Oct 27, 2025
VCU Physical Therapy Student Honored with National Rizing Tide Scholarship
For first-year Physical Therapy student Zion Segears, earning the Rizing Tide Scholarship is more than just financial support, it’s a stepping stone toward his dream of owning his own physical therapy practice and helping others find healing, just as he once did.
A Northern Virginia native and proud VCU alumnus, Segears’ path to physical therapy began with a personal struggle. At just seventeen years old, Segears, a high school basketball player had a recurring hip injury, which eventually led him to a torn labrum and a major surgery. His inspiration for a future career in physical therapy sparked after years of recovery and physical therapy.
“Being in and out of PT for three years showed me how impactful this field is,” said Segears. “It motivated me to help others get back to doing what they love.”
The Rizing Tide Scholarship was founded by Heidi Jennenga, a physical therapist who saw the need to elevate all underserved voices. The Rizing Tide Foundation provides professional connections around the world, as well as scholarships, and mentorships. Segears now joins a national network of scholars and professionals advancing diversity in physical therapy.
“It’s rewarding to know that out of such a competitive pool, I was chosen,” he said. “This scholarship lessens the financial burden, reinforces my faith, and helps me move closer to owning my own practice sooner than I thought possible.”
Next year Segears will travel to Arizona where he will meet the rest of his cohort in person. He believes it will be a great opportunity to connect and find future health leaders to collaborate with, and learn from peers all across the United States
"This scholarship is not just a reflection of Zion's academic potential, it also reflects the importance of expanding opportunities for all to pursue a career in physical therapy," said Ben Darter, P.T., Ph.D., chair of the Department of Physical Therapy. "Congratulations to Zion for this achievement, and for his desire to have a positive impact on people's lives through the care he will provide."
As an undergraduate at VCU, Segears built strong foundations across campus life. From being the vice president of Developing Men of Color (DMC), which helps undergraduate men of color with resources needed to thrive at VCU through mentorships and professional development opportunities. DMC now has over 1,000 members since Segears graduated this past year.
Segears also prides himself on his involvement helping to establish a semi-annual inclusive kickall game for individuals with disabilities in collaboration with Jacob's Chance Non-profit. The non-profit organization helps youth and adults with disabilities through inclusive programs to promote positivity and community in Richmond, Virginia.
He credits his family and where he grew up for reminding him to stay grounded. Segears is also especially grateful to his mentor Dr. Carlton Goode, the founder of DMC, for his guidance and encouraging him to lift others up along the way. Dr. Carlton Goode’s mentorship through DMC has played a key role in shaping him into who he is today by pursuing opportunities and guiding him through his successes at VCU.
“Don’t get discouraged if there are obstacles,” Segears advises. “Whatever you’re called to do, you belong. Push yourself, seek help when you need it, and always look to lift someone else up.”
Outside the classroom, Segears keeps his love for basketball alive, and takes pride in his Puerto Rican and Black heritages.
His hope for the future, Segears wants to become a clinical instructor and own his own practice one day. He wishes to become a mentor himself, so he can offer the same encouragement and guidance he’s received.
“You never know whose life you might change through PT,” Segears said. “Give every class your best, and don’t lose sight of your end goal. If you encounter struggles or adversity in your road to success, don’t change your goal to meet your plan, change your plan to meet your goal.”