2026 Dan R. Barrow Memorial Scholarship
Background–The American Massage Therapy Association New Mexico Chapter (AMTA-NM) is accepting scholarship applications for the Dan R. Barrow Memorial scholarship from February 1 to March 13, 2026. This scholarship honors longtime AMTA-NM member and past president, Dan R. Barrow, for his service to AMTA as a volunteer at both the chapter and national levels. As a renowned neuromuscular therapist and instructor and member of the NM Massage Therapy Licensing Board, Dan elevated and enhanced our profession with his heart and his touch.
How much is the scholarship worth? The amount of the scholarship varies each year based on the chapter’s budget. For 2026, the award is $1000.00 in honor of the 10th anniversary of the scholarship.
Who is eligible to apply? Applicants must be an AMTA professional member in good standing and a licensed massage therapist in the state of New Mexico. Current members of the scholarship committee and chapter board of directors are not eligible. Student members are not able to apply.
What can the award be utilized for? Scholarship funds must be used for registration, lodging and/or airfare for continuing education (CE) classes at the following events:
- AMTA National Convention
- AMTA State Convention (NM or other)
How do I apply? Complete the form on the last page of the scholarship document and submit along with your essay to the scholarship chair. Applications shall be submitted to Amy Zampella, AMTA-NM Scholarship Chair at amyzampella@icloud.com.
What is the deadline for the application? The deadline for applications is March 13, 2026.
What is the Criteria for Awarding the Scholarship? The winner will be selected by the chapter scholarship committee. Each candidate shall submit a completed application and an essay that 1) details where they work and if they have any speciality techniques or work with special populations, 2) what continuing education they have taken that has enhanced their work, 3) outlines their willingness to take their practice to the next level, 4) explains how they would utilize the scholarship monies to further their education and provide elevated care to their clients. Volunteer and community service history is encouraged and will be taken into consideration as Dan Barrow was a huge proponent of these values. The essay should be presented in a professional manner, and should take no more than 1-2 hours to complete.
When will the winner be announced? The 2026 scholarship winner will be announced at the chapter annual meeting during the April 16, 2026 AMTA-NM spring education conference.
How long do I have to use the scholarship award? Scholarship funds must be used within a 2-year time period after winner has been announced. The award can be used for multiple educational events, not to exceed the maximum dollar amount.
How do I redeem the scholarship award? Contact Amy Zampella, scholarship committee chair to discuss. You will need to select one or more educational events within a 2 year period. You may attend the AMTA National Convention or an AMTA chapter educational conference (State of NM or other), The registration fee, airfare, and lodging are eligible for reimbursement.
Can I reapply for the scholarship every year? Scholarship winners may not re-apply for this scholarship for a 5-year period.
Why should I apply for this scholarship? You could win $1000.00 to be used for your continuing education requirements that need to be met for NM State licensure every 2 years. Instead of taking more online courses, you could attend one or more in-person educational events. With the award, it’s possible attend an AMTA National Convention that you might not otherwise be able to fit in your budget. It’s a chance to travel to upcoming National Conventions in Denver, CO (2026) or Savannah, GA (2027), and broaden your horizons with thousands of other massage therapists around the country.
Who do I contact if I have further questions? Call 505-255-2203 and ask for Amy Zampella, AMTA-NM scholarship committee chair
2025 Scholarship Recipient
Megan Yankee of Taos was last year’s recipient of the Dan Barrow Memorial Scholarship.
“Both main populations I work with in northern NM, veterans and cancer survivors, are better served by my upcoming training in Manual Lymphatic Drainage (May 2026 – ABQ). Without the scholarship, I’d need to save up longer, which would delay my ability to provide this service to my clients.”
Congratulations, Megan, and good luck with your upcoming course!