PT students earn Honorable Mention Award in Marquette Challenge
Friday, July 13, 2018
Future physical therapists (PT) and physical therapist assistants (PTA) rallied across the country to set a record-breaking year for the Mercer-Marquette Challenge. The annual student-led fundraiser benefits the Foundation for Physical Therapy – a national nonprofit that funds physical therapy research to optimize health and movement.
The Marquette Challenge was launched in 1989 to support the Foundation and fund research grants and scholarships. Now in its 30th year, the Marquette Challenge has raised more than $4 million to aid the Foundation in its mission. Students from UIC, combined with 177 other schools, raised over $320K in the 2017-2018 fundraising cycle.
“It has been incredible to witness the dedication these students show towards their future profession and the Foundation,” said Foundation Board of Trustees President, Edelle Field-Fote, PT, PhD, FAPTA. “These students – and the faculty who encourage this passion – understand that we must invest in research and researchers to keep improving and demonstrating the value of physical therapy services.”
The money raised by PT students helps fund scholarships and grants that advance patient care. Additionally, the Challenge also supports the rigorous scientific review process for all Foundation grants and scholarships. Since 2002, 26 research grants and scholarships have been awarded in the name of the annual Challenge.
UIC PT students demonstrated their commitment to the profession and earned the Honorable Mention award for raising over $3,000 last year.