a passionate team dedicated to advancing health equity and shaping the future of our fields!

School: High Point University

Hometown:   Greenville, NC

Why Serve?: I decided to serve in this position because I wanted to be a part of something bigger than myself. The PT profession has given so much to me and this is my way of giving back to it!! In this position I am able to make positive changes and help shape the direction of where PT is heading in NC. So, to me the decision to join this team was a no-brainer! 

School: Duke University

Hometown: New York City, NY

Why Serve?: I’ve always had a passion for motivating, inspiring, and supporting those around me. The role of Assoc. Director of Student Engagement allows me the opportunity to bring together PT and PTA students by creating a learning environment that is both positive and welcoming for all. This role marks a new step for me in my leadership journey and I am eager to strengthen my skill sets through this experience and utilize it to prepare me for future leadership opportunities. As a member of the team, I look forward to expanding networking opportunities, creating meaningful experiences, and building a collaborative community of amazing students that are within this field of practice. 

School: Western Carolina University

Hometown: Olin, NC

Why Serve?: Throughout my life I have seen those around me, as well as myself personally struggle with access to resources and information when in need. I felt like since I had first hand experience with these struggles, I have a different perspective of how to manage community service and involvement. I wanted to give back and share to others who have not been as fortunate as me. 

School: High Point University

Hometown: Concord, NC

Why Serve?: I decided to serve as the Director of Community Service for the APTA NC Student SIG because being a resident of North Carolina my whole life and attending undergraduate and now graduate school here, I wanted to give back to the communities that have enriched my life in numerous ways! Additionally, I thought it was a beneficial way to network with other SPTs and SPTAs around NC!  

School: Western Carolina University

Hometown: Lexington, Kentucky

Why Serve?: I decided to get involved with the APTA NC SSIG because of my passion for promoting DEI. To me, diversity, equity, and inclusion means creating an environment where those around me can feel heard, respected and welcomed. I strive to listen and learn from others and promote a safe space. We all hold a plethora of identities representing each of us, myself included, and it is my goal to immerse this practice into my work as a student and future Physical Therapist. Personally, as a Hispanic, female-identified, lesbian, I know how important it is to enter a space and see/ interact with others that hold identities similar to mine and how loud the lack of that representation can feel. That is why it is so important to me to promote and practice diversity, equity, and inclusion in all areas of my life.

School: Duke University

Hometown: Dahlonega, GA

Why Serve?: I am serving as the Co-Chair for DEI due to my dedication to encourage an inclusive environment in the field of physical therapy. By serving in this role, I hope to increase belonging and representation to create an equitable path to becoming a PT. 

School: Nash Community College

Hometown: North Augusta, SC

Why Serve?: I wanted to ensure that the collaboration between SPTs and SPTAs continued evolving. I also wanted to ensure that the role stayed active, since it is a newer position. 

School: High Point University

Hometown: High Point, NC

Why Serve?: From my previous roles within project committees, I decided that I wanted to continue to get more involved with the SSIG. The natural progression was a student board position which has helped me continue to grow my communication skills (no pun intended) and leadership capabilities.

School: High Point University

Hometown: Raleigh, NC

Why Serve?: I decided to apply and serve because I value the opportunity to foster collaboration and connection among students across the state. This role allows me to use my organizational and communication skills to share meaningful updates, highlight student achievements, and promote professional growth. I was drawn to the change to support others by providing accessible resources and encouraging engagement within the PT community. Through this position, I hope to grow personally while contributing to a culture of support and innovation in our profession.