Clarkson Physical Therapy Student Named Melissa A. Walsh ’03 ’05 Memorial Endowed Scholarship Recipient
Clarkson University’s Melissa A. Walsh ’03 ’05 Memorial Endowed Scholarship has been awarded to the Class of 2024 student, Xuan Li, of Potsdam. The scholarship was established in memory of Walsh by her family and friends to assist a Clarkson University physical therapy student with qualities and goals similar to Walsh's.
Walsh was a Massena High School and Clarkson University graduate, who lost her life in a 2007 motor vehicle accident. At Clarkson, she earned a bachelor of science degree in psychology in 2003 and a master of physical therapy degree in 2005.
A description of the scholarship reads, in part, "The Walsh Scholarship was established to celebrate Melissa’s life and continue support of the physical therapy profession. Melissa was a standout student, respected amongst professors and peers. She went on to become a licensed physical therapist and worked in outpatient orthopedics. Melissa put her heart into all that she did, whether in relationships, education, or employment. Melissa was a role model in every sense of the word, in her personal life, her professional commitment, and her belief in caring for others. Melissa’s life and accomplishments are an excellent example of what a Clarkson University student should strive to achieve."
Ms. Li was chosen due to her passion for physical therapy, commitment to excellence and desire to be a life-long learner.
"After receiving my Ph.D degree in psychology of aging, I started to pursue a DPT degree at Clarkson to expand my career from the fundamental science to the clinical field,” Li noted in her application. “When I first met with physical therapy and people who were working in this field, I realized this was the thing that I had been searching for and desired to show my dedication to."
"Ms. Li is a fantastic student and exemplifies all the core values a student physical therapist should. She is compassionate, dedicated, hard-working and collaborative. She represents the things most important to Melissa, her family and the physical therapy profession, and we are proud to announce her as this year's recipient,” said Dr. Jaime Bicknell, Director of Clinical Education and Clinical Assistant Professor of Physical Therapy at Clarkson.
