Savanah Phillips

Dear Therapeutic Associates Inc., I want to express my heartfelt appreciation for selecting me as a recipient of the DEI&B Bridging the Gap Scholarship. Being chosen for this scholarship fills me with immense gratitude and excitement as I prepare to begin my Doctorate of Physical Therapy program this fall. Your support means so much to me, as it lightens the financial burden of pursuing my advanced degree and allows me to focus even more on my studies and the journey ahead. Knowing that this scholarship was created to increase minority representation in leadership within physical therapy makes this recognition even more meaningful to me as a first-generation queer Mexican-American student. With over 11 years of coaching water polo, I have learned firsthand the power of empathy, leadership, and resilience—qualities I carry with me as I work toward becoming a physical therapist who truly makes a difference. My hope is to serve and advocate for others, particularly those who may feel unseen or underrepresented, and to help foster a more inclusive and empowering future in the field. I deeply admire Therapeutic Associates Inc.’s commitment to patient-centered care and professional growth. Your dedication to innovative rehabilitation inspires me to grow as both a leader and a compassionate healer. I’m honored to be part of your mission to bridge gaps and open doors for future leaders in physical therapy. Your generosity has made a lasting impact on my life, and I look forward to the day when I can pay it forward and support others as you have supported me. Thank you, Savanah Phillips

Cindy Lao

Dear Therapeutic Associates Inc., Thank you so much for awarding me the DEI&B Bridging the Gap Scholarship! I am so excited to receive the news—it truly means a lot to me. I just moved to Durham and have been getting settled in as I prepare to start the DPT program at Duke. It is a big transition, but I am feeling incredibly grateful and energized to begin this next chapter. Your support is helping make that possible. As someone who identifies as both a first-generation college student and immigrant, it is so encouraging to be supported by a team that values representation and equity in healthcare. Thank you again for your generosity! Sincerely, Cindy Lao