Clare Sheldon of Norwich, N.Y., Receives Clarkson University Physical Therapy Scholarship in Memory of Melissa Walsh

2013 Sep 5

Clarkson University's 2013 Melissa A. Walsh '03 '05 Memorial Endowed Scholarship has been awarded to second-year doctor of physical therapy student Clare M. Sheldon of Norwich, N.Y.

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 Walsh's.

Walsh was a Massena High School and Clarkson University graduate, who lost her life in a 2007 motor vehicle accident. At Clarkson, she earned a bachelor of science degree in psychology in 2003 and a master of physical therapy degree in 2005.

Sheldon received her bachelor of science degree in psychology from Clarkson in 2012.

In applying for the scholarship, she wrote, "As a physical therapy student I am eager and motivated to continue to work upon my skills and knowledge base to provide the best quality care for my patients. My personal long-term commitment towards continual learning and staying current in the healthcare environment is what also draws me to the profession...

"The path I chose has challenged me and placed me in situations that I would have never imaged, but ultimately has given me more strength as an individual. The reward, however, is realizing that I one day will be able to make the life of another person a little easier. From receiving a smile in return to just getting a sense of clarity from the patient gives me an immense amount of purpose and direction in my future career. Physical therapy will mean more to me than just a profession. It already has given me the determination and focus to be the best person and clinician I can be to help others."

A description of the scholarship reads, in part:

"The Walsh Scholarship was established to celebrate Melissa's life and continue support of the physical therapy profession. 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 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 launches leaders into the global economy. One in five alumni already leads as a CEO, VP or equivalent senior executive of a company. Located just outside the Adirondack Park in Potsdam, N.Y., Clarkson is a nationally recognized research university for undergraduates with select graduate programs in signature areas of academic excellence directed toward the world's pressing issues. Through 50 rigorous programs of study in engineering, business, arts, sciences and health sciences, the entire learning-living community spans boundaries across disciplines, nations and cultures to build powers of observation, challenge the status quo, and connect discovery and engineering innovation with enterprise.