April 16, 2015

45 years ago Margo Orlin, PhD, an associate professor in the Department of Physical Therapy and Rehabilitation Sciences, began her quest to help children and learn about the human body. Today, her hard work and dedication is recognized by being named a Catherine Worthington Fellow by the American Physical Therapy Association.

"At this point in my career, it's kind of like the hat on top of my head," says Orlin, who was surprised and humbled by the great honor. "It's rewarding to be recognized by your peers but also kind of mind boggling. You go about your business and do what you think is right and valuable then suddenly somebody says that's really valuable on another level,"which Orlin believes to be the greatest achievement of all.

Rather than applying for the fellowship, Orlin was nominated by her colleagues and peers in the pediatric division of the APTA. She plans to attend the awards ceremony in June to accept her lifelong membership but doesn't anticipate her day-to-day changing much as a result of the award.

Orlin currently serves as President of the Board of Directors for the United Cerebral Palsy Association of Philadelphia & Vicinity, a position aligned with her overarching research and professional interests. Her commitment to community service, professionalism and the advancement of physical therapy made her the ideal recipient for this honor, but Orlin hopes her award impacts those she teaches most.

"I think it's a great thing for students to see that their professors are being recognized because they continue to work hard not only to achieve but to contribute to our profession," says Orlin. She hopes to act as a role model for her students and remind them that learning never ends.

"This is a lifelong profession, and when you sign on the dotted line you agree to be a lifelong learner and someone who will always aspire to do better," believes Orlin. "It's not just for the profession but the people we work with. They expect that and they deserve it."