IPTF Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) Scholarship

About the Scholarship

The IPTA and IPTF are committed to promoting diversity within the physical therapy profession to better serve Illinois residents. This scholarship supports PT and PTA students in their final year who demonstrate a commitment to DEI.

The IPTA defines underrepresented and underserved communities as individuals and groups who belong to racial, ethnic, cultural, sexual orientation, gender identity, nationality, immigrant status minorities, and individuals living with disabilities.

Eligibility

To be eligible, applicants must:

• Be current Illinois student PT or PTA members in good standing with the APTA/IPTA.
• Be in good academic standing and currently enrolled in a PT/PTA program (not limited to Illinois schools).
• Be in their final year of the program.
• Submit a complete application by the deadline (January 31, 2025).

Application Process

Applicants must submit the following in a single PDF document to [email protected] by January 31, 2025:

• Completed cover sheet (downloadable) with contact information and demographic data.
• List of DEI-related activities, volunteer experiences, and other pertinent information.
• A personal essay (maximum 600 words) outlining professional goals and contributions to DEI initiatives beyond academic requirements. The essay must answer these questions:
• Why are your DEI contributions significant?
• How have your activities impacted the communities you serve?
• How have your experiences impacted you personally?
• Three letters of recommendation:
• One from a faculty member verifying good academic standing.
• One from a clinical instructor attesting to work ethic and professionalism in promoting DEI.
• One from an individual confirming contributions to DEI.
• Unofficial transcript from the PT/PTA program showing GPA.

Selection and Award Process

Completed applications will be independently scored by a selection panel of reviewers not affiliated with any PT or PTA program attended by the applicants.

Applications will be scored competitively, emphasizing:

• Contributions to promoting DEI in communities and/or the profession.
• Academic accomplishments.

Selected recipients will be notified by March 1, 2025. Recipients will be recognized during the 2025 IPTA Virtual Assembly of Representatives and in IPTA publications. Checks will be mailed upon acceptance, and recipients will serve on the 2026 DEI Scholarship selection panel.

Award Details

PT students receive a one-time $2,500 stipend, and PTA students receive $1,500. All recipients also receive one-time funding for APTA/IPTA membership renewal.