Nine students in Georgia Southern University’s Doctor of Physical Therapy program have received the Ross Bowers Therapy Scholarship from AMBUCS, a national nonprofit that works to increase mobility and independence for people with disabilities.
The scholarship is given to outstanding graduate students in physical and occupational therapy programs. It aims to support their education while encouraging ongoing service and advocacy for those facing mobility challenges.
DPT student Samantha Miller described her experiences with AMBUCS: “I’ve been involved with AMBUCS for some time and have seen the joy it brings to children through adaptive sports, bowling programs and free adaptive bikes. These experiences have shaped my vision as a future physical therapist and reinforced my commitment to creating similar opportunities for my future patients.”
Shaylan Wassner said her decision to pursue physical therapy came after caring for her grandmother during rehabilitation. “It amazed me to see the bonds she had made with her physical therapy team and the life-changing improvements physical therapy made for her,” she said. “That experience opened my eyes to the amazing impact PT can have.” She also noted, “The professors bring a diverse set of expertise. They provided me with a well-rounded education.”
Kaitlyn Shepherd reflected on how AMBUCS contributed to her experience at Georgia Southern: “AMBUCS has been a place of joy and community over my last two years living in Savannah. I’m so grateful for the financial support, but also for the memories, relationships and conversations I will always hold close to my heart.”
Amelia Luciani, who plans to work in pediatrics, said: “It furthers our involvement with AMBUCS, which is important to all of us. You have to get creative with treatment to make it fun, which makes it more fun for the therapist, too!”
Stephen Jones explained his motivation: “Watching family members physically deteriorate due to lack of awareness about physical therapy lit a fire in me. I want to help families avoid that suffering by raising awareness of PT’s benefits.” He credited faculty members Mark Powers, Ph.D., and Haley Worst, Ph.D., saying: “They’ve shown me that going the extra mile for patients can transform lives.”
The Ross Bowers Therapy Scholarship recognizes not only academic achievement but also dedication to service within the field of physical therapy.
