By Ryan Clark
CHS Communications Director

Cameron Elder, a Physical Therapy student in the Class of 2024, is a recipient of the Mary McMillan Scholarship Award, a national award recognizing four student physical therapists across the country within their final year of education who demonstrate “academic excellence, service to the American Physical Therapy Association, and potential for future contributions to the profession.”

Elder, a native of Louisville, will receive $5,000, and an award presented by the American Physical Therapy Association's Board of Directors at the APTA national event. An official announcement will appear in an association publication.

“This recognition from the APTA is a tremendous honor,” Elder said. “I am incredibly humbled to be nominated for this award, with recommendations from faculty and our students in the College of Health Sciences. This award is also truly motivating, as it signifies recognition for my academic achievements and support to continue pursuing my educational and professional goals.

“I would not be where I am today without the support and dedication of our faculty, staff, and my classmates and I believe this recognition serves as a testament to the guidance I’ve received within our program,” he continued.

Criteria for Selection included:

• Superior scholastic performance.
• Past productivity.
• Evidence of potential contribution to physical therapy.
• Service to the American Physical Therapy Association.

Patrick Pabian, PT, DPT, PhD, and chair of the Physical Therapy Department, noted how Elder embodies everything APTA was looking for.

“Cameron is an exceptional leader with immense potential,” he said. “He not only excels in the classroom, but also in his clinical practice, community service and dedication to the profession. He has been instrumental in re-developing a state-level student special interest group, and also getting UK on the national stage via involvement in numerous APTA initiatives in Washington, D.C. and beyond. We are very proud of him for receiving this honor.”

“I have had an amazing experience over the last seven years at the University of Kentucky and within the College of Health Sciences,” Elder said. “Classmates, mentors and instructors have provided unwavering support throughout the program and I’m confident these connections will remain strong long after graduation. The quality of education, availability of resources, and opportunities for involvement have left me feeling well prepared and excited for my next steps professionally. I could not recommend this University and program enough to any interested students.”