THE 2026 delaware-MARQUETTE CHALLENGE
Since 1989, Physical Therapy and Physical Therapist Assistant students have helped advance the profession by contributing over
$5,000,000
to the Foundation for Physical Therapy Research
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The Marquette Challenge

Students Supporting the Future of Physical Therapy

The Marquette Challenge brings together DPT and PTA students from across the country with a common goal: helping shape the future of the physical therapy profession through fundraising, outreach, and collaboration.

The Foundation for Physical Therapy Research

As the research funding organization for the American Physical Therapy Association (APTA), the Foundation for Physical Therapy Research strengthens the evidence base for the physical therapy profession by funding academic doctoral scholarships, postdoctoral fellowships, and research grants.

The treatments you’ll learn in school, use as a clinician—and the ones that don’t exist yet—are built on research and evidence.

Why Students Make a Difference

As a student, you’re not just learning the profession—you’re helping define it.

By participating in the Marquette Challenge, you’re:

  • Supporting research that will impact your future patients
  • Helping early-career researchers get their start
  • Strengthening the role of evidence-based practice in PT
  • Building leadership and teamwork skills along the way

This is your chance to go beyond the classroom and be part of something bigger.

Be Part of the Movement

The Marquette Challenge isn’t just about fundraising—it’s about students coming together to invest in the future of the profession. Every event, every donation, and every effort contributes to research that drives real change.

Get involved. Give back. Help shape what’s next for physical therapy.

5 Steps to Get Started 

  • Identify a lead Challenge Coordinator and team to start planning events. Your team can help connect classmates. Further, students can learn more about the profession and build their professional networks.

  • Brainstorm ideas! The Challenge is successful thanks to the creativity of students. Looking for inspiration? Visit our student toolkit or blog. 

  • Plan your events for the year. The most successful programs host events throughout the year or plan a “signature” event that brings families and students together.

  • Plan a launch event with students and special guests. Since 1979, the Foundation for Physical Therapy Research has funded 640+ researchers. Invite someone from your school or network who is a current or past funding recipient.

  • Have fun! In these challenging times your Challenge events — even those held virtually — can bring people together around a good cause.

A donation of any amount can put your school on "the List" of Challenge schools. Support research today!

Give Today

Title Sponsor Delaware-Marquette Challenge