Department of Occupational Therapy Education

B.S. Occupational Therapy, University of Kansas
M.P.H. 2002; Departments of Preventive Medicine and Public Health, University of Kansas
Ph.D. Candidate, Department of Public Administration, University of Kansas

Research Interests:
Research interests are developing through exploration of the intersection between occupational therapy, public health and public administration. Current interests are in the area of the impact of policy and decision making on occupational performance and life satisfaction and in the area of organizational change/development, specifically the effect of organizational administration vs professional leadership in successful transition and the impact of electronic communication on professional relationships. Presently, I continue as Co-PI and Faculty Advisor for the Community Health Project, a 14 year community based and interdisciplinary experience designed to enhance the education experience of health professional students by immersing them in a public health or social service setting.

O.T. Practice:
After 8 years working in mental health and two years in public schools, I continue to have a special place in my heart for troubled adolescents as well as adults with severe and persistent mental illness. My interest in public health stems from understanding occupation as central to health and wellness and recognizing the confines and supports due to systems and policy. We are missing public health opportunities every day! In addition to professional practice, I am committed to professional leadership as indicated by continuous involvement with my state and/or national association, most recently serving AOTA as the Speaker of the Representative Assembly (2004-07).