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Alumni AwardsYour Gift Will Make a Difference

We recently jumped up six spots in the U.S. News & World Report rankings of "Best Grad Schools in America" to #13! A big part of that is based on the success and support of our outstanding alumni and friends.

In addition, we are the second highest ranked program in the Southeast. We know that your belief in our program and our students - your future alumni colleagues - enhances our national reputation. It is also vital to our future so we hope you will explore the variety of opportunities to support UAB PT.

We like to tell people: give where your heart is. Your generosity will ensure that the legacy of our program, our students and our alumni will only continue to rise year after year after year. Thank you.

Areas of Need

You can contribute to the Department of Physical Therapy in a number of ways. You can choose to support a fund highlighted below or choose from one of our other giving opportunities.

  • Endowed scholarships and awards are held in perpetuity. Gifts to endowments are invested and produce annual income to provide award funds for students each year.

    Cecilia Graham Endowed Award

    The Cecilia Graham Endowed Award is named in memory of Dr. Cecilia “Ceil” Graham, a highly regarded faculty member who had a passion for physical therapy education and service. This scholarship is available to students who, like Ceil, have an interest in physical therapy education and service, and who wish to participate in professional development opportunities.

    Give to the Cecilia Graham Endowed Award

    Shirley Shaddeau Endowed Memorial Scholarship

    The Shirley Shaddeau Endowed Memorial Scholarship is named in memory of Ms. Shirley Shaddeau, who was a highly devoted and gentle educator in the UAB Department of Physical Therapy. The endowment was established through a generous gift from Sue Shaddeau to honor the memory of her sister, Shirley, and her dedication to the profession of physical therapy. The fund continues to receive additional contributions from family, alumni and friends.

    Give to the Shirley Shaddeau Endowed Memorial Scholarship

    Sharon E. Shaw Endowed Scholarship

    Sharon E. Shaw was a long-time faculty member and Chair of the UAB Department of Physical Therapy from 1998-2013 when she retired. Sharon was passionate about community service and participated in AIDS related charities in Alabama for many years. In honor of her service to UAB, the PT profession, and the community, an endowed scholarship was established in her honor in 2015. This scholarship provides financial assistance to students with a desire to provide physical therapy services to underserved populations.

    Give to the Sharon E. Shaw Endowed Scholarship

  • Current use funds are immediately available for award.

    Department of Physical Therapy Scholarship Fund

    Your gift to the Department of Physical Therapy Scholarship Fund provides financial assistance to students to offset the costs associated with tuition, fees, housing, and more.

    Give to the Department of Physical Therapy Scholarship Fund

    PT Student Professional Development Fund

    Your contribution to the PT Student Development Fund provides awards for conference related expenses such as registration fees, travel, and lodging, as well as other professional development opportunities. These types of experiences provide students with invaluable networking and educational opportunities that will greatly impact their careers.

    Give to the PT Student Professional Development Fund

  • Department of Physical Therapy Gift Fund

    Your gift to the Department of Physical Therapy Gift Fund provides the department with flexibility to support key priorities. Your support allows us to continue to provide outstanding academic programs and world-class research.

    Give to the Department of Physical Therapy Gift Fund

    Marilyn R. Gossman Endowed Lecture

    The Marilyn R. Gossman Endowed Lecture is named in memory of Dr. Marilyn Gossman, a physical therapist, educator, researcher, and influential leader who served UAB for over 30 years. This endowment supports lectures and promotes life-long learning and collaboration between UAB faculty, students, alumni and experts in the field of physical therapy.

    Give to the Marilyn R. Gossman Endowed Lecture

    PhD in Rehabilitation Science Program Gift Fund

    Your gift to the PhD in Rehabilitation Science Program Gift Fund provides the department with flexibility to support key priorities of the program. Your support allows us to continue to provide an outstanding academic program and world-class research.

    Give to the PhD in Rehabilitation Science Program Gift Fund

Questions? Contact Us

We would love to begin a conversation with you today. Please contact any member of our team to discuss why you are ready to give.

Sarah Jenks

Sarah Jenks

Assistant Director of Development
205-996-5930 or
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