By Hazel Scott/ASU
Jada Watson, a Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) student at Alabama State University, is the recipient of the 2026 Crest Scholarship from the Rizing Tide, a foundation dedicated to expanding access to physical therapy by creating a more inclusive workforce.
Watson is one of only 19 winners selected from a competitive national pool of more than 500 applicants across the U.S. and Puerto Rico. As a Crest Scholar, Watson will receive $14,000 to subsidize tuition, room and board, books or fees for the upcoming academic year. The scholarship is renewable for up to two additional years as long as the scholar remains enrolled in their DPT program. The 2026 cohort is part of the foundation's significant pledge to award up to $570,000 in scholarships this year to DPT students from underrepresented racial and ethnic backgrounds.
“Receiving the Crest Scholarship has significantly reduced some of the financial stress for me and my family. The Doctor of Physical Therapy program requires a lot of time and dedication, so having this support allows me to focus more of my energy to my academics and clinical development,” said Watson. “More than anything, this scholarship is an investment in my future. It allows me to continue working toward becoming a physical therapist who makes a meaningful difference in the lives of my future patients.”
Recipients were selected by an esteemed panel of diverse industry professionals based on future impact potential, academic performance, character and leadership traits.
“The COHS congratulates Jada Watson on receiving the 2026 Crest Scholarship from the Rizing Tide Foundation! Jada’s academic excellence, leadership, professionalism, and commitment to the physical therapy profession make her highly deserving of this recognition. We are proud of her accomplishments and excited to see her future impact on the physical therapy profession,” said Dr. Charlene Portee, dean, College of Health Sciences.
In addition to financial support, Watson and fellow scholars will receive mentorship and leadership development programming. This includes all-inclusive access to the North Star Summit, the foundation's annual conference held in Phoenix, Arizona, providing vital networking and professional growth opportunities.