(Pronouns: she/her)
What year did you start the program?
Fall 2020
What are your prior degrees and at which institutions?
BS, Therapeutic Recreation, University of Connecticut 1998 MS, Occupational Therapy, Tufts University, 2001
What was your favorite course in the program?
OH 886: Teaching & Learning in the Health Professions
What was your Innovation Project title?
Let’s Get Down to Data: Systematic Progress Monitoring in School-Based Practice
Tell us about your Innovation Project.
Evidence-based instruction and progress monitoring has been associated with higher quality outcomes, yet the literature suggests only a small portion of school-based occupational therapy practitioners implement it within their daily practice. Even for those who have access to current research and work within a clinical environment with administrative support, occupational therapists often lack the time, skills, and strategies to collect data efficiently and effectively in daily practice to prove the efficacy of their interventions. Without a means to systematically incorporate progress monitoring in daily practice occupational therapy practitioners risk using interventions that are unnecessary, are contraindicated, or lack sufficient evidence. My Innovation Project was the development of a multi-module continuing education course, which includes an innovative mentorship model, to support school-based occupational therapists in utilizing systematic progress monitoring strategies.
What do you think is special about the Post-Professional OTD program here at the MGH Institute?
I was immediately able to implement assignments from the coursework into my professional practice. The first semester, as part of 881 Analyzing Influences in Healthcare, I developed a protocol for use by OT’s in my district for remote or virtual testing. I was invited to be part of the district team that presented not only to other OT’s in district but to the special educators, speech and language pathologists, school psychologists, etc. Also at the end of the first semester, for my final project for the Justice, Equity and Diversion and Inclusion course, I completed a proposal to present at the 2021 Able Assembly entitled Engaging Teens in Conversations of Race and Disability Through Theatre: Developing an Action Plan for Your High School Drama Club or Local Youth Theater Company. The proposal was accepted and I presented virtually at the conference in early April 2021. There have been many other opportunities to submit and present along the way. Finally, the coursework provided me with the education and support I have needed to accept academic appointments at two local universities where I have had to opportunity to teach courses as an adjunct lecturer to entry-level students in the Boston area. This program has made my dreams come true and supported me every step of the way.
Why did you choose to come to this program?
Although I was interested in pursuing a doctorate, I wanted a program that would give me more than simply the letters after my name. After speaking with Sarah McKinnon, who’s positive energy was contagious, when she explained what the program would be like, the interdisciplinary approach and the courses offered, I knew (or hoped) it would be a great fit. In addition to being excited about the courses, I was looking for a program that was designed for the working professional and an online experience.
What are your goals for the future after you graduate?
After I graduate I hope to pursue a full time academic appointment and after 20 years of clinical practice, transition to academia where I hope to contribute to the continued training of future generations of Occupational Therapists as well contribute to the scholarship of our profession.