National Advocacy Dinner
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Submitted by Sarah Strong, SPT, Shenandoah University PT Class of 2020
The purpose of a National Advocacy Dinner is to bring physical therapy students together to learn about, and discuss, advocacy for the profession and the patients we serve. These events often involve speakers, talking points, and discussion among students about how we can get involved and make a difference as student advocates.
At the first National Advocacy Dinner at Shenandoah University, 85 students gathered at the Scholar Plaza - Loudoun campus in Northern Virginia. Over dinner, sponsored by the Blue Ridge District VPTA and Northern District VPTA, students engaged in an interactive talk with Tom Bohanon, PT, DPT, the Virginia Physical Therapy Association Legislative Committee Chair. With a brief introduction and Q&A format, Tom informed students about federal, state, and community-level advocacy, including our profession's accomplishments and upcoming goals. Some take-aways from students include learning about "... the importance of our voice with regard to interacting with legislators" and "various ways to advocate for our profession." Tom emphasized the value of getting involved and doing our part by serving as advocates.
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