NewsLink Winter 2017

NEWS LINK DEPARTMENT OF

OCCUPATIONAL
THERAPY

SPRING 2017
VOLUME 6, ISSUE 2

INSIDE THIS A MAGICAL CELEBRATION OF
ISSUE PITT OT PAST, PRESENT, & FUTURE

2 Faculty Highlights Red coral is said to have magical abilities to masters degree in 2000. In 2014, the CScD
defend against plague and pestilence. Much like program was unveiled, and in June 2017,
2 From the Chair... an occupational therapist, red coral combats Pitt OT will welcome its first cohort of OTD
disease and restores function. As our students.
2 35th Anniversary profession celebrates the centennial Under the skilled guidance and strong
Colors of Pitt OT anniversary, Pitt OT is celebrating our 35th leadership of Dr. Joan Rogers, Pitt OT rose to
year, also known as our coral anniversary. a national ranking of #6 in 2012. Pitt OT is now
3 Student Successes Situated between the silver anniversary and the ranked #4 in the nation, under the exceptional
golden anniversary, the coral anniversary direction of Dr. Elizabeth Skidmore.
3 Reflections from provides an opportunity to reflect on past In addition to a well-recognized reputation of
Award Recipients achievements, present endeavors, and future excellence in education, Pitt OT also boasts a
ambitions and aspirations. number of innovative research labs. Pitt OT
3 Alumni Spotlight The program in occupational therapy faculty and staff feature pioneers contributing
(bachelor’s degree) was established in to the distinct value of occupational therapy
UPCOMING the School of Health Related Professions with and its collaborative and primary care.
EVENTS Dr. Caroline Brayley serving as our founding Our past and present have paved a road to the
Director. Under Dr. Brayley’s outstanding ambitious plans generated for the future of Pitt
Feb. 23 Pitt OT leadership, the program in occupational OT. As the Department prepares for the
Continuing Ed therapy was elevated to Department status newest transition, Pitt OT is excited to expand
Event later that same year. our reputation of excellence to new frontiers
In 1999 Pitt OT began participating in the PhD enriching the journey for students, alumni,
program, and then introduced an entry level friends of Pitt OT, clients, and the profession.

A SCHOLAR FOR CHILDREN

Feb. 28 Pitt Day of In September 2013, Pitt OT welcomed Roxanna Bendixen,
Giving PhD, OTR/L as an expert in pediatric occupational
therapy. Dr. Bendixen has devoted her research to
READ MORE studying rare diseases with significant and progressive
neuromuscular issues, including Duchenne muscular
April 8 SHRS Spring dystrophy, congenital muscular dystrophy, Barth
Open House syndrome, and Pompe disease. Through her research, Dr.
Bendixen has discovered that many of the children with
Sep. 14 35th Anniversary these diseases experience limitations in critical
Celebration occupations. Dr. Bendixen has also received funding to
increase diversity and engage families in research. With a
focus on increasing knowledge for families, clinicians, and
researchers, she has moved forward with more
community-based outcomes through the use of portable
fitness tracking devices with children with a rare disease in
their natural environment. Her team is exploring patterns
of activity, including daily activity and sleep, and how these
patterns change over time with the progression of the
disease. To read more about Dr. Bendixen’s research:
https://www.shrs.pitt.edu/ot/research/laboratories

VOLUME 6, ISSUE 2 PAGE 2

FACULTY FROM THE CHAIR...

ACHIEVEMENTS The Department of Occupational Therapy is February 28, 2017 marks the first annual
fortunate to receive support for our students University of Pittsburgh Day of Giving, a
PUBLICATIONS from many generous donors. Alumni, friends, university-wide effort focused on supporting
staff, current faculty, and former faculty have current and future students at the University.
Driscoll, M, & Baker, N.A. (2016, provided critical monetary donations to the Should you decide to participate in this
Oct). Breaking the cycle: OT's role Department General Fund, Joan C. Rogers event, consider designating your
in chronic pain management. OT Endowed Student Resource Fund, and our donation to the Department of
Practice, 21(19), 8-14. most recently established fund, the Caroline Occupational Therapy, in one of our
Robinson Brayley Endowed Student designated funds:
Bendixen, R., Houtrow, A. (In Enrichment Fund. Collectively, these funds help
Press) Parental reflections on the support student tuition, student travel to  The Department General Fund;
diagnostic process of Duchenne conferences, honoraria for invited speakers,  The Joan C. Rogers Endowed Student
muscular dystrophy: A qualitative and other critical educational needs. Many
study. Journal of Pediatric Healthcare. students have benefitted from these funds. As Resource Fund; or
Jaclyn Mazza (MOT Class of 2016) recently  The Caroline Robinson Brayley
Sethi, A., Sterqiou, N, Patterson, shared, “The recognition is truly humbling, and
T., Patten, C., & Richards, L. (In the financial assistance has allowed me to Endowed Student Enrichment Fund.
Press). Speed and rhythm affect dedicate my energy towards academic pursuits
temporal structure of variability in and clinical training during fieldwork
reaching post stroke: a pilot study. education.” Most recently, in December 2016,
Journal of Motor Behavior. we received a generous outpouring of
donations, including a matching donation from
PRESENTATIONS one of our alumni, allowing us to increase
support to our students. On behalf of our
Baker, N.A. (2016, November). students, staff, and faculty, I would like to
The association between arthritis thank all donors for your commitment to
and carpal tunnel syndrome: Na- current and future Pitt occupational therapy
tional Health Interview Survey, students and their education.
2010; American College of Rheu-
matology/Association of Rheuma- THE COLORS OF 35 YEARS OF
tology Health Professionals 2016 PITT OT: CORAL & EMERALD
Annual Scientific Meeting, Wash-
ington, DC. Traditionally, Pitt alumni proudly display the donating our time and expertise to CarFit and
blue and gold that represent the university. In Rebuilding Together programs, to volunteering
Rodakowski J., Skidmore E.R., September, Pitt OT will also reflect on the with at-risk youth, Pitt OT has sought to serve
Reynolds, C. F. (2016, November). coral and emerald of our 35th anniversary. the needs of our community throughout the
Reducing depressive symptoms and The red coloring of the coral symbolizes the continuum of life.
slowing decline for older adults heart of Pitt OT. As a program, Pitt OT has The deep green of the emerald represents the
with Mild Cognitive Impairment. contributed to the larger community, sharing generous financial support Pitt OT alumni,
Gerontological Society of Ameri- the distinct value of occupational therapy with faculty, and friends contribute to our
can Annual Scientific Meeting, New traditionally underserved populations. From scholarships. To commemorate our 35th
Orleans, LA. anniversary, Pitt OT is introducing the
“Emerald Challenge.” We encourage you to
Minnier, T., Skidmore, E.R., & donate a sum containing the digits in your
McGowan, M. (2016, November). graduation year (e.g. 2005 = $20.05). The
Perspectives on the IMPACT Act. winning alumni group will be announced at our
Invited Panel Discussion at the celebration in September.
Insider’s Update: Navigating Post-
Acute Reforms Across the Care UPSOTA CLOTHING SALE
Continuum, UPMC Aging Institute,
Pittsburgh, PA.

Love Pitt OT? Ready to share your Show your Pitt OT pride no matter
Pitt Pride with all you see? where you are!
Purchase Pitt OT Alumni gear: To order, please fill out the
UPSOTA Clothing Sale Form
 Athletic full-zip jacket and mail form along with payment to
 Casual quarter-zip pullover University of Pittsburgh, Dept. of
 Short and long sleeve tees Occupational Therapy, 5012 Forbes
 Pitt OT water bottle Tower, Pittsburgh, PA 15260.

VOLUME 6, ISSUE 2 PAGE 3

STUDENTS IN AND THE AWARD GOES TO…
REFLECTIONS OF AWARD RECIPIENTS
THE NEWS
Each year the Pitt OT faculty must undertake From left to right: Leah McCarthy, Elise Pure,
Emily Kringle received the 1st the challenging process of identifying the Dr. Elizabeth Skidmore, and Stephanie Rouch
Place Award in the American recipients of the Department awards from
Congress of Rehabilitation numerous outstanding candidates. The 2016 “The award, for me, is not the end but just the
Medicine Stroke ISIG Poster award recipients are: beginning of a lifelong career promoting the distinct
Competition for her poster titled value of occupational therapy.”
"Predictors of Engagement in  Jessica Gass - Caroline Robinson Brayley
Inpatient Rehabilitation Following Student Enrichment Award ─ Leah McCarthy, MOT ‘17
Stroke." She presented her work
during the Poster Grand Round  Leah McCarthy - Award of Professional
session at the conference. Excellence

Elise E. Pure was awarded the  Elise Pure - Award of Scholarly
2016 Department of Occupational Excellence
Therapy Scholarly Excellence
Award for developing excellence in  Stephanie Rouch - Joan C. Rogers
treating musculoskeletal disorders. Occupational Therapy Award

Leah A. McCarthy was awarded These distinguished award recipients have
the 2016 Department of many words of thanks to express to the
Occupational Therapy Professional Pitt OT community.
Excellence Award for promoting
the distinct value of occupational “Receiving the Award of Scholarly Excellence has
therapy. been an encouragement to me to remain a lifelong
learner and contributor to the field of occupational
Lauren Lukacs and Allison Juris therapy.”
were selected for the Jewish
Healthcare Foundation’s ─ Elise Pure, MOT ‘17
Fellowship: Death and Dying: The
Elephant in the Room. Dr. Angela Caldwell, PhD, OTR/L, CLT and “The Department of Occupational Therapy at the
Jessica Gass University of Pittsburgh provides students with the
Brianna Garcia represented the practical and theoretical foundation to excel. I have
Beta Tau chapter (Pitt’s chapter) of “I am deeply appreciative to be chosen as a been challenged to expand my perspective of how
PTE at the PTE Annual Business recipient of the Caroline Robinson Brayley Student engagement in meaningful occupations promotes
Meeting on November 18, 2016. Enrichment Award. I look forward to using this healing, how to measure it in order to contribute to
generous gift to enrich my academic studies and science, and how to apply this knowledge within
strengthen my connections within the field of the bounds of the policies and procedures of our
occupational therapy.” current healthcare and education system.”

─ Jessica Gass, MOT ‘18 ─ Stephanie Rouch, MOT ‘17

CScD student, Nicole Habovick, ALUMNI SPOTLIGHT:
along with 1st and 2nd year MOT LINDSAY WAGNER, MOT, OTR/L
students, Alyssa Campisi, Kasey
Gehlhaus, Annah Greaber, Lindsay Thelin Wagner, MOT, OTR/L Lindsay is completing a yoga teacher
Yocelin Hernandez Rojero, (MOT ‘05) is an occupational therapist and certification program in Integrative Yoga
Taylor Ledgister, Hanna Department Chair at the League School of Therapy. Yoga has become a valuable
Morris, Alexandra Ruth, Greater Boston (League) in Walpole, MA. She treatment modality that that she uses regularly
Megan Shaffer, and Maria has worked full time for League for 9 years, with students.
Violante, volunteered at the servicing students on the autism spectrum ages Lindsay lives in Smithfield, RI with her husband,
Health Care and Human Services 5-21 years. Lindsay works with children Eric, and two beautiful children, Garen (4) and
Village at the Urban League’s individually, as well as in small groups, focusing Kaya (2).
Thanksgiving Distribution event on on ADLs, emotional regulation, vocational Lindsay stated
Saturday, November 19, 2016. The skills, community safety skills, and leisure skills. the most valuable
students demonstrated the distinct In addition to direct interventions, Lindsay skills learned
value of occupational therapy while preforms consultation with day school and while at Pitt OT
distributing packets of information residential staff, developing accommodations include
regarding occupational therapy and sensory diets. collaboration and
services and resources. Committed to the role of contributor, Lindsay developing skills
provides staff trainings throughout the school for leading group
year. She consults with community activities, which
organizations and families regarding sensory are a part of her
processing, specifically development of sensory- job on a daily
based interventions and accommodations. basis.

VOLUME 6, ISSUE 2 PAGE 4

THANK YOU

The University of Pittsburgh Department of Occupational Therapy would
like to thank all those who have generously donated to our programs in 2016.

Nancy A. Baker Kelly A. McCarron
Joyce R. Broadwick Eric P. & Cari McNelis Miller
Joseph F. & Donna L. Brosky James F. & Carleen S. Neher
Mark & Denise Chisholm
James C. & Charlotte Lynne Clements Anne Pascasio
Vicki L. Pritchard
Laura K. Ebbert Juleen L. Rodakowski
Stephanie R. Emert
Shameem Gangjee Joan C. Rogers
Kimberly A. Grego Rosemary M. Scully
Maria Monaco Shoemaker
Robin L. Gries Elizabeth R. Skidmore
Benjamin J. Gross Robert & Amy Plenderleith Stewart

Hanna Gruen Lauren Terhorst
Ideishi Taylor Consulting Gary & Wendy L. Toplak
James & Pamela Ellen Toto
Christine Jackson John Edward & Chantelle Bowers Voyack
Sudong Kang
Laura F. Waterstram
David A. & Georgann Lombardi

VOLUME 6, ISSUE 2 PAGE 5

C O N T A C T U S INSPIRING THE NEXT GENERATION

University of Pittsburgh A legacy is often defined as something handed From left to right: Sarah Walker, Christine
Department of down. Legacies are motivated and defined by Sroka, Emily Williams, Shelby Scott, and
various facets of one’s life, sharing influencing Caitlin Smith (MOT ‘18 students)
Occupational Therapy denominators such as family, personal values,
5012 Forbes Tower making a difference in the world, and being The following funds support and inspire the
Pittsburgh, PA 15260 passionate about your work. Although legacies next generation of occupational therapists:
Phone: 412-383-6620 are often handed down after the death of the
donor, many individuals are finding ways to
E-mail: [email protected] contribute to their legacies while they are still
able to share in the experience.
Visit us online at: Our generous donors have created an ongoing
www.shrs.pitt.edu/OT/ living legacy at Pitt OT. Through various
scholarships, programs, and department
CONNECT WITH donations, individuals are able to see the
US impact of their charitable gifts as new graduates
of the program assume leadership roles within
Pitt OT the profession and aspire to leave a lasting
impression on the practice of occupational
@OTPitt therapy.

OTPitt Department of Occupational Therapy
Fund: Supports student academic needs,
including posters, travel, supplies, etc.

Caroline Robinson Brayley Student
Enrichment Fund in Occupational
Therapy: Supports educational experiences
inside and outside the classroom that will
enrich the student experience and promote
success in the program and in the profession.

From left to right: Anna Carlson, Morgan Joan Rogers, PhD, OTR/L, Occupational
Bilbow, Allison Juris, Caitlin O’Donnell, Therapy Student Resource Fund:
and Morgan Leeds (MOT ‘18 students) Recognizes deserving students in the
Department of Occupational Therapy. Awards
provide funding for books, fees, student travel
and other educational expenses.

SHARE YOUR OUR MISSION AND VISION
STORY
 Educate entry-level professional students to practice evidenced-based occupational therapy in
Alumni, we would like to a variety of healthcare, community, and educational settings; manage occupational therapy
highlight YOU in a future issue service delivery; and contribute to the profession through service and participation in
research;
of the Pitt OT NewsLink.
Please send us your stories!  Provide customized courses of study for post-professional students (masters and doctoral),
designed to meet their individual learning needs and to enhance their ability to assume
Please contact us with changes leadership roles in practice, education, research, program development, and program
to your mailing address or evaluation;
e-mail address.
 Provide continuing education for practicing therapists to facilitate their continued
competence;

 Plan and engage in research to advance occupational therapy (and rehabilitation) practice and
education; and

 Serve the University and public and professional communities through participation in
University and community service and professional associations.

The University of Pittsburgh Department of Occupational Therapy will be nationally and
internationally recognized as a leader in occupational therapy education, a pioneer in occupational
therapy research, and a partner in regional practice and development.