Second Class of Occupational Therapists Graduate from School of Health Sciences
Emory & Henry College School of Health Sciences graduated its second class of students with a master’s degree in Occupational Therapy (MOT) at the Lincoln Theatre on Saturday, Dec. 14 in downtown Marion. The 33 students hail from six states and plan to practice in various areas of the country.
“I am very proud of our Master’s of Occupational Therapy Program and this Class of 2019. We have outstanding faculty and staff that provide such a rich learning experience for our students,” said Lou Fincher, Vice President of the School of Health Sciences at Emory & Henry. “I have no doubt that the members of the MOT Class of 2019 are going to make a meaningful impact on the lives of their patients. I am especially proud of these students’ significant achievements in the area of community service in support of this region.”
Many students have already accepted jobs in Tennessee, Virginia, South Carolina, North Carolina and West Virginia. Others are looking for specific locations to relocate.
During their 27 short months at the College, students have worked on community service projects that demonstrate the significant level of engagement in the community. Projects included: Children’s Assistive Technology Services (CATS); WASPS Foster Mentoring; Mental Health First Aid; Plogging; VFW Open House; Smyth County Special Games; 5k Race for J; First United Methodist Church Food Pantry; Loaves and Fishes Food Pantry (Chilhowie); Parent’s Night Out - Kidz At Play Therapy; After School Program - First Baptist Church; Senior Social - Francis Marion Manor; Wellness Center Swimming; Community Health and Wellness Day; and Summer Enrichment Camp.
“I am extremely proud of the MOT faculty and staff,” said Fincher. “The quality of the program they have built and the difference they are making in the lives of our students, which in turn results in our students making a real difference in the lives of their patients - both in this region and beyond. The MOT students’ level of community engagement in Marion and Smyth County is a great example of the E&H mission in action.”
Jake Schrum, who is the 21st president of Emory & Henry College and helped form the School of Health Sciences, was the commencement speaker.
Open gallery
I have no doubt that the members of the MOT Class of 2019 are going to make a meaningful impact on the lives of their patients. I am especially proud of these students’ significant achievements in the area of community service in support of this region.
-Lou Fincher