Listening Time — 31:47
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Two students. One lobby day. A meaningful impact that reached the state legislature.
In this episode, discover how DPT students Ally Clark and Brian Pham turned preparation into opportunity — earning an invitation to testify after APTA Virginia's Lobby Day. Joined by VCU faculty members Alicia Flach, PT, DPT, EdD, and Katie Shaab, PT, DPT, PhD, along with APTA Virginia President Emily Hawkins, PT, DPT, PhD, we unpack how students are trained for advocacy, what makes a lobby day successful, and why your voice matters.
Tune in to learn practical strategies for organizing and participating in a state lobby day, guidance for getting started in advocacy, and why engaging at every stage of your career is critical.
Ready to get involved in advocacy? Check out the following APTA resources to get started.
- Download the APTA Advocacy App.
- Start a discussion in the APTA Community.
- Join the APTA Advocacy Network and read all the latest advocacy news.
- Participate in the APTA Student Advocacy Challenge.
Our Speakers
Emily Hawkins, PT, DPT, PhD, is a physical therapy educator, leader, and scholar dedicated to preparing compassionate, practice-ready professionals. Hawkins serves as president of APTA Virginia and is the director of clinical education for the Doctor of Physical Therapy program at Old Dominion University.
Alicia Flach, PT, DPT, EdD, is an associate professor at Virginia Commonwealth University. She is an experienced educator, clinician, and researcher with a focus on collaborating with people with neurologic injuries and conditions.
Kathryn Shaab, PT, DPT, PhD, is an assistant professor and director of DPT student affairs for Virginia Commonwealth University. She combines clinical expertise with a deep passion for andragogy to inform her role as a rehabilitation instructor.
Brian Pham, SPT, is a VCU DPT student entering into clinical rotations. He is looking to stay active in advocacy through school and after graduation.
Ally Clark, SPT, is a second-year DPT student at VCU entering clinical rotations. She takes a special interest in health equity and plans to continue advocacy efforts through her remaining time at VCU and beyond graduation.
Alicia Hosmer, CME, AAiP, is senior director of brand strategy and communications at APTA and has over 20 years of experience leading brand and growth initiatives for associations.