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 more than 80 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.

 

Exciting news — applications are now open for the 2025 Fall Conference cohort! Be sure to apply by Monday, September 8, 2025.

Apply Now

 

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 award up to forty (40) Emerging DermPA™ Scholars grants valued at $2,500 to attend the pre-conference Emerging DermPA™ Scholars Program.

The expenses covered by these grants include:

  • 4-night hotel stay at the conference hotel, JW Marriott San Antonio Hill Country Resort & Spa.
  • Emerging DermPAs™ Scholars Pre-Conference Workshop.
  • Special Emerging DermPAs™ 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 DermPAs™ 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 as an SDPA Emerging DermPAs™ Scholar, applicants must:

  • Be an SDPA Fellow or Associate member in good standing.
  • Be currently working within their first five (5) years as a DermPAs™.
  • Be able to attend the SDPA Fall Conference in San Antonio, Texas from Wednesday, November 5, 2025, through Sunday, November 9, 2025, arriving by 1:00 PM on Wednesday, November 5, 2025.
  • Pay a $199.00 registration fee to SDPA to cover the remaining Emerging DermPAs™ Scholar Program expenses.

Note: Previous scholars are not eligible.

 

Onsite Requirements for Emerging DermPAs™ Scholars – Fall Conference

Applicants selected for the Emerging DermPAs™ Scholars program must agree to the following onsite requirements:

  • Arrive at the conference hotel in time to attend the Luncheon & Mentor Meet-up and the Scholars Workshop.
  • Attend all conference sessions from Wednesday through Sunday, including evening receptions. (SDPA Emerging Scholars will be recognized from the Main Stage during the conference.)
  • Participate fully in all scheduled activities held in the Scholars Lounge.
  • Complete the post-program evaluation survey.

  • Share highlights of their scholarship experience on their personal social media accounts during the conference.

     

Application:

Applications are now open for the 2025 Fall Conference cohort! Submit yours by Monday, September 8, 2025.

Apply Now

 

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