Students from across the country were recognized June 13 during the Foundation for Physical Therapy Research (Foundation) awards luncheon for their participation in the 31st annual Marquette Challenge—which for 2019-2020 will be called the VCU-Marquette Challenge. Virginia Commonwealth University (VCU) was recognized as the top fundraising school, raising $34,327. The challenge now takes on VCU’s name along with host Marquette University as part of the contest's tradition.

Earning second place was the University of Pittsburgh ($22,648), and coming in third was the University of Delaware ($18,323). The Foundation also recognized Marquette University students for their financial commitment to the challenge in raising $25,000.

The annual challenge is a grassroots fundraising effort coordinated and carried out by student physical therapists and physical therapist assistants across the country.

This year, more than 150 schools nationwide participated in creative efforts to support the Foundation, raising a total of $266,019.

Funds raised through the challenge go toward physical therapy research grants and scholarships and support the rigorous scientific review process that helps the Foundation identify the most promising new investigators. Since 2002, 27 research grants and scholarships have been awarded in the name of the challenge. Funds from the challenge also supported a recent high-priority research grant to look at physical therapist interventions for older adults who have multiple chronic conditions.

To view the complete list of participating schools visit the Foundation's webpage.