Rizing Tide Scholars
To combat the lack of diversity in the physical therapy profession, the Rizing Tide foundation annually supports a group of high-achieving individuals who are pursuing a career as a physical therapist and who come from underrepresented racial and ethnic backgrounds.
Crest Scholars
Rizing Tide annually awards the Crest scholarship to first- or second-year DPT students who are pursuing a DPT degree either part-time or full-time.
Jake Sentman
University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
Born for the storm and built to overcome it. As an adopted Guatemalan child who lost his mother to colon cancer at the age of eleven, Jake is no stranger to battling adversity. But even when the flowers were knocked back, the roots remained. After graduating from UNC Wilmington with a Bachelor of Science in exercise science, Jake decided to continue his growth as an SPT and joined the class of 2027 at UNC Chapel Hill. Despite being an underdog from Hampstead, NC, Jake feels driven to uplift the profession for the love of the individuals around him. If one thing can define him, it's that an underdog is a hungry dog—and hungry dogs run faster.
Asmaa Embaby
Rutgers School of Health Professions
Asmaa Embaby is a second-year DPT student at Rutgers School of Health Professions whose DPT journey began in high school after a devastating sports injury. Despite missing out on a promising season, she saw the setback as an opportunity that ignited her passion for physical therapy. As a young, ambitious woman, Asmaa embodies the core values of a great prospective healthcare professional: empathic, ethical, and dedicated. She graduated Summa Cum Laude and earned her Bachelor of Science in Biology and a minor in psychology at William Paterson University. She continued to work as an EMT for over three years when she started on a volunteer squad during the start of the COVID-19 pandemic. Additionally, she is the assistant director of her school’s pro-bono clinic, providing quality physical therapy services to an underserved community in Newark, NJ. As a first-generation college student, Asmaa is an exemplary role model to her peers and future DPTs.
Zachary Chen
George Washington University
As a first year DPT student at The George Washington University, Zachary Chen is ready to delve deeply into the daring and challenging environments within the world of physical therapy. With an endlessly curious and inquisitive nature, he is committed to push far beyond the boundaries of his comfort zones and submerse himself in the new experiences that await him in the program. Full of persistent passion and caring compassion, he is dedicated to seamlessly blend his love of physical therapy with his love of neuroscience to bring about unforeseen positive changes within the world of physical therapy and beyond.
Taliyah Morgan
Tennessee State University
Taliyah Morgan is a first-year DPT student at Tennessee State University. She was introduced to physical therapy after dislocating her elbow caused by a high school basketball injury, and she quickly realized from this experience that an injury can take a toll on a individual not only physically but also mentally and emotionally. Her successful role as a physical therapy technician helped solidify her ability to showcase empathy, compassion, and altruism needed to ensure a patient has the proper external motivation and support to successfully recover from all aspects of an injury. Currently serving as the APTA Liaison Chair of her class, she is passionate about advocating for the profession of physical therapy in general while also more specifically advocating for health equity. She believes no one should live life in pain due to lack of resources/funds, and she is committed to serving underrepresented and underserved communities.
Jalyn Gorman
Creighton University
Jalyn Gorman is a second year DPT student originally from Fort Defiance, Arizona. He earned his Bachelor of Science in Exercise Science from Northern Arizona University. He also earned his Master of Science in Athletic Training from Northern Arizona University. Jalyn's passion for Physical Therapy started when he was working at a healthcare facility on the Navajo Reservation. He witnessed first hand the disparities in healthcare on the reservation and he always had a passion to help others. Physical Therapists meet many of their patients who are at the lowest points of their lives. Observing their dramatic impact on their patients’ physical and mental health inspired him to pursue a career in this profession. As a proud member of the Navajo Tribe, Jalyn is deeply committed to supporting, uplifting, and advocating for his community. Drawing on his heritage and personal experiences, Jalyn is focused on bridging gaps in healthcare access and providing high-quality care to underserved populations. Currently, Jalyn is pursuing his DPT at Creighton University in Phoenix, Arizona.
Sixela Cabellero
Elon University
Sixela is a first-generation Latina from Raleigh, North Carolina. She comes from a large family and is deeply motivated to make them proud. Sixela is currently pursuing her Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) degree at Elon University, where she is dedicated to advancing her skills and knowledge in the field of physical therapy.
Davion Enders-Jones
Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center
Davion Enders-Jones, a dedicated second-year student at Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, exemplifies leadership and commitment as both the Class President and SPTA President for his cohort across three campuses. With a Bachelor of Science in Kinesiology from Texas Tech University, Davion's path to becoming a physical therapist was shaped by his own experiences overcoming numerous sports injuries. Drawing from the grit and resilience developed as an athlete, Davion is devoted to helping his future patients unlock their full potential. He is deeply engaged in understanding the mind-body connection and mastering advanced manual techniques, with a vision to pass this knowledge on to the next generation of physical therapists, ensuring continued excellence in patient care.
Jude Alvarado
Maryville University
Jude is a dedicated personal trainer and an incoming second-year physical therapy student. With a passion for fitness and rehabilitation, he combines academic expertise with practical skills to help clients achieve their health and wellness goals. Outside of his studies and work, Jude is deeply passionate about art and aspires to attend anatomical drawing school. He aims to use his artistic skills to enhance physical therapy education materials and hopes to be published as an illustrator in textbooks. Jude also plans to open his own clinic in Chicago, where he will advocate for youth fitness and inspire the next generation to lead healthy, active lives.
Liliana Campuzano
Texas State University, Round Rock
Lili Campuzano is a second-year Doctor of Physical Therapy student at Texas State University–Round Rock. A first-generation student and DACA recipient, Lili migrated from Mexico at the age of 11, seeking safety and better educational opportunities. Her introduction to rehabilitation began at a young age through her grandmother, who provided care to villagers in their remote Mexican community. Growing up in a low-income household where professional medical care was often out of reach, Lili witnessed the profound impact of healthcare disparities. These experiences have fueled her commitment to advocating for equitable healthcare and addressing the needs of underrepresented communities. Lili aspires to establish a physical therapy practice that provides quality care and offers internships to minority students, empowering others to follow in her footsteps. Her ultimate goal is to create a foundation that provides scholarships to support future BIPOC leaders in the physical therapy field, who will join her in addressing healthcare disparities in underrepresented communities.
Alyssa Nelson-Kamalu
Tufts University School of Medicine
Alyssa graduated from Mount Holyoke College in 2011 with a BA in Sociology. She went on to pursue her MS in Criminal Justice at Suffolk University, graduating in 2013. She spent the next 8 years establishing herself as a criminal justice advocate. Alyssa began to reevaluate her career choice after being referred to physical therapy during intensive breast cancer treatment. In August 2021, Alyssa took a leap of faith, quit her job as a Elder Protective Services Supervisor, and devoted the next two years to fulfilling the prerequisites necessary to seek admission to Tufts University DPT program in Boston. She is so proud to have completed her first semester as a Tufts Jumbo!
Motivated by her battle with breast cancer, birthing two children, and the lack of diversity in the field, Alyssa hopes to become an oncology and pelvic health specialized PT. She believes physical therapy needs to become a standard of care for oncology patients and pregnant persons as both play a role in changing the way the body functions.
2024 Rizing Stars
Kathy Trinh
University of Washington
Kathy Trinh, always in the role of an observer, had never personally undergone physical therapy. However, due to these appointments being an essential aspect for her family, she grew a clear understanding and interest for the growing field of rehab. While her sister had the privilege of immediate and affordable access to therapy, Kathy's mother and grandmother faced a different situation. Having immigrated from Vietnam after the war, they endured preventable pain due to the lack of adequate care and the challenges of obtaining equitable treatment.
This inspired a passion for equity and intersectional community service as Kathy strongly believes in creating change to close the gap on the ongoing issues of systemic barriers, whether socioeconomic, cultural or environmental. Being a second generation immigrant herself, she advocated for herself to push for a college education and received a bachelor’s in Public Health at the University of Washington.
Tommy Woods
Shenandoah University
Tommy is a graduate from Norfolk State University where he played baseball with a major in Exercise Science and a Minor in Psychology. He is currently in a dual Doctorate of Physical Therapy/ Masters of Athletic Training at Shenandoah University. Tommy’s dream is to become a Sports Performance Therapist for elite athletes in college and professional levels. His hobbies are working out, cooking, traveling, and learning Spanish. Tommy’s why for Physical Therapy stems from the lack of representation in underserved communities. Becoming a physical therapist allow him the opportunity to help have a direct impact on the community around him.
Makenna Dixon
Washington University in St. Louis
Makenna Dixon is a second year DPT student attending Washington University in St. Louis. She grew up in northern Virginia where she found her love for physical therapy while attending her mother’s physical therapy sessions. During this time her mother lost employment which led to the inability to obtain health insurance that resulted in her health to decline rapidly due to limited financial support to access healthcare resources. From this experience she learned that lack of financial support, stability, or affordability of health care and insurance should not determine whether an individual can obtain physical therapy services and became passionate about opening up a pro bono clinic in the future. She wants to advocate and help to combat racial disparities in ensuring individuals can have the opportunity to get proper care they need for their health beyond physical therapy. She has an interest in pursing inpatient Neurorehabilitation as a speciality following her graduate studies.
Yousef Tamimi
Carlow University
Yousef Tamimi is a first-year DPT student at Carlow University. Born in Iraq and forced to relocate multiple times due to war, Yousef sought refuge in the United States nine years ago, where he worked diligently to support his family before embarking on his academic journey. He earned his Bachelor of Science in Biology from Carlow University, graduating summa cum laude. During his undergraduate studies, Yousef presented two research projects and was invited to serve on three university committees and one city planning committee, demonstrating his leadership and commitment to his community. Yousef’s own experience with physical therapy and his love for anatomy and physiology ignited his passion for the profession. Currently, Yousef is an active member of his cohort serving as the president of Carlow University's Student Physical Therapy Association.
Telkevia Mackey
Duke University
Telkevia Mackey, a second-year DPT student at Duke University, discovered her passion for physical therapy during a high school rehabilitation internship at a local community hospital. She was deeply inspired by the meaningful relationships between clinicians and patients, witnessing firsthand the profound impact therapists have on their patients' lives. Growing up in a large, low-income family, Telkevia has always been driven to pursue a career where she can make a significant difference in others' lives. Her ultimate goal is to become a pediatric physical therapist, helping children and their families enhance their quality of life and function.
James Lee
Hardin-Simmons University
James Lee is a first year DPT student at Hardin-Simmons University. He earned his Bachelor of Science in Exercise Science and his Bachelor of Arts in Spanish at Harding University. James was inspired to pursue physical therapy by his constant involvement in sports throughout his childhood. He was intrigued by how people can heal their bodies through proper treatment and care. As a Korean American, James has learned a lot about what it means to connect with others. He has grown to appreciate getting to know people from a variety of cultures. With a degree in Spanish, James has received his Global Seal of Biliteracy in the language, further contributing to his goal of reaching others. James is inspired to contribute to the world of physical therapy in his own unique way and is thankful to have the opportunity to continue to fulfill his lifelong dream of becoming a physical therapist.
Ka'Leah Davis
Georgia Southern University, Savannah Campus
Ka'Leah, originally from Griffin, GA, began her academic journey at the United States Military Academy at West Point, NY. Although she faced medical disqualification after her first year, her dedication to becoming an Army Officer remained unwavering. She went on to earn a B.S. in Exercise Science from Georgia Southern University, graduating Summa Cum Laude as a proud first-generation college graduate and Army Second Lieutenant. Ka'Leah is now a second-year doctoral student at Georgia Southern and a passionate entrepreneur. She founded the non-profit PureNTENT, a groundbreaking organization dedicated to community outreach, mentorship, and advocacy for mental health, LGBTQIA+ issues, and diversity. Ka'Leah’s ambition extends to advancing the field of physical therapy and expanding access to holistic health and fitness services. She envisions creating a comprehensive facility focusing on underserved and underrepresented communities. Her goal is to integrate physical therapy, fitness, and overall well-being, ensuring these crucial services reach those who need them most. Guided by Maya Angelou’s quote, “You may encounter many defeats, but you must not be defeated,” Ka'Leah exemplifies perseverance and commitment in all her endeavors.
Andrea Bejaran Choto
University of Nevada, Las Vegas
Andrea is a second-year DPT student at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas. Her path to physical therapy began as she translated for her Spanish-speaking parents during their therapy sessions for work-related injuries. Witnessing the challenges faced by her parents, who came to the U.S. seeking a better future, inspired her to bridge the gap in quality healthcare. Driven by a passion for helping others, Andrea is excited to join the Rizing Tide Community. As president of the DEI club in her program, she is committed to advancing diversity in physical therapy, especially for underserved populations, and fostering inclusive, supportive environments for future patients.
Jessah Doctor
University Of Connecticut
Hi I am Jessah Doctor ! I’m from Waterbury CT, I have always had a passion in sports and music growing up. I am now taking those passions and seeing how I can apply them to my professional development. Physical therapy has so many opportunities for you to succeed whether you are receiving care or want to join our ever growing profession. Find your why and never let it go!
Aliyah Hunter
University of Pittsburgh
"Aliyah Hunter is a first year DPT student from Stafford, Virginia . She earned her Bachelor of Science in Exercise Science at Chatham University. She was first introduced to the field of Physical Therapy through receiving treatments for various sport injuries. It wasn’t until after a surgery complication; where she lost her ability to walk, that she really found her passion for Physical Therapy. After regaining full health with the help of her Physical Therapist, she started to focus on her own journey to becoming a Physical Therapist. She partook in various shadowing and internship experiences. She also had the pleasure of working as a Physical Therapist Aide at Fusion Rehab and Wellness in Spotsylvania, Virginia, where her love for Physical Therapy grew even more. She is excited to start her first semester at the University of Pittsburgh where she will gain the knowledge and wisdom to become the best Physical Therapist she can be.
Surge Scholars
Rizing Tide annually awards the Surge scholarship to graduating physical therapy students or licensed physical therapists who are entering—or have just begun—a residency program.
Christy Effendie-Peterson, DPT
MAC Performance Physical Therapy Sports Residency
Christy is currently a sports physical therapy resident at MAC Performance PT in Sacramento, California. Her career in athletics began at UC Davis where she competed for the Olympic Taekwondo team, worked for the athletics department, and served on the leadership team for Athletes in Action. She would later go on to become a full-time Athletics Communications Director, garnering experience in all three NCAA levels and at the semi-professional level. She shifted her focus to physical therapy in 2018 in order to better serve athletes on a one-on-one basis and received her doctorate in physical therapy from Azusa Pacific University in 2022. During her schooling, she served as a graduate student assistant in neuroanatomy and neurorehabilitation courses for younger cohorts. Now a resident, Christy aims to deepen her skills as a sports therapist in order to see athletes return to play at the highest level as safely and efficiently as possible. She strives to see increased female and minority representation within sports and is an advocate for the role of physical therapy in collegiate athletics.
Brandon Johnson, DPT, MS, CSCS, CiDN
Regis University Residency in Orthopedic Physical Therapy
Brandon Johnson, PT, DPT, MS, CSCS, CiDN is a Florida-native physical therapist with his Doctorate from Regis University and is currently attending their Orthopedic Residency program. Dr. Johnson has a strong academic foundation in the exercise sciences, earning both a Bachelors and Masters of Science in Applied Kinesiology and Physiology from the University of Florida. With over a decade of fitness industry experience as a Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist (CSCS), he has continually displayed an unwavering enthusiasm for health, wellness, and fitness, evident in his dedication to helping individuals optimize their human performance.
During his graduate studies at Regis, he served as their first African American/Native American Student Body President, on the School of Physical Therapy Advisory Board, as Co-chair of the AAOMPT Student Sig, the Student Graduate Council, and was awarded the Regis University School of Physical Therapy Excellence in Leadership Award. He was also selected to be an APTA Leadership Scholar identifying impactful rising emerging leaders within the field of physical therapy to help lead the field into the future. He is an active member of the APTA with involvement in the Colorado Chapter, as well as, Orthopedic and Sports Sections. His dedication to his personal development and leadership underscores his commitment to providing comprehensive and effective care to a myriad of patients of various backgrounds, while endeavoring to evolve himself as an individual and further elevate his practice.
In addition to his expertise in various fields, Dr. Johnson possesses a keen interest in manual therapy, therapeutic exercises, sports rehabilitation, and professional leadership. He contributed to the Denver Nuggets’ championship-winning 2022-2023 season as part of their sports performance team, excelling in high-pressure, multidisciplinary settings. Outside of the clinic work, Dr. Johnson enjoys resistance training, hiking, and live concert events, bringing a dynamic and compassionate approach to empowering patients toward recovery and peak performance.
Shelley Menk, DPT
Women's Health Residency Program at The University of New Mexico
Shelley Menk is a physical therapist from Albuquerque, New Mexico who earned her Doctorate in Physical Therapy from the University of Texas Medical Branch. She has practiced in the physical therapy field for over a decade and has treated veterans, children, and aging adults. Shelley developed a passion for treating patients with pelvic related conditions as she learned about the underserved nature of the patient population and experienced postpartum pelvic floor dysfunction after the birth of her children. Shelley is now leveraging this experience to help others on their road to recovery. She is currently completing a residency through the University of New Mexico to obtain a Women's Health Clinical Specialist Certification (WCS), and she is thrilled about the opportunity to continue to assist these underserved patients as she develops in the field.
2024 Rizing Stars
Juan Pablo Rodriguez, DPT
University of Miami and Jackson Rehabilitation Hospital’s Orthopedic Residency
Juan Pablo Rodriguez is a Colombian American from West Palm Beach Florida. He is a NSCA Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist, Doctor of Physical Therapy, and current Orthopedic Physical Therapy Resident at the University of Miami’s Miller School of Medicine. Juan is a huge science and philosophy nerd and loves traveling, exploring, and connecting with others. Juan currently treats across the spectrum in orthopedics but has a unique interest in managing complex persistent pain cases and enjoys serving ethnically diverse communities including the Latinx community.
Andres Isaac Ramos, DPT
Harris Health Orthopedic Physical Therapy Residency
