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Our association celebrates its centennial in 2021.
Our story began with a calling: to serve those who sacrificed so much for our country in World War I. Where others saw limitation, we saw potential.
Since our founding in 1921, we have moved forward together, with a passion and commitment to transform lives and strengthen our profession.
Visit our centennial website to see how you can participate in our celebration of APTA's first 100 years.
Recommended Content
May 8, 2020 / Website
Engage, celebrate, and serve with us in 2021 as we celebrate 100 years of our association.
May 8, 2020 / Website
Browse our interactive timeline of 100 notable events from our association’s first 100 years.
May 8, 2020 / Article
Our first century saw war, public health crises, and the continued growth of our association in strength and numbers.
Additional APTA History Content
Feb 25, 2020 / Resource
The centennial is a unique opportunity for our community to engage, celebrate, and serve, as we embrace our rich history and generate momentum toward our exciting future.
Feb 19, 2020 / News
A web-based, multimedia journey through the past 99 years of the profession.
Dec 1, 2019 / Feature
As APTA prepares to celebrate its centennial in 2021, we are charting a course that honors the strength of the past 100 years while preparing for an exciting future.
Nov 8, 2019 / Perspective
Recognizing the unique role and contributions of the military in advancing the physical therapy profession.
Nov 1, 2019 / Feature
APTA will officially roll out its new brand in 2020. Here's what to expect.
Aug 16, 2019 / Article
Thomas G. McPoil, PT, PhD, FAPTA, discusses his Mary McMillan Lecture at APTA’s NEXT 2019 in Chicago.
Jun 28, 2019 / Article
APTA President Sharon L. Dunn, PT, PhD, Board-Certified Orthopaedic Clinical Specialist, addressed the House of Delegates, June 10, 2019.
Jun 11, 2019 / Statement
Watch or read the annual address by APTA President Sharon L. Dunn, PT, PhD, at APTA’s House of Delegates, June 10, 2019.
May 1, 2019 / Feature
Half a century ago, the first physical therapist assistants (PTAs) entered the workforce. Their roles, numbers, and participation within APTA have grown steadily. (This article is updated from an earlier story published in a 2004 issue of APTA's PT: Magazine of Physical Therapy that celebrated the 35th anniversary of the PTA.1)