From the Classroom to Communities in Need

Offered by the New York City Department of Education (DOE), the scholarship provides financial assistance to students in their third, fourth, or graduate years of occupational therapy or PT programs. In exchange for full tuition coverage for each year of the award, recipients commit to working for two years in high-need areas across NYC’s boroughs, delivering critical, school-based therapy services to students who need them most.

“This scholarship is highly competitive, and we’re so proud of Jason and Aliyah for being selected. Both are outstanding, caring, hardworking students, and they will help make a difference in the lives of NYC public school students in need of PT services. It’s a real advantage to be able to start your career without the burden of huge student loan debt, thanks to this incredible scholarship,” said Dr. Jill Horbacewicz, Chair of the School of Health Sciences PT department.

For Jason Vega, a Staten Island, NY, resident and part of the class of ‘26, physical therapy is more than a profession; it’s rooted in lived experience. Growing up with a sister who has cerebral palsy, Vega witnessed firsthand the transformative impact PT can have on a person’s daily life.

“Physical therapy is paramount at every stage of life, from pediatrics to geriatrics,” Vega said. “It addresses such a wide range of needs—orthopedic, neurological, cardiopulmonary, pelvic health—and it’s constantly evolving through research and education. I love discovering new ways I can contribute to the field.”

That early exposure inspired him to apply for the scholarship, viewing it as an opportunity to give back in a meaningful way. “After seeing the impact PTs can have on patients and families, I knew I wanted to provide that same level of care,” he said.

Currently completing a clinical rotation with the DOE, Vega splits his time between a middle and an elementary school, gaining experience across varied age groups and educational environments. Under the supervision of a clinical instructor, he leads therapy sessions throughout the school day, working directly in classroom settings to support students’ physical participation alongside their peers.

“I also attend IEP meetings with teachers, occupational therapists, and parents,” Vega explained. “Having a seat at the table allows me to advocate for students with disabilities and contribute to creating the most supportive environment possible.”

Vega credits Touro faculty for playing a pivotal role in his development. He highlights professors Dr. Leah Verebes and Dr. Yocheved Bensinger-Brody for their invaluable mentorship that shaped both his clinical skills and professional mindset. “Professor Bensinger-Brody’s pediatrics course and research opportunities gave me hands-on experience that will remain at the forefront of my mind as I advance my career,” he said. “Her commitment to lifelong learning continues to motivate me.”

Looking ahead, Vega hopes to fulfill his dream of working as a pediatric PT in a DOE school while also expanding his expertise to support young athletes striving to excel in their sports.

A Full-Circle Journey Back to the DOE

Aliyah Goodwin, a Bronx resident and part of the class of ‘26, has firsthand experience within the DOE school system. Before entering Touro’s DPT program, Goodwin worked for nearly seven years as a teacher’s assistant with the DOE, where she observed the profound impact of PT, occupational therapy, and speech services on students’ success.

“As PTs, we’re able to spend a significant amount of time with our patients,” Goodwin said. “Building relationships over weeks or months allows us to see real change in their daily lives, and that’s incredibly rewarding.”

Encouraged by what she witnessed in schools, Goodwin decided to apply for the prestigious scholarship. The rigorous application process included acceptance into a participating graduate program, extensive documentation, including letters of recommendation, and a multi-stage interview process conducted by licensed PTs.

“When I received the acceptance news at the start of the fall semester, I couldn’t have been more excited,” Goodwin said. “It felt like everything had come full circle.”

Now completing a clinical rotation under the supervision of a licensed PT, Goodwin’s days are filled with preparing materials, leading exercises aligned with students’ functional goals, documenting progress, and ensuring sessions support each child’s individualized education plan.

After graduation, Goodwin will work in a high-need DOE area, which may include schools throughout the Bronx, Brooklyn, Queens, or District 75, the city’s network of specialized schools for students with disabilities. While placements are based on need, Goodwin is eager to learn from students of all backgrounds.

“I could honestly name every professor I’ve had—they’ve all made an impact,” she said. Faculty members, including Dr. Yocheved Bensinger-Brody, Dr. Leah Verebes, and Dr. Ted Marks, helped her build confidence and feel supported throughout the program. “There’s always someone at Touro who believes in you and wants to see you succeed.” Goodwin’s dream career is to work as a school-based physical therapist while also providing essential homecare services for elderly patients.

Through the Jose P. OT/PT Scholarship Program, Vega and Goodwin are easing the financial burden of completing their graduate education, while also committing themselves to helping communities where their skills can have the greatest impact. They both look forward to making a lasting difference in the lives of as many NYC students as possible.