Fall 2020 Division of Occupational Therapy Update

The Fall 2020 semester has been unlike any other in the history of the WVU MOT Program. The coronavirus pandemic has created unprecedented challenges to clinical fieldwork, on-campus learning, and program admissions. Despite these potential barriers, our clinical partners, students, faculty, and staff have worked within the necessary precautions to continue all aspects of program operations. Hybrid delivery models have increased lecture content in online formats. Lab activities have continued on-campus with a commitment to social distancing, use of masks and gloves, frequent handwashing, and enhanced sanitization of equipment, furniture, and the general lab setting. With COVID-19 cases continuing to rise locally and across the country, it is anticipated that this approach will remain in effect through the spring 2021 semester.  

Davis Promoted to Vice Chair

Shortly after Dr. Wheeler assumed his position as Chair of the Division of Occupational Therapy, Dr. Diana Davis was appointed Division Vice Chair. According to Wheeler: “Diana has a great work ethic and is an established leader within WVU as well as at the State and National levels.” Davis is past president of the West Virginia Occupational Therapy Association and currently serves as a member of the American Occupational Therapy Association’s Representative Assembly. Davis will also serve as the Program Director for the developing entry-level Occupational Therapy Doctorate Program which anticipates accepting its inaugural cohort in December 2020 with a May 2021 start date. The OTD Program candidacy application was submitted to the Accreditation Council for Occupational Therapy Education in August 2020 and a decision on the status of the application is expected in December 2020.

Occupational Therapy Lab Renovation

After more than 20 years of use, the occupational therapy lab, located on the first floor of the Health Sciences Center, will undergo a much needed renovation during the Spring 2021 semester. The project includes sectioning off areas to facilitate greater access to the lab by students and faculty throughout the day. Technology upgrades, a newly designed ADL apartment area, and a conference room / library will be among the changes that will supplement the current teaching area and makers space.

Occupational Therapy Alumni and Program Supporter Outreach

A renewed commitment to alumni relations and outreach is among the many goals of the Division’s strategic plan. Current initiatives include a virtual happy hour (occurring the first Thursday of each month), Division sponsored continuing education, a quarterly newsletter and annual report, and AOTA Conference social events. Those interested in participating can contact SueAnn Woods.

For more information on the WVU Division of Occupational Therapy, visit our website, follow us on facebook, or send us an email. We look forward to hearing from you! 

Let's Go Mountaineers!

Steven Wheeler, Ph.D., OTR/L

Professor & Chairman