When people think of the Philadelphia Eagles, the first thing that comes to mind might be their impressive lineup of players. Or maybe the striking color of the Kelly green. Perhaps they think of a Philadelphia conversation starter with a casual “Go Birds!” while walking down the street. Seldom would someone associate the Super Bowl-winning football team with a $20,000 scholarship, but Mekhi Vance and Erin Fitzpatrick do.
Both students are a part of the Doctor of Physical Therapy program at Temple. The scholarship honors the late Otho Davis, the longtime head athletic trainer for the Eagles. Since 1999, his foundation has worked to support students in various fields related to sports.
Both awardees attended the award ceremony on November 4th, which featured none other than some of the Philadelphia Eagles’ top players. For Philadelphia native and longtime Eagles fan Fitzpatrick, the moment felt surreal.
“I wish I could come up with better words other than ‘it’s crazy,’” said Fitzpatrick. “All through the fall, I have 17 weeks where the Eagles are the only thing that matters, then I sat in a room with all of those people and felt like I was the only thing that mattered.”
Fitzpatrick first found out about the scholarship at an Eagles game, so she is no stranger to the team. While Maryland native Vance might not be dedicated to the Eagles, but rather a Commanders fan, he still says the moment was extremely valuable. Not only for him emotionally, but professionally as well.
“It was great to talk to them and pick their brain about things and wish them luck on the season,” said Vance. “These people could be my patients one day, whether I’m working for the Eagles or for the Commanders.”
Both awardees come from an athletic background. Fitzpatrick was a former cheerleader for Temple, and Vance played baseball. Both of them mentioned their athletic history as the reason they wanted to pursue physical therapy.
But the road to meeting the Eagles wasn’t easy. The application process was extensive and included an application, a cover letter, a letter of recommendation, and an explanation of the financial need. The selection process is competitive, and Fitzpatrick was grateful to stand out among the rest.
“I was so moved by the fact that people who are so important and famous saw something in me,” said Fitzpatrick. “I can’t believe they wanted me to be a spotlight in an event that was as huge as this one.”
Both Vance and Fitzpatrick emphasized the amount of sacrifice that it took to get them to this point. Holding the check made it seem that it was all worth it.
“All of the hard work in high school, college, or late-night studying. Pulling all nighters to even get into PT school,” said Vance. “Also doing well in physical therapy school, it’s not easy to do. It was definitely a great experience to be rewarded for that.”
For Fitzpatrick, the message is similar.
“I think I would have said it was worthless regardless, but this makes it a little extra sweet,” said Fitzpatrick. “I have the confidence moving forward to say that I have been doing something right, and if I stay on this path, I will continue to be provided these opportunities.”
$20,000 is a hefty sum that can change a student’s life. Both Vance and Fitzpatrick say that they can breathe a little easier while finishing their intensive programs at Temple. The money provides a valuable cushion for them to push themselves more and continue to excel in their fields.