EMPOWERING THE NEXT GENERATION OF DERMATOLOGY LEADERS 

The SDPA Emerging DermPAs^TM Scholars Program is a transformative initiative designed to inspire and support early-career DermPAs^TM as they grow into leaders in the field. Since its launch, the program has empowered over 180 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 Fall Conference is open now!

Through mentorship, funding, and focused education, the Emerging DermPAs^TM Scholars Program offers early-career DermPAs^TM 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^TM career. 
• Networking Opportunities
  Connect with industry leaders, mentors, and peers to build lasting professional relationships. 

The 2026 application will close August 26.

Unlock Your Scholar Experience 

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

Program Includes:

🌴 Four (4) night accommodation at the conference hotel 

🌴 Emerging DermPA^TM Scholars Pre-Conference Workshop 

🌴 Special Emerging DermPA^TM 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^TM Scholars Program is designed for early-career DermPAs^TM 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^TM 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^TM 
• Be available to attend the SDPA Fall Conference in Hollywood, Florida, from Wednesday, November 11 – Sunday, November 15, 2026 
• Arrive by 12:30 PM on Wednesday, November 11, 2026, to attend the Luncheon & Mentor Meet-up and depart at the conclusion of the conference on Sunday, November 15, 2026 at 12:00 PM. 
• Pay a $199.00 registration fee to SDPA to cover the remaining program expenses 

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

Onsite Requirements for Emerging DermPA^TM Scholars:
Selected scholars agree to: 

• Arrive in time to attend the Luncheon & Mentor Meet-up and Scholars Workshop. 
• Attend all conference sessions Wednesday through Sunday, including evening symposia and 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. 
• If comfortable, share highlights of their scholarship experience on personal social media channels before/during/after the conference. 

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.