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Congratulations to Brittany Samulski, PT, DPT, PhD candidate, for winning the APTA Virginia Chapter Emerging Leader Award for 2020! Winning the state chapter award places her as our chapter’s nominee at the national level! Dr. Samulski graduated from Old Dominion University’s Program in Physical Therapy in 2011 and has been a member of the APTA since enrolling in PT school in 2008. Dr. Samulski serves on the Tidewater District leadership team, and is a member of the APTA Virginia Research Committee. She has been active in our chapter at both district and state levels since 2017. Her contribution at the state level has been through reviewing abstracts submitted by students and clinicians wishing to present their research at Annual Conferences/Fall Summits. At the district level, she serves on the Tidewater leadership team and supports programming by suggesting speakers, arranging locations and parking for meetings, and contributing to ideas surrounding membership engagement and interests. Dr. Samulski shows her dedication to the advancement of physical therapy through her recent appointment as an assistant professor in Old Dominion University’s Program in Physical Therapy and her involvement in the chapter. Her future potential for continued contributions to the Virginia Chapter is outstanding due to her continuing research interests and skills, and involvement in her district and state chapters of the APTA. Thank you for all of your contributions, congratulations, and best of luck at the national level!
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Congratulations to Jeff Thikling, PTA, for winning the APTA Virginia Chapter PTA Award for 2020! Mr. Thikling was recognized for his willingness to step into the role of PTA caucus representative upon the retirement of the previous rep after 20-plus years of service. Mr. Thikling mitigated the void in our organization and has become a valuable member of the APTA Virginia Chapter leadership team. Mr. Thikling is a member of the Valley District of the APTA Virginia Chapter. Thank you and congratulations!