SWAGÊÓƵ

  • Associate Professor of Occupational Therapy
Saint Gianna School of Health Sciences

SWAGÊÓƵ Me

I began working as an occupational therapist in 2003 at a rural hospital setting serving inpatient, outpatient, transitional care, intensive care, home health and mental health patients. After a few years, I transitioned to an outpatient clinic focusing on treating pediatrics, adults with musculoskeletal conditions, and skilled nursing home residents. I became interested in academia as I enjoyed helping students develop clinical skills during their fieldworks. In 2011, I joined the occupational therapy department at the University of Mary as a faculty member and began pursuing my doctorate in teaching and learning. I completed my doctorate in 2015.

Why I’m At Mary

I completed my undergraduate and master’s degree at the University of Mary and I felt like this place helped prepare me to succeed in my profession. Therefore, when given the opportunity to work here, I wanted to contribute to students’ successes and ultimately help prepare new generations of caring and compassionate occupational therapists.

Expertise

As Assistant Professor of Occupational Therapy, I teach a variety of courses that cover the lifespan and especially enjoy teaching research, theory, and courses pertaining to fieldwork education. I also coordinate an international service-learning fieldwork experience in Peru where students provide occupational therapy services in a school setting for children with disabilities.

Education

PhD: University of North Dakota, 2015
MS (Occupational Therapy): University of Mary, 2003
BA (University Studies): University of Mary, 2002