Karlye Eastman of Woodville, N.Y. Receives Clarkson University Physical Therapy Scholarship in Memory of Melissa Walsh

2015 Jul 14

Clarkson University's 2015 Melissa A. Walsh '03 '05 Memorial Endowed Scholarship has been awarded to second-year doctor of physical therapy student Karlye Eastman of Woodville, 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.

Eastman received her bachelor of science degree with distinction in innovation and entrepreneurship from Clarkson University in 2013.

In applying for the scholarship, she wrote, "My passion for physical therapy has allowed me to not only set higher goals for myself but also for my future patients."

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 the health professions, 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.