Blanca Moreno, part of the Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) Class of 2009, has recently received the 2009 Minority Affairs Award from the American Physical Therapy Association, New York Chapter. This award, given to only one student in New York State who is currently enrolled in a physical therapy educational program, recognizes outstanding contributions to the physical therapy profession.

“It is with great respect and admiration that I thank the College of Staten Island, especially the Physical Therapy Department for selecting me as the candidate for the APTA minority award,” Moreno says. “It would not have been possible without their support and trust in my character and abilities as a minority student. All the teachers, staff, and students have been an integral part of my learning and personal development as a student. I personally thank Dr. Maureen Becker and Dr. Jeffrey Rothman for giving me this opportunity to represent the College of Staten Island. It is a great honor and I am very happy to be the recipient of this award.”

In addition, as a result of the award, Moreno has received $180 toward her American Physical Therapy Association membership dues.

The Doctoral Program in Physical Therapy, which awards the DPT through The City University of New York Graduate Center, is designed to prepare students to become clinician-scientists who can perform all aspects of physical therapy practice and conduct clinical research.

DPT candidate Blanca Moreno has recently received the 2009 Minority Affairs Award from the APTA.