
Emerging Scholars Program

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- Emerging Scholars Program
- Leadership Academy
- Career Pathways
- Salary Survey
- Hire a DermPA™
Announcing the Third Cohort of the SDPA Emerging DermPAs™ Scholars Program
Empowering the Next Generation of Dermatology Leaders
Empowering the Next Generation of Dermatology Leaders
We are thrilled to announce the launch of the third cohort of the SDPA Emerging DermPAs™ Scholars Program, a transformative initiative designed to inspire and support talented early-career DermPAs™. Since its inception, this program has empowered 80 scholars to expand their knowledge, grow their professional network, and accelerate their career development.
A Proven Path to Success
Through mentorship, funding, and specialized training, this program equips scholars with the tools they need to excel in dermatology. From gaining cutting-edge knowledge to forming lifelong professional connections, the SDPA Emerging DermPAs™ Scholars Program is committed to shaping the future of DermPAs™.
Special Thanks to Our Partner
This program is made possible through the generous support of our partner, Johnson & Johnson. We are confident that their continued collaboration will help us cultivate the next generation of leaders in dermatology.
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 in 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.
Eligibility Requirements
To apply for the third cohort, you must be:
- An SDPA Fellow or Associate member in good standing.
- Within your first five (5) years as a practicing DermPA™.
- Able to attend and actively participate in the full SDPA Summer Conference in Washington, DC, from Wednesday, June 25, 2025, to Sunday, June 29, 2025.
- Prepared to manage the $199.00 discounted conference registration rate.
- Not a previous SDPA Emerging DermPA™ Scholar.
Selected Emerging Scholars Will Receive:
- Four (4) nights of hotel accommodations at the conference hotel, Marriott Marquis, from June 25 - June 29, 2025.
- Discounted conference registration rate of $199.00.
- An invitation to the pre-conference lunch with mentors and an educational session hosted by Johnson & Johnson, exploring the latest trends and management strategies for psoriasis.
- A unique professional development experience with distinguished lecturers from Johnson & Johnson.
- On-site mentorship opportunities with SDPA Leadership.
- A special networking reception for past and present Scholars.
- Access to all conference sessions, including breakout sessions and recordings (earn your CME credits!).
- All meals and networking events within the conference program, including the Diplomate & VIP Reception.
- Recognition at the conference from the Main Stage.
- Acknowledgement in digital conference materials (conference app, on-site signage, slides).
- An SDPA Emerging DermPA™ Scholars Certificate.
Application Timeline
- Monday, February 10: Application process opens
- Sunday, March 9: Application closes
- Monday, April 14: Scholar recipients notified
- Wednesday, June 25: Scholars arrive on-site in Washington, DC
Apply Today and Transform Your Career
We encourage all eligible members to apply for the third cohort of the SDPA Emerging DermPAs™ Scholars Program. Take full advantage of this exceptional opportunity to enhance your skills, expand your network, and propel your career forward.
Don’t miss your chance to be part of this transformative experience!

"So excited about all the networking, the educational opportunities, my goodness, and meeting all these people too. The excitement that everybody has, it’s contagious.”
– Noelle Wands, MPAS, PA-C, SDPA Diplomate Fellow, SDPA Emerging DermPA™ Scholar, San Diego 2024 Summer Conference Cohort
- Professional Development
- Emerging Scholars Program
- Leadership Academy
- Career Pathways
- Salary Survey
- Hire a DermPA™