We Are Better When We Rize Together
Every patient deserves to have access to affordable, effective care—and feel represented by their healthcare provider. That’s why we offer scholarships and career development to aspiring physical therapists. Our vision? A future rooted in inclusive excellence and exceptional leadership.
We believe that physical therapy is for everyone.
Yet a major PT provider shortage and the high cost of care prevents many patients (especially those who are low-income or marginalized) from seeking the musculoskeletal care they need to lead a functional and pain-free life.
At Rizing Tide, we believe that supporting historically underrepresented student physical therapists through graduation will improve accessibility for all patients. More working providers with a wider net of cultural knowledge is a net positive to all! To that end, we provide scholarships, career development, and a supportive community to empower the next generation of DPT leaders.
Our Impact Since Launching in 2021
$1.7 million
Committed to further the education of Rizing Tide scholars
69 scholars
Supported from DPT and residency programs across the country
46 hours
Of premium live education (either virtual or in-person) provided to scholars to date
47 DPT programs
Represented amongst our four cohorts of scholars
1,100 applicants
Submitted an entry to earn a Rizing Tide scholarship
100% graduation
Rate amongst our four cohorts of scholars
Rizing Tide is a scholarship program—and a community, too.
Physical therapy school is notoriously tough to attend. Tuition is high, the curriculum is challenging, and sometimes students don’t have the rock-solid support they need to succeed. At Rizing Tide, we aim to relieve these pain points! In addition to financial aid, Rizing Tide empowers scholars by organizing:
- Mentorship opportunities with industry leaders,
- Quarterly educational sessions with expert speakers,
- An all-expenses-paid trip to our annual in-person summit,
- A community of like-minded students and residents, and
- Opportunities and connections for clinical affiliations and future employment.
We are so much more than a scholarship program. We are a networking force, a professional development educator, and an avenue for mentorship and employment. We are a community!
Scholarships
Each year, Rizing Tide presents scholarships to 23 outstanding students who are on the path to earn their Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) degree or are furthering their PT education by pursuing a residency program. Scholarship recipients are selected by our Beachcombers committee on the basis of merit and potential future impact.
Crest
Surge
"A rising tide lifts all boats."
John F Kennedy
Resources
Press Release: Rizing Tide Foundation Reports 2025 Growth and New Programs Supporting DPT Students
Foundation highlights growth in sponsorships, scholar recognition, and expanded mentorship…
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Money Talks: A 2025 DPT Student Loan Survey
What happens when the best of the best are drowning…
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Advancing Men’s Pelvic Health: Expert Perspectives on the Growing Need for Specialized PTs
Men’s pelvic health is a deeply under-explored area of physical…
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