Dr. Paula Papanek's mother, Marie Sekeres Papanek, passed away January 30th, 2007. Marie's heart and soul were filled with love. She was an avid reader of science, led a lifetime dedicated to learning and she loved the physical therapy profession, often being the cheerleader for other patients in the clinic to succeed. She was a volunteer patient in Dr. Simoneau's orthopedic labs!
In her mother's memory, Dr. Papanek started an award to encourage students to pursue geriatric physical therapy practice and research that benefits the aging population.
The purpose of the Fund is to provide scholarship support to graduate students at the university. The award is to be presented in two equal monetary awards to graduate students in the Department of Physical Therapy. The awards will be given to the two most qualified students from existing graduate programs: Master of Athletic Training, Master of Exercise and Rehabilitation Science, or Master of Sports and Exercise Analytics. Recipients will be in their last year of the graduate program and have demonstrated financial need. Special consideration will be given to students who have participated in research in the areas of geriatrics or women’s health. In the event that there are not two eligible recipients in a given year, the entire award amount can be given to one student. Awards will be made by the Graduate School after consultation with the existing graduate programs.
If there is not a scholarship recipient who qualifies under the restrictions specified in this agreement, the Graduate School may make an award at its discretion, keeping in mind the spirit of the Donor’s original intent that this scholarship be awarded to students interested in research in the areas of geriatrics or women’s health.
To make a contribution to the Marie Sekeres Papanek fund, contact Kristin Freiberg at (414) 288-3324 or kristin.freiberg@marquette.edu.
