Think current doctor of physical therapy (DPT) students are impressive? The American Council of Academic Physical Therapy (ACAPT) couldn't agree more—and is getting ready to underscore that opinion by unveiling its first-ever cohort of ACAPT National Physical Therapy Student Honor Society inductees. APTA membership is a requirement for consideration.

Known as Delta Phi Tau (DPT), plans for the society were finalized in 2018 with applications accepted soon after. The deadline for the first round of applications is due March 31, and decisions on inductees will be made during April and May.

Delta Phi Tau inductees will be APTA-member DPT students "who exemplify outstanding traits in leadership, research, and service to society characterized by consistent demonstration of strong moral character and ethics," according to ACAPT. In addition to being ranked in the top 15% of their class, successful applicants must have completed a minimum of 60% of their DPT programs and be able to demonstrate achievements in service and leadership. Letters of support are also required.

ACAPT Board of Directors member Jim Farris, PT, PhD, said that ACAPT took a careful, inclusive approach to creating the new society and establishing its requirements.

"The task force commissioned by ACAPT to design the criteria included students and faculty selected to represent the diversity of ACAPT institutional members," Farris said. "The task force worked for over a year and submitted multiple drafts to the board of directors prior to obtaining board approval, and we launched the honor society at the 2019 APTA Combined Sections Meeting."

Farris believes that the careful approach resulted in an honor society that reflects the strength of DPT education programs across the country.

"Delta Phi Tau is a wonderful way for ACAPT to recognize the excellence demonstrated by our member institutions' students," said Farris. "Many of our inductees are likely to be future leaders in the profession, and it's important to recognize not only their potential, but the very real achievements they've reached during their education."