Clarkson University Physical Therapy Student Alayna Taraska Awarded Melissa A. Walsh '03 '05 Memorial Endowed Scholarship
Potsdam, NY (12/16/2024) — Clarkson University's Melissa A. Walsh '03 '05 Memorial Endowed Scholarship has been awarded to Doctor of Physical Therapy student Alayna Taraska '26 of Massena, NY. The scholarship was established in memory of Walsh by her family and friends to assist a Clarkson University physical therapy student with qualities and goals similar to Walshes.
Taraska was chosen due to her passion for physical therapy, commitment to excellence and desire to be a life-long learner.
"I am deeply honored to have been chosen for this scholarship. I sincerely appreciate the opportunity and the support it provides," Taraska said. "This award significantly reduces financial stress, allowing me to focus fully on my education and academic goals."
"Alayna is a wonderful student and exemplifies all the core values a student physical therapist should," said Dr. Jaime Bicknell, Director of Clinical Education and Clinical Assistant Professor of Physical Therapy at Clarkson. "She is compassionate, dedicated, hard-working and collaborative. She goes above and beyond in and out of the classroom. She represents the things most important to Melissa, her family and the physical therapy profession, and we are proud to announce her as this year's recipient."
"The Walsh Scholarship was established to celebrate Melissa's life and continue support of the physical therapy profession," reads the award description. "Melissa was a standout student, respected amongst professors and peers. She went on to become a licensed physical therapist and worked in outpatient orthopedics. Melissa put her heart into all that she did, whether in relationships, education, or employment. Melissa was a role model in every sense of the word, in her personal life, her professional commitment, and her belief in caring for others. Melissa's life and accomplishments are an excellent example of what a Clarkson University student should strive to achieve."
Clarkson University is a proven leader in technological education, research, innovation and sustainable economic development. With its main campus in Potsdam, N.Y., and additional graduate program and research facilities in the Capital Region and Hudson Valley, Clarkson faculty have a direct impact on more than 7,800 students annually through nationally recognized undergraduate and graduate STEM designated degrees in engineering, business, science and health professions; executive education, industry-relevant credentials and K-12 STEM programs. Alumni earn salaries among the top 2% in the nation: one in five already leads in the c-suite. To learn more go to www.clarkson.edu.
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