Research Fund Named in Honor of Dr. Roy Aldridge
JONESBORO – As a tribute to beloved physical therapy professor Dr. Roy Aldridge, a fund to support ongoing research into one of his professional passions has been named in his honor at Arkansas State University.
Irene Martz of Jonesboro, who is retired from a longtime career in the Division of Academic Affairs and Research, previously had made a significant gift to support Aldridge's research through the Arkansas State University Foundation Inc.
At her request, the fund has been named the Roy Aldridge Hippotherapy Research Fund to recognize Aldridge's work with patients. He shares that work with students in physical therapy and other programs in the College of Nursing and Health Professions. Martz stated she started the fund because of a presentation Aldridge made to a board of which she was a member. She was so impressed with his work that she provided funding immediately to enable continued research in this area.
Hippotherapy treatment involves patients working with horses and their movement as a way to connect and receive emotional assistance in addition to physical treatment. The horse provides a base of support that aids in achieving control, balance, building endurance and other movement responses.
Physical therapy students, with other students and faculty, have opportunities to interact in sessions with patients who are participants in research initiatives. Hippotherapy sessions are held at the Equine Center on campus. More about the program is available in an online news release and video.
Individuals who share Martz's desire to support Aldridge's commitment to hippotherapy research may donate to the Roy Aldridge Hippotherapy Research Fund by going online to AState.edu/donate or mailing a check to ASU Foundation Inc., P.O. Box 1990, State University AR 72467.
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