Faculty
Read more about our doctoral faculty and the scholarship they have produced since 2010.
- Dana Howell, Ph.D., OTD, OTR/L, FAOTA
- Shirley O’Brien, Ph.D., OTR/L, FAOTA
- Julie Baltisberger, Ph.D., OTR/L
- Renee Causey-Upton, OTD, OTR/L
- Leslie Hardman, OTD, OTR/L
- Cindy Hayden, D.H. Ed., OTR/L, CHT
- Susan Skees Hermes, OTD, OTR/L, BCP
- Casey Humphrey, OTD, MHA, OTR/L
- Allen Keener, OTD, MS, OTR/L, ATP
- Christine Privott, Ph.D., OTR/L
- Colleen Schneck, Sc.D., OTR/L, FAOTA
- Leah Simpkins, OTD, OTR/L, CPAM
- Camille Skubik-Peplaski, Ph.D., OTR/L, BCP, FAOTA
- Geela Spira, PhD, OTR/L
- MaryEllen Thompson, Ph.D., OTR/L
Dana Howell, Ph.D., OTD, OTR/L, FAOTA
Department Chair and Foundation Professor
Education:
B.S. Colorado State University
OTD Creighton University
Ph.D. University of Idaho
Email: Dana.Howell@eku.edu
Phone: 859-622-6256
Research/Academic Interests:
- Interprofessional education
- Qualitative research
- Quality of life for people with physical disabilities
Publications:
Dr. Howell’s work can be found in several journals including:
- Toonstra, J., Howell, D.M., English, R. A., Lattermann, C., Mattacola, C. G. (2019). Rehabilitation providers' perspective on recovery following autologous chondrocyte implantation: A qualitative study.Journal of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation Studies, 1(1).
- Page, C., Howell, D.M., & Douglas, N. (2019). Positive culture change in long-term care: A procedure to enhance speech language pathologist-certified nursing assistant collaboration. Clinical Focus. https://doi.org/10.1044/2019_PERS-SIG2-2019-0009
- Johnson, A., & Howell, D.M. (2019). Mobility bridges a gap in care: Findings from a mobility quality improvement project in acute care. Journal of Clinical Nursing, 28, 4044-4052.https://doi.org/10.1111/jocn.14986
- Causey-Upton, R., Howell, D.M., Kitzman, P.H., Custer, M., & Dressler, V. (2019). Factors influencing discharge readiness after total knee replacement. Orthopaedic Nursing, 38 (1), 6-14. https://doi.org/10.1097/NOR.0000000000000513
- Smith Forbes, E., Howell, D.M., Willoughby, J., Pitts, G., & Uhl, T. (2018). A retrospective cohort study of QuickDASH scores for three hand therapy acute upper limb conditions. Military Medicine, 183 (suppl. 1), 522-529. https://doi.org/10.1093/milmed/usx199
Associations/Affiliations/Work History:
- Editor, Journal of Occupational Therapy Education (JOTE)
- Contributing Editor, Potential Patterns, Journal of Allied Health
- Clinical experience as an occupational therapist in adult rehabilitation in a variety of settings including inpatient and outpatient rehabilitation, skilled nursing facilities, and home health
- Kentucky Occupational Therapy Association
- World Federation of Occupational Therapists
- American Occupational Therapy Association
Awards/Accolades:
- University Fellows Award, 2016
- Jean Steffan Smith Faculty Award, 2011, 2013, 2015
- Department o fOccupational Therapy Excellence in Scholarship Award,2014
- Dr. Deborah R.Labovitz Scholarship Award from the Kentucky Occupational TherapyFoundation, 2008
- Journal of Allied Health’s J. Warren Perry Distinguished AuthorAward (co-recipient) for the article, “Using the SF-36 to Determine the Perceived Health Related Quality of Life in Persons Over 65 in Rural Idaho,”2007
Shirley O’Brien, Ph.D., OTR/L, FAOTA
Foundation Professor and PPOTD Program Coordinator
Education:
B.S. Temple University
M.S. Rush University
Ph.D. University of Kentucky, Educational Policy Studies and Evaluation
Email: Shirley.O’Brien@eku.edu
Phone: 859-622-6329
Research/Academic Interests:
- Autism Spectrum Disorder
- School-based practice and pediatrics
- Advocacy for children and families
- The biological foundations of occupation
- Interprofessional education
Publications:
Dr. O’Brien’s work can be found in several journals including:
- Sweet, C., O’Brien, S., Blythe, H., & Carpenter, R. (2019). A new goal for professional development: A case study of how a professional learning community produced transformative faculty learning. Learning Communities Journal, 11 (1).
- Eicher, E., Skubik-Peplaski, C.,O’Brien, S. & Fleischer, A. (2018) Exploring parents’ experiences of raising a child with sensorimotor impairments and expectations for leisure participation, The Open Journal of Occupational Therapy. 6(4), Article 6. https://doi.org/10.15453/2168-6408.1364
- O’Brien, S. P.& Hight, J. (2016). Leadership development through online e-portfolio creation. American Occupational Therapy Association SIS Quarterly Practice Connections, 4(1), 29-31.
- O’Brien, S.P., Marken, D., Petrey, K.B. (2016). Student perceptions of scholarly writing. The Open Journal of Occupational Therapy, 4(3), Article 8. http://dx.doi.org/10.15453/2168-6408.1253
- Myers, C.T. & O’Brien, S.P (2015). Teaching interprofessional collaboration in the health sciences: Using online education across institutions. Occupational Therapy in Healthcare, 29(2), 178-185.
- Vaught, E. L., Wittman, P., & O'Brien, S. (2013). Occupational behaviors and quality of life: A comparison study of individuals who self-identify as adult children of alcoholics and non-adult children of alcoholics. International Journal of Psychosocial Rehabilitation, 18(1), 43-51.
- Bibb, S. I., O’Brien, S. P., & Custer, M. G. (2012). LoAD books: Using e-technology to facilitate children’s reading skills. American Occupational Therapy Association Technology Special Interest Section Quarterly, 22(1), 1-4.
She has also co-authored books and book chapters including:
- Schneck, C.M. & O’Brien, S. P. (2019). Assessment and Treatment of Educational Performance. In J.’O’Brien & H. Kulhanek (Eds.), Case-Smith's Occupational Therapy for Children and Adolescents, 8th ed. (Chapter 15). Elsevier
- O'Brien, S. P.(Author) (2017). Faculty Perspectives of Teaching Online. In S. Thompson & P. Parry (Eds.), Coping with Gender Inequities (pp. 43-56). Baltimore, MD: Rowman & Littlefield Publishing Group.
- Shordike, A., O’Brien, S., & Marshall, A. (2011). From altruism to participations: Bridging academia and borderlands. In Kroenberg, F. Occupational therapy without borders II. 329-338.
Associations/Affiliations/Work History:
- Continuous service in the American Occupational Therapy Association, Kentucky Occupational Therapy Association, state associations, and other professional groups
- Reviewer, The Open Journal of Occupational Therapy (OJOT)
- Reviewer, Journal of Occupational Therapy Education (JOTE)
- Department Committees: Curriculum Committee and OTD Subcommittee
- University Committees: Chair of Faculty Senate (2016/2017), Academic Budget Committee Subcommittee, E-Campus Quality Workgroup, Faculty Innovation Workgroup, Joint University Budget Review Committee, President’s Research and Scholarship Fund
Awards/Accolades:
- 2019 Ronald J. Cutter Professional Service Award presented by the Arc of Kentucky
- University Foundation Professor, 2016-2018
- Phi Kappa Phi, faculty honoree and member, 2017-present
- Faculty Innovator, Eastern Kentucky University – College of Health Science 2015
- American Occupational Therapy Foundation, Leaders & Legacy Society (Inaugural Group), 2015.
- Jean Steffan Smith Faculty Award, 1996, 2007, 2008, 2010
- Distinguished Education Leader, EKU Student Government Association, May 2007.
- Service Award, American Occupation Therapy Association, 2001.
- Honorary Member, Golden Key National Honor Society, 1999.
- Lindy Boggs Award for Political Activity (Activism in the legislative and policy making environment), American Occupational Therapy Association, 1997.
- Distinguished Service Award, Kentucky Occupational Therapy Association, 1994-95.
- Fellow of the American Occupational Therapy Association (Mentoring in education and pediatric practice), 1992.
Colleen Schneck, Sc.D., OTR/L, FAOTA
Department of Occupational Therapy and
Occupational Science Chair and Professor
Education:
B.S. EasternMichigan University
M.S. Boston University
Sc.D. Boston University, Therapeutic Studies
Email: Colleen.Schneck@eku.edu
Phone: 859-622-3300
Research/Academic Interests:
- Sensory processing problems in children and adolescents
- Topics of interest to pediatric occupational therapists and school system personnel
Publications:
Dr. Schneck’s work can be found in several journals including:
- Leigers, K., Myers, C., Schneck, C. (2016). “Social Participation in Schools: A Survey of Occupational Therapy Practitioners”. American Journal of Occupational Therapy.
- Martin, S., Welborn-Mabrey, D., Kitzman, P., Effgen, S., Schneck, C. (2015). “Reliability of the Test of Pretend Play- A pilot study”. Journal of Disability and Rehabilitation.
- Schneck, C. M., Brandenburger-Shasby, S., Myers, C. T., Smith, M. A. (2012). The Handwriting Without Tears versus Teacher-Designed Handwriting Instruction in a first grade classroom. Journal of Occupational Therapy, Schools & Early Intervention,5(1), 31-42.
- Myers, C. T., Schneck, C. M., Effgen, S. K., McCormick, K. M., Shasby, S. B. (2011). Factors associated with therapists’ involvement in children’s transition to preschool. American Journal of Occupational Therapy, 65, 76-85.
Associations/Affiliations/Work History:
- Clinical experience in pediatric occupational therapy for over 20 years in a variety of settings including school systems
- Kentucky Occupational Therapy Foundation Board, Member (at large)
- Related Services Advisory Committee; Kentucky Department of Education, Member (at large)
- Research Committee; Cardinal Hill Rehabilitation Center; Lexington, Kentucky, Member (at large)
- American Occupational Therapy Association Annual Conference Proposals
- SIS Practice Conference Proposals
Awards/Accolades:
- Fellow of the American Occupational Therapy Association
Camille Skubik-Peplaski, Ph.D., OTR/L, BCP, FAOTA
Associate Professor
Education:
B.S. Eastern Michigan University
M.S. Wayne State University
Ph.D. University of Kentucky, Rehabilitation Sciences
Email: Camille.Skubik-Peplaski@eku.edu
Phone: 859-622-6325
Research/Academic Interests:
- Occupation-based practice
- Occupational therapy practice framework
- Client-centered practice
- The therapy environment
- Client-centered practice
Publications:
Dr. Skubik-Peplaski’s work can be found in several journals including:
- O'Brien, S. P. & Skubik-Peplaski, C. (2019). Metacognition: Using critical reading strategies to promote critical thinking and clinical reasoning. Innovations in Teaching and Learning Pedagogicon Proceedings. Stillwater, OK: New Forums Press.
- Eicher, E., Skubik-Peplaski, C., O’Brien, S. & Fleischer, A. (2018) Exploring parents’ experiences of raising a child with sensorimotor impairments and expectations for leisure participation, The Open Journal of Occupational Therapy. 6(4), Article 6. https://doi.org/10.15453/2168-6408.1364
- Skubik-Peplaski, C., Custer, M., Powell, E., Westgate, P. & Sawaki, L. (2017). Comparing occupation-based and repetitive task practice interventions for optimal stroke recovery, Physical and Occupational Therapy in Geriatrics.35(3-4), 156-168. DOI: 10.1080/02703181.2017.1342734 http://dx.doi.org/10.1080/02703181.2017.1342734
- Steber, A., Skubik-Peplaski, C., Custer, M. & Causey-Upton, R. (2017). The Impact of Caring for Persons with Stroke on the Leisure Occupations of Female Caregivers, Physical and Occupational Therapy in Geriatrics. 35(3-4), 169-181, DOI:10.1080/02703181.2017.1350778
- Winslow, M. P., Skubik-Peplaski, C., & Burkett, B. (2017). Transferring Information from Faculty Development to Classroom Practice: A Mixed-Method Study. Journal of Faculty Development, 31(1), 35-40.
Associations/Affiliations/Work History:
- 30+ years of experience as an occupational therapist in a variety of settings including school-based practice, pediatric rehabilitation, and adult rehabilitation
- Held positions as an occupational therapist, outpatient therapy coordinator and practice coordinator creating occupational therapy programs and sustaining competent practice with a workforce of 75 therapists at Cardinal Hill Rehabilitation Hospital
- Continuous service in the American Occupational Therapy Association, Kentucky Occupational Therapy Association, Kentucky Board of Occupational Therapy, and other professional groups
Awards/Accolades:
- Reappointed by Governor Brashear to the Kentucky Board of Occupational Therapy for a second term 2013- 2016
- Appointed by Governor Brashear to the Kentucky Board of Occupational Therapy 2010-2013
- 2015 AOTF Leaders and Legacy Society- Inaugural Member
- 2015 Best Poster UK PM &R Research Day
- 2014 Jean Stephan Smith Faculty Award by Eastern Kentucky University Occupational Therapy Students
- 2014 Best Poster UK PM &R Research Day
- 2011 Fellow of the American Occupational Therapy Association
- 2007 Awarded Distinguished Alumna of the Year by Eastern Michigan University
- 2004-2005 Awarded Distinguished Service Award by the Kentucky Occupational Therapy Association
- 1996-1997 Awarded Outstanding Occupational Therapist of the Year by the Kentucky Occupational Therapy Association
MaryEllen Thompson, Ph.D., OTR/L
Graduate Coordinator and Professor
Education:
B.A. University of Puget Sound
M.A. University of Southern California
Ph.D. Arizona State University, Educational Psychology/Lifespan Development
Email: MaryEllen.Thompson@eku.edu
Phone: 859-622-6347
Research/Academic Interests:
- Research: Morning routines of Adults with Chronic Disabilities; Use of photo techniques in qualitative research; Adults with diabetes; Adolescents with disabilities – Transition and Inclusion issues; Tourette Syndrome and related disorders
- Teaching: Foundations, Theory, Research, Pediatrics
Publications:
Dr. Thompson’s work can be found in several journals including:
- Thompson, M.E. (2014). Occupations, habits, and routines: Perspectives from persons with diabetes. Scandinavian Journal of Occupational Science, 21, 153-160.
- Strom, P, Thompson, M.E., & Strom, R. (Winter, 2013). Teamwork skills assessment for inclusion classrooms. Middle Grades Research Journal, 8(3), 83-98.
- Thompson, M.E., & Oekler, A. (2013). Use of participant-generated photographs versus time use diaries as a method of qualitative data collection. International Journal of Qualitative Methods, 12, 624-637.
- Thompson, M.E. (2013). Use of participant-generated photography in a research contribution course. The Open Journal of Occupational Therapy, 1(4), 1-13.
Associations/Affiliations/Work History:
- 20+ years of clinical work in occupational therapy in a variety of areas and settings including work primarily in pediatrics within the school system, home health, acute care, NICU, and outpatient care
- Certified in giving Sensory Integration and Praxis Tests
- Trained at the Ayres Clinic
- American Occupational Therapy Association
- Society for the Study of Occupation
- SSO: USA member of Conference committee
- Kentucky Diabetes Network
- Committee Chair, Admission, Progression and Retention Committee, Occupational Science and Occupational Therapy Department, Eastern Kentucky University
- Committee Chair, MS Sub Committee, Occupational Science and Occupational Therapy Department, Eastern Kentucky University
- Committee Member, ADA Committee, University wide, Eastern Kentucky University
- Committee Member, Curriculum Committee, Occupational Science and Occupational Therapy Department, Eastern Kentucky University
- Committee Member, Quality Enhancement of Graduate Programs
Awards/Accolades:
- University Funded Research Grant, 2012, American Occupational Therapy Foundation Research Grant, 1986, and California Foundation Occupational Therapy Research Grant, 1986
Renee Causey-Upton, OTD, OTR/L
Assistant Professor
Education:
B.A. Eastern Kentucky University
M.S. Eastern Kentucky University
OTD Chatham University
Ph.D. In progress, University of Kentucky, Rehabilitation Sciences
Email: Renee.Causey-Upton@eku.edu
Phone: 859-622-8297
Research/Academic Interests:
- Outcomes following total knee replacement
- Pulmonary rehabilitation
- Occupational therapy education and pedagogy
- Team-based learning
- Adult rehabilitation
Publications:
Dr. Causey-Upton’s work can be found in several journals including:
- Causey-Upton, R. (2015). A model for quality of life: Occupational justice and leisure continuity for nursing home residents. Physical and Occupational Therapy in Geriatrics, 33(3), 15-188.
- Causey, R. (2013). Breathing easier: Pulmonary rehabilitation in skilled nursing facilities. OT Practice, 18(21), 13-17.
- Causey, K. R. (2012). Pulmonary rehabilitation: Pathways to better breathing [Program manual]. Functional Pathways, Knoxville, Tennessee.
- Crum, K. R. (2011). Readiness for discharge: Occupation-based treatment in the orthopedic setting.OT Practice, 16(14), 14-18, 23.
Associations/Affiliations/Work History:
- Clinical experience as an occupational therapist and rehabilitation manager in acute care settings and skilled nursing facilities
- American Occupational Therapy Association
- Kentucky Occupational Therapy Association
- Associate Editor, editorial board member, and reviewer, Journal of Occupational Therapy Education (JOTE)
- Member of Curriculum Committee, Eastern Kentucky University
- Member of the OTD Sub-Committee, Eastern Kentucky University
- Member of the Academic Practice Committee, Eastern Kentucky University
- Member of Faculty Development Committee, Eastern Kentucky University
- Member of the Journal of Occupational Therapy Education (JOTE) Committee, Eastern Kentucky University
- Member of College of Health Sciences Alumni Affairs Committee, Eastern Kentucky University
- Advisor for junior and senior occupational science students
Awards/Accolades:
- Deep Physical Agent Modalities Certification through the Kentucky Board of Licensure for Occupational Therapy
- Marketing Strategy for Business Leaders Certificate through Cornell University
- Recognition as a Champion’s Club Member from the Alzheimer’s Association, 2014.
- Recipient of a Lilly Conference Scholarship award from Eastern Kentucky University to attend the Lilly International Conference on College Teaching, 2013.
- Recipient of the Madonna Marsden Writing Award from Eastern Kentucky University, 2003.
- Recipient of the Department of English and Theatre Writing Award, Eastern Kentucky University, 2003
Julie Baltisberger, Ph.D., OTR/L
Assistant Professor
Education:
B.A. University of California, Berkeley
M.S. Eastern Kentucky University
Ph.D. University of Kentucky, Rehabilitation Sciences
Email: Julie.Baltisberger@eku.edu
Phone: 859-622-6303
Research/Academic Interests:
- Cancer rehabilitation
- Mothering
- School-based practice
- Qualitative and mixed methods
Publications:
Dr. Baltisberger’s work can be found in several journals including:
- Baltisberger, J. A. (2015). “Bent but not broken”: A mixed methods study of mothering during chemotherapy for breast cancer. Dissertation for Doctor of Philosophy degree, Department of Rehabilitation Sciences, University of Kentucky.
- Hunter, E. G., Baltisberger, J. A. (2012). Functional outcomes by age for inpatient cancer rehabilitation: A retrospective chart review. Journal of Applied Gerontology, XX(X), 1-.
- Marken, D., Pierce, D, & Baltisberger, J. (2010). Grandmothers’ use of routines to manage custodial care of young children. Physical & Occupational Therapy in Geriatrics, 28(4), 360-375. doi:10.3109/02703181.2010.535119
- Schoenberg, N., Baltisberger, J., Bardach, S., & Dignan, M. (2010). Perspectives on pap test follow up care among rural Appalachian women. Women & Health, 50(6).
- Pierce, D., Atler, K., Baltisberger, J., Fehringer, E., Hunter, E., Malkawi, S., & Parr, T. (2010). Occupational science: A data-based American perspective. Journal of Occupational Science, 18(1).
Associations/Affiliations/Work History:
- Clinical experience in working with children with disabilities in early intervention and school systems
- American Occupational Therapy Association (AOTA)
- AMBUCS National and Bluegrass Chapters
- Kentucky Occupational Therapy Association (KOTA)
- Society for the Study of Occupation, USA (SSO-USA)
- World Federation of Occupational Therapy (WFOT)
Awards/Accolades:
- Golden Apple Award, Eastern Kentucky University Housing Department, 2010-2011
- Related Services Scholarship, Kentucky Dept. of Education, November, 1997
- Pi Theta Epsilon Occupational Therapy Honor Society, January, 1997
- Appalachian Traineeship Award for Occupational Therapy, December, 1996
Leslie Hardman, OTD, OTR/L
Assistant Professor
Email: Leslie.Hardman@eku.edu
Phone: 859-622-6323
Research/Academic Interests:
- Pediatrics
Associations/Affiliations/Work History:
- American Occupational Therapy Association
- World Federation of Occupational Therapy
- Kentucky Occupational Therapy Association
- Kentucky Division of Early Childhood
- Council for Exceptional Children
Cindy Hayden, D.H. Ed., OTR/L, CHT
Associate Professor
Education:
B.A. Eastern Kentucky University
M.S. University of Kentucky
DHEd. A.T. Still University, Health Education
Email: Cindy.Hayden@eku.edu
Phone: 859-622-6318
Research/Academic Interests:
- Hand Therapy Outcomes
- Chronic Pelvic Pain in Women
- Scholarship of Teaching and Learning
Publications:
Dr. Hayden’s work can be found in several journals including:
- Hayden, C.L., Gilbert, K.L., & Bryden, P.A. (2019). Factors influencing interstitial cystitis flares in women. Urologic Nursing, 39(3), 119-132. doi:10.7257/1053-816X.2019.39.3.119
- Hayden, C., Fleischer, A. & Renfro-Taylor, K. (2017). Interactive video quizzes to enhance student learning. The Journal of Faculty Development. 31(3), 53-57.
- Hayden, C. & Marken, D. (2015) Shared Grades as Academic Practice. The American Occupational Therapy Association Education Special Interest Section Newsletter.
- Hayden, C. (2013). Online learning of safe patient transfers in occupational therapy education. The Open Journal of Occupational Therapy. Retrieved from http://scholarworks.wmich.edu/cgi/login.cgi?logout=1&context=ojot
- Hayden, C. (2013). Instructional design for learning: a psychomotor clinical skill online. International Journal of Instructional Technology and Distance Learning. Retrieved from http://itdl.org/Journal/Jan_13/Jan_13.pdf
Associations/Affiliations/Work History:
- Certified Hand Therapist
- Associate Editor, Journal of Occupational Therapy Education (JOTE)
- American Occupational Therapy Association
- Kentucky Occupational Therapy Association, Education Chair (2013-2015)
- Tennessee Occupational Therapy Association
- Presented at State and National Conferences
- Pi Theta Epsilon faculty advisor (2012-2018)
- Editorial Board, AOTA OT Online Test Prep (2012-Present)
- Editorial Board, AOTA OTA Online Test Prep (2012-Present)
- University Committee, CHS representative on QEP Implementation, Critical Reading Committee
- Curriculum Committee, Chair (2019-2021), OTD representative (2016-2018)
- OS/OT Department Faculty Development Committee, Chair
Awards/Accolades:
- Nominated for the Excellence in Teaching OT department award, Spring 2014
- Nominated for the Excellence in Service OT department award, Spring 2014
- Nominated for Instructional Design Award, 2018
Susan Skees Hermes, OTD, OTR/L, BCP
Education:
B.S. Eastern Kentucky University
M.S. Boston University
OTD Boston University
Email:
Phone: 859-622-7372
Research/Academic Interests:
- School-based interprofessional collaborative practice
- Emerging occupational therapy professional development in the People’s Republic of China (PRC)
- Intergenerational care and learning programs
- Occupational therapy’s role in disaster and emergency response
- Professional association leadership development
- Occupational therapy student cultural competence
Publications:
Dr. Skees Hermes’s work can be found in several journals including:
- Skees Hermes, S. & Vizvary, E. (Summer 2019). Poised for Success, Part 1. Florida Occupational Therapy Association: FOCUS Newsletter.
- Skees Hermes, S. (Fall 2009). Get A Grip. Bright Feats. St. John’s Press Corporation: Orlando, FL.
- Carrasco, R. C., Hermes, S., Herge, A. E., Stallings-Sahler, S. & Lewin, J. (March 2008). Fast Forward to 2017: Evolving Developmental Disabilities Practice with the Centennial Vision. Developmental Disabilities Special Interest Section Quarterly, AOTA, Inc.
- Skees Hermes, S. (June 2007). A multi-pronged approach for inclusion of preschoolers identified with developmental delays. AOTA SIS Developmental Disabilities. AOTA.
- Skees Hermes, S. (March/ April 2006).Voluntary pre-kindergarten (VPK). Florida Occupational Therapy Association: FOCUS Newsletter.
She has also co-authored books and book chapters including:
- Carrasco, R.C., Skees Hermes, S. & Burgos, B. B. (2012). Supported and Alternative Employment: Developmental Disabilities and Work. In Brent Braveman and Jill J. Page (Eds.) Work: Occupational Therapy Intervention to Promote Participation and Productivity. F. A. Davis: Philadelphia, PA.
- Carrasco, R., & Skees Hermes, S. (2007) Occupational Therapy Provision to Support Participation in Context. In Leslie Jackson (Ed.) Occupational Therapy Services for Children and Youth Under IDEA, 3rd ed. AOTA Press: Bethesda, MD.
Associations/Affiliations/Work History:
- Kentucky Occupational Therapy Association
- Nevada Occupational Therapy Association
- Florida Occupational Therapy Association
- Texas Occupational Therapy Association
- Massachusetts Association for Occupational Therapy
- American Occupational Therapy Association
- World Federation of Occupational Therapy
- Society for the Study of Occupation
Awards/Accolades:
- Award of Recognition, Florida Occupational Therapy Association (2017)
Service Commendations, American Occupational Therapy Association
- (2016 - 2019) Member, Volunteer Leadership Development Committee
- (2015) Member, Ad Hoc Committee on International Work Group and Distinct Value Subgroup Rehabilitation & Participation
- (2008 - 2011), Representative Assembly Alternative for Florida
- (2010) Local Conference Committee, Hospitality Committee Co-Chairperson
- (2007) Ad Hoc Committee for Early Intervention
- (2001) Ad Hoc Committee for the Budget
Allen Keener, OTD, MS, OTR/L, ATP
Associate Professor
Education:
B.S. Education University of Alabama at Birmingham
M.S. Occupational Therapy University of Alabama at Birmingham School
OTD Eastern Kentucky University
Ph.D. (in progress) Rehabilitation Sciences, University of Kentucky
Email: Allen.Keener@eku.edu
Phone: 859-622-2331
Research/Academic Interests:
- Assistive technology
- Occupation-based practice
- Neurological conditions
- Innovative teaching
- Learning practices
Associations/Affiliations/Work History:
- American Occupational Therapy Association
- Alabama Occupational Therapy Association
- Kentucky Occupational Therapy Association
- Rehabilitation Engineering Society of North America
- Former OTA program director/department chair
- Former occupational therapist in pediatrics, outpatient, skilled nursing, acute care, inpatient, mental health, and home healthcare settings.
Awards/Accolades:
- RESNA certified assistive technology professional (ATP)
- 2019 NISOD Award of Excellence for Teaching and Leadership
Education:
B.S. Boston University, occupational therapy
M.A. George Washington University, higher education
Ph.D. University Nevada Las Vegas/Women and Gender Studies, Educational Leadership
Email: Christine.Privott@eku.edu
Phone: 859-622-6326
Research/Academic Interests:
- Teaching and qualitative research interests include gender and work, with a focus on vulnerable populations’ and relationship to models of occupational science and occupational therapy
- Ongoing research in the community with graduate students - studying women in addiction recovery and perceptions of employability
- Mentoring occupational therapy masters and doctoral students’ theses work exploring individuals’ diverse gender, behavioral, cultural, and psychosocial factors and impact on occupation
Publications:
Dr. Privott’s work can be found in several journals including:
- The International Journal of Interdisciplinary Social Sciences
- Open Journal of Occupational Therapy
- The International Journal of Interdisciplinary Social and Community Studies
- Occupational Therapy in Mental Health (in-press)
Associations/Affiliations/Work History:
- Faculty, Eastern Kentucky University, Department of Occupational Science and Occupational Therapy
- Adjunct Faculty, Eastern Kentucky University, Department of Women and Gender Studies (WGS)
- Program Director and Faculty, College of Southern Nevada (CSN), School of Health Sciences, Occupational Therapy Assistant Program (OTA)
- Fieldwork Education Program Manager, American Occupational Therapy Association (AOTA), Bethesda, Maryland
- Editorial Review Board Member, Open Journal of Occupational Therapy
- Manuscript Reviewer, Journal of Occupational Science
- Salary Negotiator Facilitator, American Association of University Women (AAUW)
- Title IX Investigator Training, National Consortium of Higher Education Risk Managers (NCHERM) and EKU, Office of Academic Integrity, Certificate of Completion, 2014
- Member, American Association of Adult Educators and Continuing Education (AAACE)
- Member, American Occupational Therapy Association (AOTA)
- Member, Kentucky Occupational Therapy Association (KOTA)
Awards/Accolades:
- Awarded Common Ground 2018 Interdisciplinary Social Sciences Award Recipient: International Award for Excellence for Volume 13 of the Interdisciplinary Social Sciences Journal Collection.
- Awarded Best Paper, International Organization of Social Sciences and Behavioral Research, Examining women’s perceptions of employability using a Procovery perspective: A qualitative approach in one addiction recovery center, 2016.
- Nominated, 2015, EKU University Programs Award, Excellence in Service Learning
- Nominated, 2015, EKU Critical Thinking Teacher of the Year Award
Geela Spira, PhD, OTR/L
Associate Professor
Education:
B.A. Barnard College
M.S. Columbia University
Ph.D. Nova Southeastern University
Email: Geela.Spira@eku.edu
Phone: 859-622-6345
Research/Academic Interests:
- Sleep
- Sensory Processing
- Global Health
- Intra-professional collaboration
Publications:
Spira, G. & Kupietsky, A. (2005). Oral defensiveness: Children with a dysfunction of sensory regulation. Journal of Clinical Pediatric Dentistry, 29(2), 119-122.
Spira, G. (2019). Use of visual imagery as an alternative to traditional written assignments. Pedagogicon Journal. In publication.
Spira, G. (2019). Interoception: An overview for allied health professionals. Open Journal of Complementary and Alternative Medicine. In publication.
Associations/Affiliations/Work History:
- Clinical experience as an occupational therapist, rehabilitation senior, and Occupational Therapy Director in rehabilitation, burn care, & SNF settings, pediatric out-patient and school settings, & home health care settings.
- American Occupational Therapy Association (AOTA)
- World Federation of Occupational Therapy
- Kentucky Occupational Therapy Association (KOTA)
- KOTA Eastern District co-chair
- Member of the Occupational Therapy task force of the Kentucky Department of Behavioral Health
- Editor and reviewer: Study for the Science of Occupation Conference submissions, AOTA Conference submissions, KOTA Conference submissions, Kentucky Journal of Undergraduate Scholarship, Journal of Occupational Therapy Education.
- Member of Curriculum Committee, Eastern Kentucky University
- Member of the BSOS Sub-Committee, Eastern Kentucky University
- Member of the Occupational Therapy Outcomes Committee, Eastern Kentucky University
- Member of Academic Practice Occupational Therapy Department, Eastern Kentucky University
- Co-Chair of College of Health Sciences Living and Learning Community, with LLC award for Academic Partner of the year from Residence Life and Housing, Eastern Kentucky University
- Chair of Faculty Research- College of Health Sciences Living and Learning Community
- Scholar’s Day representative for Occupational Therapy Department, College of Health Sciences, Eastern Kentucky University
- Occupational Therapy Faculty Library Liaison for J.S. Smith Collection, Eastern Kentucky University
- Occupational Therapy Education Abroad Liaison, Eastern Kentucky University
Awards/Accolades:
- Recipient of E. Kossoff Best Teaching Practices Award, Barnard College
- Nominated for Instructional Design best use of technology, Eastern Kentucky University
- 2019 American Occupational Therapy Association Emerging Scholar award
- 2019 Admitted to Columbia University Alumni Loyal Blue Society
Casey Humphrey, OTD, MHA, OTR/L
Assistant Professor
Education:
Email: Casey.Humphrey@eku.edu
Phone: 859-622-9956
Research/Academic Interests:
- Occupational Therapy Fieldwork
- Brain Injury Rehabilitation
- Interprofessional Education
Associations/Affiliations/Work History:
- Clinical experience in community-based, brain injury rehabilitation, health care administration, and geriatrics.
- Kentucky Occupational Therapy Association Executive Board Member
- American Occupational Therapy Association
- Certified Brain Injury Specialist through the Brain Injury Association of America
- Certified Driving Rehabilitation Specialist through the Association of Driving Rehabilitation Specialists
Awards/Accolades:
- 2019 American Occupational Therapy Association Young Scientist Theater
- 2017 Eastern Kentucky University Outstanding Online Graduate Student Award
Leah Simpkins, OTD, OTR/L, CPAM
Education:
Email: Leah.Simpkins@eku.edu
Phone: 859-622-9956
Research/Academic Interests:
- Geriatric, older adult population
- Traumatic brain injury
- Therapy dogs in long-term care facilities
- Comparison studies with various disciplines with interdisciplinary educational opportunities
Associations/Affiliations/Work History:
- Over 15 years with the geriatric population and has served 14 years in management positions as a rehabilitation director
- KOTA, Member
- AOTA, Member
- DPAM’s supervisor for the State of Kentucky
- Faculty advisor for the Pi Theta Epsilon (Alpha Zeta Chapter) at EKU
- Primary areas of interest include long-term care facilities, home health, independent living, assisted living, acute care (adult), traumatic brain, and aging in place
Awards/Accolades:
- Recognized as a Kentucky Colonel by the Governor for her work with the geriatric population and community involvement events in rural areas of the state