Dr. Kristie Koenig will be presenting "Listening to Perspectives of Individuals with Autism: Intervention Model for Adolescents and Adults with Autism Spectrum Disorders," and Professors Anita Perr and Sheri Wadler will be presenting their poster, "New Trends in Multicultural Education: Disability in a Global Context, an Intersession Course in Ghana, Africa." Teaching Assistant and PhD candidate, Siaw Chui Chai, will also be participating at the conference and will be presenting her poster, co-authored by Dr. Jim Hinojosa, "Enabling Optimal Daily Hand Function for Clients with Flexor Tendon Injury."

After 24 years in the Department, Clinical Professor Paula McCreedy has retired from teaching. Paula served as the Department's longstanding, dedicated Academic Fieldwork Coordinator and also shared her clinical expertise in the areas of mental health, human development, community practice, professional issues and occupation.

On October 1st, 2009 the Department held a farewell reception in Paula's honor. The well attended event included alumni, faculty, students and staff, along with many of Paula's local colleagues.

See a slideshow of pictures from the reception:

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Beverly is a fellow of the American Occupational Therapy Association. Her history in rehabilitation dates back to being recruited by Dr. Kessler to head the Occupational Therapy Department at the Kessler Institute for Rehabilitation.  She started two OT programs in New Jersey and worked for over 18 years in the Department of Occupational Therapy at New York University. She wrote numerous papers and chapters in medical textbooks; she lectured throughout the US and abroad.  

As her daughter said during Beverly's funeral, "While we were all proud of mom's accomplishments, they would be hollow without having a close loving family and many friends. That is the real measure of someone's life. Not only did she give us advice or meat pies, or blueberry muffins, or things to help us in our daily lives. Not only did she earn degrees and accolades. But she really touched others lives in such a positive and meaningful way. To love and be loved-in her case by so many-is the measure of a life well lived. She was so giving of herself, and so many of you have told me throughout the years how giving she was and how she made you not only better professionals but better people. How she helped you through hard times and was a confidant." 

Beverly inspired creativity and modeled intense caring and patience. She guided with a soft touch and encouraged us to think outside the box. She developed relationships between people and departments so that optimal services could be provided.

Beverly Bain is awarded a RESNA Mentor Award for her efforts and contributions as an educator in the fields of occupational therapy, assistive technology and rehabilitation and service to RESNA in the Occupational Therapy Professional Specialty Group."

After Anita's address, Donna Kelly accepted the award with the following words: 

"It is my honor to accept this award on behalf of the family of Dr. Beverly Bain. Beverly had been my mentor and a model of excellence to strive towards as an OT involved in assistive technology, as a director, and also as a person. 

All who knew Beverly were amazed by her endless energy, enthusiasm and passion for OT, for teaching, and for assisting individuals with disabilities. This was infectious. She made you feel good about what you were doing presently, and also sparked you to do more. This was her gift and how she touched so many lives. I am going to read her daughter Karin's words of acceptance.

On behalf of my mother, Beverly K. Bain, my father, John Bain, and me, Karin Bain Kukral, we appreciate and are honored by this award. We wish we could have been there in person. But we understand this award is a way for so many of you to express your appreciation of how you have been so positively touched by her. I have had many people tell me that they wouldn't have done many things, or gone as far professionally, if it weren't for mom's encouragement.  

When I was asked to say something in accepting this award on her behalf, I thought about what it means to be a "mentor" versus just a teacher or consultant. Inspiration and guidance, both on very personal level, came to mind. These were what mom was really great at giving. She had such a passion for her work and research; for her patients and co-workers; for systems, testing and procedures to the smallest of gadgets and switches-all to make life better for those less fortunate. She inspired many people in diverse fields-not just therapists and patients-by example and compassion to reach beyond what they thought they could do. In a way, mentoring is just another way of mothering.

While I pursued a very different career path than my mother, there are three tenets that hold true no matter what you do:

1.        Be the best that you cans be, whatever you do, by working hard;

2.        Be open minded and creative in your approach to problem solving;

3.        Whenever possible, help others achieve their goals by being compassionate and giving of yourself. 

One way for all of you to further honor my mother would be to hold true to these three tenets, and find passion in whatever you choose to do." 

The Department of Occupational Therapy mourns the loss of our dear friend and colleague and celebrates this recognition of her excellence.  

Obituary

View some photos of the event:

The presentation of the 2009 AOTA and AOTF Awards & Recognitions at the conference on April 25^th was a particularly proud moment for the NYU Occupational Therapy community.  Congratulations go out to Assistant Professor Kristie Koenig, who was named to the American Occupational Therapy Association Roster of Fellows this year.  This prestigious and highly selective award acknowledges her for "Innovative Leadership in Research, Education and Practice in Occupational Therapy." We are proud to add her to the list of NYU OT faculty who hold the AOTA Roster of Fellows recognition: Jane Bear-Lehman, Jim Hinojosa, and Anita Perr.

Also named on this year's AOTA Roster of Fellows was NYU Alumna Sharon A. Gutman, PhD, OTR, Class of '97, who was honored for "Outstanding Contributions to Research and Intervention in Autism." Another NYU Alumna, Margret Kaplan, PhD, OTR, Class of '02, received the AOTA Recognition of Achievement Award for "Promoting Family-Centered Practice for Underserved Children."  Hearty congratulations to them both and to the many other NYU OT Alumni who were recognized at this year's conference.

The NYU OT faculty presentations at this year's AOTA conference included a workshop entitled, "Evaluation and Treatment of Peripheral Nerve Injuries: An Evidenced-Based Approach," given by Clinical Assistant Professor Sally Poole, MS, OTR/L, CHT and her colleagues Colleen Maher, MS, OTR/L, CHT and Serina Berger, MS, OTR.  Associate Professor and Department Chair Jane Bear-Lehman, presented a poster, "Unilateral and Bilateral Upper Extremity Weight-bearing Effect on Hand Function And Functional Performance After Brain Injury," and former Teaching Assistant, Tien-Ni Wang, presented a poster entitled, "The Relationship Between Postural Control and Fine Motor Skills in Preterm Infants."

The article is titled NYU Students Bring Aid to the Bronx and is available online.

Susan Braham undertook a professional transformation to occupational therapy after pursuing careers in dance performance, choreography, massage therapy and yoga therapy. Building on her varied experience, she hopes to continue to expand her holistic perspective on helping others during her graduate work at NYU. Her motivation in the field of OT is grounded in the desire to empower people, and to help them help themselves. Susan has particular interest in hand and upper extremity work as well as in pain management, end of life issues, and hospice care.

Janelle Carbo began the OT program at NYU determined to become a hand therapist. Although she continues to pursue that goal, she has adopted a new perspective that is less focused on a person's hands and more concerned with the person as a whole.  Indeed, her interests in occupational therapy are varied, and she approaches the transition from student to practitioner with the desire to be client-centered while striving to become the best professional that she can be.

Razia Khan recently participated in the Disability in a Global Context course in Ghana which has inspired her to set her sights on a series of new goals. Previously committed to becoming a school-based therapist in the US, she is now interested in practicing abroad and creating programs for occupational therapy education in developing countries. Razia aspires to make a contribution to global awareness, and to help people who have limited access to the services that we take for granted in the US.

The Frieda J. Behlen Occupational Therapy Scholarship is an endowed fund created principally by gifts from NYU OT alumni to honor the memory of Frieda J. Behlen, founder and longtime chair of NYU's Department of Occupational Therapy.  The award takes the form of a tuition credit applied toward summer courses because summer student financial aid is generally not available. 

by Alison Fanous

Professor Gerald Voelbel joined NYU as Assistant Professor in the Department of Occupational Therapy in September 2008.  He has a PhD in Psychology with a concentration in Neuropsychology.  Coming from outside the field of occupational therapy, Professor Voelbel brings increased perspective to the OT Department; he brings insight into the value of conversation and connection between neuroscience, neuropsychology and occupational therapy.

"The crossover is trying to understand the neural science part of it, cognitive as well as brain aspects, and then linking it to rehabilitation."

In fact, much of Professor Voelbel's work is focused on translational research.  Professor Voelbel describes his research in three stages: first, understanding the cognitive deficits that occur as a result of an event such as traumatic brain injury or a condition such as multiple sclerosis; second, gaining an understanding of what parts of the neural system are affected by the disorder.  The third aspect involves cognitive rehabilitation: trying to give cognitive tools to people with disorders so that they can have richer life experiences and return to their normal lives.

Professor Voelbel's research focuses on patients who have suffered traumatic brain injuries and people diagnosed with multiple sclerosis. Functional neuroimaging tools are used to see what parts of the neural system are affected in such patients.  Professor Voelbel uses a neuroimaging tool named functional near-infared spectroscopy (fNIRS), which employs light of a specific wavelength that can penetrate bone and detect changes in oxygenated and deoxygenated blood.  Using this tool, researchers are able to see when the brain is active in a specific region: active regions have more oxygenated blood and vasodilation, and after the cells use it the blood becomes deoxygenated. "We can see where the oxygenated blood is going and where it is used.  We can see what parts of the brain are active and which are not."

The clinical relevance of this tool is significant, says Professor Voelbel.  Through his research, he observes that there are specific brain disorders (such as in mild traumatic brain injury) for which there are very few good diagnostic tools because there is no damage to brain tissue, no contusion, or no hematoma. "However we do know there is disruption in the cellular mechanism in the acute phase.  PET scans show this over 10 days: cells are working harder but being deprived of glucose and oxygen as the vascular system is constricted."  The ability of fNIRS to detect and show the oxygenation level of blood in the brain means that it may be utilized as an emergency room tool to diagnose mild traumatic brain injury or concussion.  This tool is also mobile so it can be used to perform bedside evaluations of whether or not a patient is aware, has cognitive faculties, or is emerging from a coma. 

Using fNIRS, Professor Voelbel is investigating executive dysfunction in mild traumatic brain injury. This study investigates the cognitive function of problem solving, attention as well as working memory, with the view to helping with treatment protocols for mild traumatic brain injury.  Professor Voelbel has another specific goal for this ongoing research: "I hope to utilize the fNIRS tool in diagnosing concussions in athletes, from recreational athletes all the way to professional athletes." This technology may become useful for deciding when the appropriate time is for the athlete's return to play. He is a co-investigator of a NIH Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) grant mechanism, which is investigating the utility of fNIRS technology in moderate and severe traumatic brain injury. "Using this technology we can target interventions that can help with the recovery of cognitive functions."  Professor Voelbel is also conducting research in a similar fashion with people diagnosed with multiple sclerosis, investigating the neural mechanisms that are affected by MS that consequently affect working memory and concentration.

Another pending trajectory of Professor Voelbel's research is to start a speed of processing intervention study: one with multiple sclerosis and one with traumatic brain injury.  "Speed of information processing is one of the primary sequela of these conditions, which can impact people in their everyday lives and the functions of everyday living.  The goal here is to create an enhanced treatment protocol to benefit such patients."

A background in neuroscience and neuropsychology, which is both clinical and experimental, helps to guide Professor Voelbel's research toward turning something that is experimental into something clinically relevant. This of course is what translational neuroscience is all about.  "I'm not just working on the bench, rather I am doing experimental research that can be applied to treat, or diagnose or to understand at a clinical level what is happening with people with MS or traumatic brain injury."

Professor Voelbel teaches Neuroscience and the Medical and Psychiatric Conditions courses in the OT Department.  Both are critical to the education of occupational therapists. For, without an understanding of neural science and the nervous system, he says, occupational therapy practitioners will have difficulty treating patients.  "Most of the interventions that occupational therapists create are ameliorating a disorder of the CNS (central nervous system).  Therefore, understanding the mechanism of the disorder is crucial.  Students in OT are taught to treat the whole person. What I try to teach them is some of the basic fundamentals of neuroscience from the cellular level to a functional level. That is the course that I want them to understand: the movement from the cellular level to the whole person, which is integral to occupational therapy."

Akwaaba: Welcome. That's the way we were greeted over and over again during our intersession course, Disability in the Global Context: Ghana, which took place over 12 days in Accra, Ghana. And we did feel welcomed. In fact, for some of us who are long-time New Yorkers, it was culture shock just to have to smile and greet everyone we met on the street. What a warm and friendly society.

The timing of the course was serendipitous. Ghana recently held elections and run off elections, and we were there for the transfer of power. Although none of us actually made it close enough to see the ceremonies, we were honored to be part of the experience. Ghanaian's hopefulness with their new president echoed our similar situation in the United States.  The connection was mentioned by many people and was often a starting point for further discussions.

As instructors, Sheri Wadler and I, both of the Department of Occupational Therapy at the Steinhardt School of Culture, Education, and Human Development, developed this new course as an exploration of place in relation to health and disability. Fifteen graduate students registered for and participated in the course. The interdisciplinary group included Steinhardt representation from the following departments and programs: Occupational Therapy; Speech-Language Pathology and Audiology; Applied Psychology; International Education; and Higher and Postsecondary Education. In addition to Steinhardt scholars, students from the Public Administration and Health and International Health Policy and Management programs at the Robert F. Wagner Graduate School of Public Service and the Global Affairs program at the School of Continuing and Professional Studies attended the course. Each student brought a rich background and experience to the group, and together we were able to explore the complicated issues that arose in Ghana.

Using a framework to interview people with and without disabilities in health facilities and in public places, students were able to hear first hand accounts and personal views on family, health and politics, among many other topics. During the two week course, students visited mental health facilities, hospitals, schools, and elder care centers. They also evaluated the environments they visited in terms of physical accessibility and sensory stimulation. In addition to on-site class seminars, local experts were invited to deliver guest lectures which were lively, enthralling and insightful. In their journals, students reflected on their own learning, and demonstrated ways to synthesize health education in the cultural context of west Africa into their own worldviews and professional roles.

In addition to course work in the cosmopolitan surroundings of Accra, students visited the Gold Coast region contextualing traditional village life and the history of colonial occupation. Tracing the origins of the African slave trade along the Atlantic coast, students visited the Elmina Slave Castle. Organized in conjunction with a group of social work students from a New York Consortium, including students from NYU's Silver School of Social Work. These two groups also traveled together to the Kakum National Forest where they trekked a canopy walk over the rain forest. That same evening, these groups were joined with a group of Tisch School of the Arts Scholars in Cape Coast, Ghana, for a banquet and interactive performance of Fetu dancers and musicians.

As is often the case in special experiences such as this, the whole of the experience is so much more than the sum of its parts. The participants, site visits, excursions, meals, accommodations, and even the bus driver all added to our stories and memories. My own experience was just wonderful. Support from the Steinhardt Office of Academic Initiatives and Global Programs, as well as from NYU Ghana made this course, which required substantial planning, a tremendous success. Class discussions extended beyond my expectations. Much of the credit goes to the students who were mature, adventuresome, caring, and passionate. They placed the bar high for future classes to meet and exceed their experiences.

We are proud to add her to the list of faculty who hold this recognition: Jane Bear-Lehman, Jim Hinojosa, and Anita Perr.

NYU Steinhardt offers this unique admissions option for prospective candidates who would like the opportunity to progress from master's to doctoral work without interrupting their studies.

Through the 30-credit M.A. program students take a core of graduate level courses in occupational therapy theory, research, and professional skills and select an area of specialization or clinical focus such as pediatrics, mental health, upper quadrant, assistive technology, physical disabilities, or school-based practice.

The D.P.S. provides 36 credits of advanced study beyond the master's degree. Skilled occupational therapists are prepared to deliver, present, and collaborate with interdisciplinary professionals to provide high quality care. Students are offered two areas of advanced clinical specialization: pediatrics and upper quadrant.

Applicants interested in being considered for both the M.A. and D.P.S. must submit:

• completed application for the post-professional M.A. program (OTTH). A second application for the D.P.S. is not required.
• non-refundable application fee of $75.00
• resume/curriculum vitae
• statement of purpose (which indicates interest in being considered for the "Single Decision Option")
• transcripts from each postsecondary school attended
• three letters of recommendation
• official GRE scores
• official TOEFL scores from all applicants whose native language is not English and did not receive the equivalent of a 4 year U.S. undergraduate education from an institution where English is the official language of instruction

Prospective candidates should apply to the post-professional M.A. program (OTTH) and be clear in their statement of purpose that they wish to be considered under the "Single Decision Option for the M.A. and D.P.S." In their statement of purpose, applicants should explain their educational and professional goals as they relate to the progression from core to advanced level study.

Visit "How to Apply" to learn more.

Early application is crucial for the fullest consideration. Visit our financial aid section to see a full listing of options and to learn how to apply for financial aid.

Selected opportuntities include:

21st Century Scholarships are offered to full-time, newly admitted master's and advanced certificate applicants showing the greatest potential and who show the strongest fit with the vision and mission of NYU Steinhardt. Applicants must meet all application deadlines (admission and FAFSA) for automatic consideration. No scholarship application required.

Steinhardt Graduate Scholarships are offered to full-time master's and doctoral students who are academically talented and show a need for financial assistance. Applicants must meet all application deadlines (admission and FAFSA) for automatic consideration. No scholarship application required.

OPPORTUNITY SCHOLARSHIPS

The New York University Opportunity Fellowship is awarded on a highly competitive basis to newly admitted students from underrepresented groups (African Americans, Latinos, and Native Americans) who exhibit strong academic ability. Several scholarships (some with stipend awards) are offered each fall to those intending to pursue full-time study. A completed scholarship application, separate from the admission application and FAFSA, must be submitted by March 1 (only available for the fall semester) to the Office of Graduate Admissions. Click here for the application and instructions. 

The Deans Opportunity Scholarship is a competitive award for newly admitted master's and advanced certificate students from underrepresented groups (African Americans, Latinos, and Native Americans) who intend to pursue full-time study. A completed scholarship application, separate from the admission application and FAFSA, must be submitted by March 1 for the fall/summer and November 1 for the spring to the Office of Graduate Admissions. Click here for the application and instructions.  

The Health Professions Opportunity Scholarship is designed to assist newly admitted full-time graduate students from historically underrepresented groups (African Americans, Latinos, and Native Americans) enrolled in any of the following health-related areas: physical or occupational therapy, community and international health, health education, nutrition, and speech pathology. A completed scholarship application, separate from the admission application and FAFSA, must be submitted by March 1 for the fall and November 1 for the spring to the Office of Graduate Admissions. Click here for the application and instructions. 

Doctoral Financial Aid

 All applicants to Ph.D. and Ed.D programs who meet the December 15 application deadline are considered for fellowships, assistantships, and scholarships.  There are no scholarship applications required.

On Thursday, February 19th 2009, the Department of Occupational Therapy hosted the 6th Annual Anne Cronin Mosey Lectureship on the New York University campus.

The event was held in the Rosenthal Pavilion at the Kimmel Center for Student Life, located at 60 Washington Square South.  With over 140 attendees, this year's Anne Cronin Mosey Lectureship was the largest to date.  Guests included NYU alumni, faculty and current students, in addition to students and faculty from other local institutions and many local Occupational Therapists. 

The evening began at 5:30 pm with a wine reception and dinner, followed by the announcement of the recipients of the 2009 Frieda J. Behlen Scholarships: Susan Braham, Janelle Carbo and Razia Khan.

Gary Kielhofner, DrPH, OTR/L, FAOTA delivered this year's Anne Cronin Mosey lecture, "Scholarship in Support of Evidence-Based Practice: Bridging the Gap between Theory, Research and Practice in Occupational Therapy." He used the Model of Human Occupation as an example to examine arguments concerning the role of scholarship in occupational therapy, and proposed how scholarship can more clearly support practice. 

Listen to the Lecture

You can listen to the full lecture online or download it to your favorite audioplayer.

Click the play button or download the lecture here.

Gary Kielhofner, DrPH, OTR/L, FAOTA

Dr. Kielhofner is currently Professor and Wade/Meyer Chair, Department of Occupational Therapy, College of Health and Human Development Sciences, and Professor of Public Health, at the University of Illinois at Chicago.  Among other scholarly works, Dr. Kielhofner has worked on the theoretical development, research and application of the Model of Human Occupation for over 30 years. He is the author/editor of 17 books and has published over 130 articles. His work has been translated into multiple languages and has influenced occupational therapy worldwide.  Dr. Kielhofner is a fellow of the American Occupational Therapy Association, a member of the Academy of Research of the American Occupational Therapy Foundation, a recipient of the A. Jean Ayres award. He is recipient of 3 honorary Doctoral Degrees, two of which were awarded from European Universities. He was named by the University of Illinois as a University Scholar, an honor bestowed upon only a handful of professors at UIC over the years.

During the afternoon session, an expert group of occupational therapists provided their commentary on the morning's discussion.  Panelists included Vanessa Giardina, M.A., OTR/L, NYU Adjunct Faculty, representing pediatric private practice; Kristie Koenig, Ph.D., OTR/L, NYU OT faculty, representing interventions and research for school-age and adolescent groups; Mary Petti-Weber, M.A., OTR/L, representing mental health and a Snoezelen room; and Diana Chen Wong, M.A., OTR/L, NYU Adjunct Faculty, representing the TBI area of practice.

To hear a podcast of the Dr. Polatajko's lecture, please visit: http://steinhardt.nyu.edu/podcast/

Helene J. Polatajko, Ph.D., FCAOT
Dr. Polatajko is Professor and Chair of the Department of Occupational Science and Occupational Therapy and the Graduate Department of Rehabilitation Science at the University of Toronto. She is an internationally respected researcher, educator, and clinician. Her research interests in occupation and its enablement, especially the role of cognition in enabling performance in children with Developmental Coordination Disorder, has led to the development of Cognitive Orientation to Daily Occupational Performance (CO-OP). CO-OP is a new, cognitive-based treatment approach that enables clients with performance problems to reach their occupational goals.

Vanessa Giardina, M.A., OTR/L, is a pediatric occupational therapist and the owner of Createabilities OT, PLLC, a private pediatric sensory integration clinic in New York. She is an NYU alumnus and has served as an adjunct faculty member in the NYU Department of Occupational Therapy.

Kristie Koenig, Ph.D., is an Assistant Professor in the NYU Department of Occupational Therapy. Her research presently examines the influence of sensory processing and motor planning deficits on behavior and functional communication in children and adults with autism spectrum and regulatory disorders.

Mary Petti-Webber, M.A., OTR/L works part-time at Beth Israel Medical Center in New York as Administrative Coordinator and Chief of Occupational Therapy. She has more than 20 years of experience in psychiatric occupational therapy. Since 1999, she has also worked in private practice with children under 5 years old with autism spectrum disorders.

Diana Chen Wong, OTR/L, is the Director of Occupational Therapy at Park Terrace Care Center in New York. Ms. Wong’s experience includes a sensory approach with patients with post brain injury and coma. She is an alumnus of NYU and currently serves as an adjunct faculty member in the NYU Department of Occupational Therapy.

“Our goal is to promote the development of outstanding, ethical occupational therapy practitioners and scholars who are prepared to respond to patients’ ever-changing needs,” she said.

Dr. Bear-Lehman has been an active and distinguished member of the faculty since she came to NYU more than three years ago. She joined the Department in 2004 as an Associate Professor and was awarded tenure in 2006. Before joining the faculty at NYU, she was on faculty at Columbia University, the University of Toronto, and the University of Illinois at Chicago, teaching and directing occupational therapy courses in adult physical disabilities and research. She presents nationally and internationally on topics related to the assessment of hand function and has over 50 publications in refereed journals and textbooks.

Currently, Dr. Bear-Lehman is a co-investigator in a National Institutes of Health/National Institute of Aging (NIH/NIA) grant studying the cognitive and physical bases of disablement in seniors. Focusing on older adults with diminished hand functions, she is developing and testing a self-report instrument to measure their ability to perform common daily tasks.

Jane Bear-Lehman, Department Chair, Associate Professor, and Director of Doctoral Programs, says of the program, "NYU OT was the first in the nation to open its doors for occupational therapists to earn a Ph.D. over 35 years ago. Once again, the Department is leading into the future with this new clinical doctorate program."

D.P.S. students can choose between two areas of specialization: pediatrics or upper quadrant care. The final project for the degree - a cumulative electronic portfolio - documents students' integrated knowledge and skills in their specialty areas. Adds Professor Jim Hinojosa, "The D.P.S. program will enhance the competence of advanced practitioners. The e-portfolio is an exciting and futuristic component."

Students in the program are already established occupational therapy professionals, like Pamela Lawton, a new D.P.S. student and 1981 NYU OT graduate. Lawton is a certified hand therapist and has been a practicing occupational therapist for 26 years. Professor Bear-Lehman notes, "Our D.P.S. students are seasoned clinicians who wish to formally advance their clinical knowledge. They also want to expand their capacities for leadership and management in the clinical world."

Applications for the D.P.S. program are accepted for fall admission only. This year, the Fall 2008 application deadline is March 1, 2008. For an application packet or for more information, please contact the Enrollment Administrator at (212) 998-5847 or occupational.therapy@nyu.edu.

Her investigative focus grew out of her clinical specialization, which is working in neonatal intensive care. She has had a strong relationship for many years with Dr. Ian Holzman, Professor in the Department of Pediatrics and Reproductive Medicine at the Mount Sinai Medical Center. Their professional association began when they worked together in New York. Dr. Holzman continued to collaborate with Dr. Howe even while she was working in Taiwan. With Dr. Howe's return to the U.S., Dr. Holzman has committed himself and his department to working with Dr. Howe to continue research and discovery about babies in Mt. Sinai's NICU.

The American Occupational Therapy Association's Specialty Certification in Pediatrics has been earned by only about 300 occupational therapists, making Dr. Howe part of an elite few who have qualified for it. She also is certified in Neuro-Developmental Treatment in Pediatrics and in the administration of the Neonatal Oral Motor Assessment Scale. During the past 11 years, Dr. Howe has taught at Hunter College and Mount Sinai Medical Center in New York and Chang Gung University (in Taiwan) and National Taiwan University.

Tsu-Hsin Howe's presence, combined with that of Dr. Kristie Koenig and Professor Jim Hinojosa, creates a powerful pediatric occupational therapy knowledge base within the Department. And, having earned her Doctor of Philosophy in Occupational Therapy from the Department in 2004, it is a pleasure to be able to welcome her back.

"We are thrilled that Kristie is coming to NYU," said Jane Bear-Lehman, Associate Professor and Director of Doctoral Programs. "She's recognized nationally for her skills and talent in working with children who have autism. And she's passionate about teaching occupational therapy."

During her time as an assistant professor at Temple, Dr. Koenig taught courses in human development, theoretical foundations in pediatrics, and clinical conditions in pediatrics. She has also taught in advanced theory and sensory integration specialization. Her research interests include behavioral expressions and sensory processing of temperament, structural equation modeling, and uses of personal narratives of individuals with autism. She also co-presents a series of workshops with individuals with autistic spectrum disorders for therapists, educators, and direct care providers.

Dr. Koenig was recently selected as a Leadership Mentoring Fellow by the American Occupational Therapy Association (AOTA) and American Occupational Therapy Foundation (AOTF). One of 18 candidates from a national pool, she was chosen for her experience in academic leadership and her commitment to pursuing high levels of leadership responsibility. With the fellowship group, Dr. Koenig is participating in the AOTA/AOTF Leadership Mentoring Program, which is based on "mentoring circles." Developed by the Mentoring Company, it introduces leadership theory and practice while engaging participants in a standardized leadership assessment process.

Kristie Koenig's arrival adds a dynamic depth to the Department's pediatric specialty area and beyond.

Dr. Hinojosa's lecture, "Becoming Innovators in an Era of Hyperchange," will be published by the AOTA later this year in the American Journal of Occupational Therapy. Everyone at the Department congratulates Dr. Hinojosa on this distinguished achievement.

Orientation to Occupational Therapy: Course Available for Undergraduates

Are you an undergraduate interested in pursuing a career in the health professions? Not sure which field is right for you? Then consider adding Orientation to Occupational Therapy (a 2-credit course) to your schedule this fall! The course is beneficial to students considering any of the health professions or currently studying in health career programs, as they will likely work with occupational therapists during their careers.

This course is designed for undergraduates interested in exploring the field of occupational therapy through weekly seminars, guest speakers, and clinical site visits. Students will learn the basic roles and functions of the occupational therapist and the role of occupational therapy in medical, educational, and community models, as well as in other emerging areas of practice. Guest speakers will include occupational therapists working in pediatrics, physical disabilities, mental health, and other treatment settings. A recent student in the class said, "The course was overall a ‘feel great' class. I learned so much from our guest speakers and our field visits. I gained a new sense of appreciation and enlightenment for clients in therapy."

This Spring, the course will be held on Thursdays from 2:00 - 3:15 p.m. The course number is E40.0001, and the call number is 40584. Come check out whether the dynamic, multifaceted profession of occupational therapy is for you!

Before the lecture, the recipients of the 2007 Frieda J. Behlan Occupational Therapy Scholarship, Rebecca Berg and Lauren Selsky, were presented with certificates in honor of their awards.  Lynn Bassini, founder of Guatemala Healing Hands Foundation (GHHF), then gave the keynote address.  Following a luncheon, Bassini moderated a lively panel discussion that followed.  Drawing from her extensive experience working abroad, Bassini discussed a wide range of topics including how to select a medical mission, networking, ethical and legal concerns, and cross-cultural differences and sensitivities. 

The distinguished panel featured occupational therapy professionals with significant experience working in less developed countries: Signian McGeary (Bangladesh, China, India, Central America, Singapore, Australia), Izel Obermeyer (Kenya, Brazil, Namibia, South Africa), Diane Tewfik (Muldova), and Debra Tupé (Cuba, Nicaragua).  After the discussion, attendees enjoyed the opportunity to mix and mingle with old friends and colleagues.  Large groups gathered around the information table after the event, and many were eager to learn more about how to help.  Additionally, representatives from GHHF and the Peace Corps were also present at the table to answer questions. 

The Anne Cronin Mosey Lectureship addresses timely and controversial issues facing the occupational therapy profession.  It is sponsored annually by the Department of Occupational Therapy and the Occupational Therapy Alumni Board, bringing together current students, alumni, OT professionals, and others from the NYU and occupational therapy community.  The lectureship honors Dr. Anne Cronin Mosey, former professor and chair of the Department, for her many achievements and contributions to NYU and the occupational therapy profession.

Dr. Mosey has been an active and important member of the Department community since beginning as an instructor here in 1966. She went on to serve as assistant and associate professor and then to full professorship in 1975. She was also Chair of the Department from 1972 to 1980. Her major research and professional interests have been in the philosophies of applied scientific inquiry and science-based professions.

Dr. Mosey has received numerous awards and distinctions during her celebrated career, including the 1985 Eleanor Clarke Slagle Lectureship, one of the highest honors from the American Occupational Therapy Association. She is the author of numerous influential occupational therapy publications and textbooks. In 2003, the Department established the annual Anne Cronin Mosey Lectureship in recognition of Dr. Mosey's achievements. The lectureship, now in its fourth year, addresses controversial, timely issues facing the occupational therapy profession.

On Sunday, March 25, 2007, the Fourth Annual Anne Cronin Mosey Lectureship will be held at NYU's Kimmel Center. Sponsored by the Department and the Alumni Board, the event addresses controversial issues facing the profession of occupational therapy. This year's lecture, "Volunteering Overseas: The Pearls and Pitfalls," will feature a panel discussion with a group of distinguished occupational therapy professionals.

Many professionals in occupational therapy (and related health professions) are becoming increasingly interested in providing services for those in less fortunate regions of the world and for those affected by natural disasters. At this year's event, the panel will be discussing volunteer experiences in occupational therapy overseas and the moral, ethical, legal, cultural, and practical issues that can arise.

Each panelist will address issues and experiences from her own time abroad, offering insights into a wide variety of geographic locations, societies, and types of practice. Issues to be discussed include implications and potential complications of medical missions, impacts of foreign class structures and politics on practice, bridging cultural differences, and the impact upon the service site after the service provider leaves.

Lynn Bassini, founder of the Guatemala Healing Hands Foundation, will be the keynote speaker and panel moderator. Panelists are Signian McGeary, Izel Obermeyer, Diane Tewfik, and Debra Tupé. In addition to the lecture and panel discussion, there will be a brunch, and the recipients of the 2007 Frieda J. Behlen scholarships will be announced.

Fees (brunch included): $20 for current NYU OT students; $40 for 2002-2006 NYU OT alumni; $60 for NYU alumni; and $70 for those not NYU-affiliated.

D.P.S. students can choose between two areas of specialization, pediatrics or upper quadrant care. The final project for the degree – a cumulative electronic portfolio – documents students’ integrated knowledge and skills in their specialty area. Adds Professor and Chair Jim Hinojosa, “The D.P.S. program will enhance the competence of advanced practitioners. The e-portfolio is an exciting and futuristic component.”

Jane Bear-Lehman, Associate Professor and Director of Doctoral Programs, says of the program, “NYU OT was the first in the nation to open its doors for occupational therapists to earn a Ph.D. over 35 years ago. Once again, the department is leading into the future with this new clinical doctorate program.”

Applications for the Doctor of Professional Studies (D.P.S.) are accepted for fall admission only. This year, the application deadline is March 1, 2007. For an application packet, or for more information, please contact the Enrollment Administrator at (212) 998-5853 or occupational.therapy@nyu.edu.

Contact Information

Kristina Aranbayeva
Phone: 212-998-5847
ka471@nyu.edu

The award was presented at the annual Rehabilitation Engineering and Assistive Technology Association of North America conference in Atlanta. The Steinhardt OT/ Tisch ITP team was one of five winning groups in a competition that drew more than 50 submissions.

Vaishali Khandare from Occupational Therapy and Heather Dewey-Hagborg from ITP developed Smart Hug, which also includes software that can be used in data collection.

For more, go to http://www.deweyhagborg.com/SmartHug/

Contact Information

James Devitt
Phone: 212-998-6808
james.devitt@nyu.edu

Hinojosa was chosen by the AOTA for his "contribution to the knowledge of the profession" and for inspiring others in the field through publications, lectures and other activities. The award is named for Eleanor Clarke Slagle, one of the pioneers in occupational therapy education and service.

From the AOTA:

Dr. Jim Hinojosa's sphere of influence reaches throughout the occupational therapy profession. An extraordinary contributor to the profession, he is a scholar, theorist, educator, practitioner, and tireless leader. Dr. Hinojosa has worked to increase our understanding of children with disabilities, emphasizing the importance of a thoughtful collaborative relationship between the therapist and the family to enhance the quality of life for all. He has touched the lives of students and practitioners with his passion for the art and science of occupational therapy and the necessity of using theory in all areas of practice.

Contact Information

Jennifer Zwiebel
Phone: 212-998-6797
jennifer.zwiebel@nyu.edu