Emerging Scholars Program

Empowering the Next Generation of Dermatology Leaders

The SDPA Emerging DermPAs™ Scholars Program is a transformative initiative designed to inspire and support early-career DermPAs™ as they grow into leaders in the field. Since its launch, the program has empowered over 100 scholars to deepen their dermatology knowledge, expand their professional networks, and take meaningful steps forward in their careers.

Grow with us. Lead with us. The future of dermatology begins here.

Application for the 2026 Summer Conference class opening soon!

A Proven Path to Success

Through mentorship, funding, and focused education, the Emerging DermPAs™ Scholars Program offers early-career DermPAs™ the opportunity to gain valuable skills and connections that help shape a successful future in dermatology. From pre-conference experiences to advanced clinical sessions and exclusive networking events, Scholars walk away with lasting professional tools and relationships.

Core Elements of the Program

Pre-Conference Initiative

  • Participate in an exclusive event prior to the main SDPA conference, including an engaging workshop and special networking opportunities.

Advanced Education

  • Gain cutting-edge knowledge in dermatology through a specialized session on psoriasis.

Professional Development

  • Pair with SDPA leaders as mentors who will help shape the future of your DermPA™ career.

Networking Opportunities

  • Connect with industry leaders, mentors, and peers to build lasting professional relationships. 

Unlock Your Scholar Experience

SDPA will select up to forty (40) Emerging DermPA™ Scholars to attend the pre-conference Emerging DermPA™ Scholars Program at the 2026 SDPA Summer Conference.

Program Includes:

  • Four (4) night accommodation at the conference hotel
  • Emerging DermPA™ Scholars Pre-Conference Workshop
  • Special Emerging DermPA™ Scholars Reception
  • SDPA Leadership on-site mentor
  • Invitations to all receptions, including:
    • Arrival Reception
    • Welcome Reception
    • Diplomate & VIP Reception

 

Become an Emerging DermPAs™ Scholar

The Emerging DermPA™ Scholars Program is designed for early-career DermPAs™ who are in the first 5 years of their career and are passionate about advancing their professional journey through education, mentorship, and meaningful connections.

Eligibility Requirements:

To be considered for the SDPA Emerging DermPA™ Scholars Program, applicants must:

  • Be an SDPA Fellow or Associate member in good standing
  • Be currently practicing within their first five (5) years as a DermPA™
  • Be available to attend the SDPA Summer Conference in Denver, Colorado, from Wednesday, June 10 – Sunday, June 14, 2026
  • Arrive by 12:30 PM on Wednesday, June 10, 2026, to attend the Luncheon & Mentor Meet-up
  • Pay a $199.00 registration fee to SDPA to cover the remaining program expenses

Please Note: Previous Emerging DermPA™ Scholars are not eligible to apply.

 

Onsite Requirements for Emerging DermPA™ Scholars:

Selected scholars must agree to:

  • Arrive in time to attend the Luncheon & Mentor Meet-up and Scholars Workshop
  • Attend all conference sessions Wednesday through Sunday, including evening receptions (Scholars will be recognized from the Main Stage during the conference)
  • Actively participate in all scheduled activities held in the Scholars Lounge
  • Complete the post-program evaluation survey
  • Share highlights of their scholarship experience on personal social media channels before/during/after the conference 

 

Timeline:

March 2: Applications open
March 23: Applications close
April 15: Scholar recipients notified

 

With Gratitude to Our Partner

We’re grateful to Johnson & Johnson for their continued partnership in making this program possible. With their support, we’re cultivating the next generation of dermatology leaders.

The most impactful aspects were the meaningful connections I built, the knowledge I gained from experts, and the renewed passion I feel to contribute to this incredible profession. 

The Emerging Scholars Program gave me evidence-based insights I’m actively applying in practice, especially in managing complex dermatologic conditions.

– Emerging Scholar, Summer Conference 2025