Lexi Schons, PT, DPT, knew she wanted to become a physical therapist after visiting Glencoe Regional Health (GRH) for back pain in high school. After seeking care from our physical therapists, her interest in healthcare was immediately sparked. She went on to participate in observation hours with our physical therapy department, allowing her to see firsthand the impact our team makes each day in providing rehabilitation services care to our community.
“After attending physical therapy and shadowing at GRH, I knew that I wanted to have a career that involved helping people, connecting with others, and building relationships in a one-to-one patient setting,” said Lexi. “That’s exactly what I get to do as a physical therapist now, and I love coming to work each day.”
A Glencoe native, Lexi focused on her science classes at Glencoe-Silver Lake High School, particularly enjoying her human anatomy courses. When the time came to apply for college, Lexi decided to attend Gustavus Adolphus College to pursue her career in healthcare.
The GRH Foundation played a pivotal role in Lexi’s journey, awarding her a Sanken-Hatz Scholarship to support her educational endeavors.
The Sanken-Hatz Scholarship program is just one way the GRH Foundation helps build healthier tomorrows for our community. Area students pursuing careers in healthcare are eligible to apply for the annual scholarship, relieving the financial burden for students desiring to help and heal through their careers.
“Due to the generosity of the Foundation’s support, I was able to continue my education and attend graduate school. Their support gave me financial comfort in being able to afford not only four years of school, but also graduate school,” said Lexi. “After obtaining my Doctor of Physical Therapy, I knew I wanted to give back to my community and the organization that supported me.”
Returning to her roots, Lexi joined GRH as a physical therapist, drawn by the positive reputation of GRH’s rehabilitation department and her desire to be close to her family and community. As a GRH employee, Lexi has witnessed the transformative power of healthcare, cherishing the supportive environment that allowed her to grow both professionally and personally.
“I’ve been working at GRH for six years, and have an amazing team of coworkers who have helped me succeed, and have built a supportive, collaborative, and enjoyable work environment,” said Lexi. “Our shared dedication to the health of our community is inspiring and fulfilling.”
Lexi’s role at GRH has evolved, allowing her to work with a wide range of patients from across various departments, from outpatient and inpatient care to surgery and obstetrics. Hear from Rachael, a patient whose health was greatly impacted by Lexi.
Supported by the GRH Foundation through her academic journey, Lexi’s commitment to her community as a physical therapist exemplifies the lasting influence of educational assistance.
“Lexi’s journey from a scholarship recipient to a dedicated healthcare professional embodies the Foundation’s mission to empower local students and cultivate a thriving healthcare community. Her story not only honors the vision the Foundation has set for our Sanken-Hatz Scholarship program, but it also honors the intentions of the people whose financial gifts make these scholarships possible,” said Larry Anderson, GRH Foundation Board President. “As Lexi continues to serve her patients and mentor future generations of physical therapists, she leaves a mark on Glencoe, inspiring those around her to make a difference in the lives of others.”
Do you want to be a partner for people like Lexi? You can support the GRH Foundation and the Sanken-Hatz Scholarship program by making a gift to the Foundation. Learn more about how you can make an impact here.
How the Sanken-Hatz Scholarship Program Impacts Our Community:
1. Removing Financial Barriers:
The Sanken-Hatz Scholarships are helping aspiring healthcare professionals by providing financial support. This aid removes obstacles that could otherwise prevent them from pursuing their education in healthcare. By doing so, the Foundation is contributing to the development of a skilled healthcare workforce.
2. Filling the Healthcare Workforce Gap:
In a time of increasing demand for healthcare professionals, these scholarships play a crucial role in addressing workforce shortages. Supporting students in their education ensures that the community has access to well-trained healthcare workers who can meet our evolving needs.
3. Community Impact:
The scholarships extend their impact beyond the individual recipients. As graduates enter the workforce, they often engage in community health initiatives and outreach efforts. This not only benefits the community directly, but also fosters a culture of giving back among healthcare professionals.
4. Improving the Standard of Care:
Education is key to excellence in healthcare. The Sanken-Hatz Scholarships contribute to improving the standard of care by ensuring that healthcare professionals receive top-notch education and training. This directly influences the quality of healthcare services provided within our community.
5. Building a Sustainable Healthcare Infrastructure:
The long-term impact of these scholarships goes beyond immediate benefits. By supporting the education of healthcare professionals, the Foundation is helping to build a sustainable healthcare infrastructure. This is crucial for ensuring that the community remains resilient in the face of healthcare challenges.
