Indiana Wesleyan University Celebrates the Achievements of Occupational Therapy Doctorate Graduates
Indiana Wesleyan University (IWU) is proud to announce recent accomplishments of three occupational therapy doctorate program graduates, highlighting their impactful capstone projects and contributions to the field of occupational therapy. Under the guidance and mentorship of Dr. Rachel Timmons, Doctoral Capstone Coordinator and various faculty mentors, these graduates have demonstrated excellence and innovation in their respective areas of focus.
Dr. Jessica Englehart completed her doctoral capstone project with the Allen Cognitive Network, a respected non-profit organization with an international membership base. Dr. Englehart successfully coordinated and executed a virtual symposium, which included obtaining Approved Provider Status through the American Occupational Therapy Association to offer continuing education. Her efforts attracted participants from across the United States and several other countries, underscoring the national and international impact of application of the cognitive disabilities model across practice settings. Dr. Englehart shared her knowledge with the attendees by presenting a short course geared towards fieldwork students, as well as a lunch and learn roundtable discussion. Additionally, Dr. Englehart earned the Certified Dementia Practitioner (CDP) designation, signifying her commitment to excellence in dementia care. Dr. Englehart’s achievements demonstrate her passion for advancing the understanding and application of the cognitive disabilities model in occupational therapy. Dr. Alyssa Ford, Assistant Professor of Occupational Therapy at Indiana Wesleyan University and President of the Board of Directors of the Allen Cognitive Network stated, “It was an absolute pleasure having Dr. Englehart complete her doctoral capstone project with the Allen Cognitive Network. She grew in her administration skills and understanding of the cognitive disabilities model. I’m proud of how she contributed to the profession and the organization.”
Dr. Arlina Claire focused her doctoral capstone project on occupational therapy’s role in home modifications in collaboration with CICOA Aging & In-Home Solutions. CICOA is dedicated to empowering older adults, individuals with disabilities, and caregivers through comprehensive services and support. Dr. Claire’s project emphasized the importance of adapting living environments to enhance safety and independence. Her efforts have had a significant local impact within Central Indiana, and she achieved the Certified Aging in Place (CAPS) designation.
Dr. Mckenzey King developed and executed a fall prevention program at The Wellness Center in Marion, IN, as part of her doctoral capstone project. Her 8-week program targeted community-based older adults and achieved remarkable success, with over 50 participants. The program received positive feedback, and participants experienced significant improvements that reduced their risk of falls. Dr. King’s work exemplifies the local impact of dedicated occupational therapy interventions.
The achievement of these graduates reflects the high standards of IWU’s occupational therapy doctorate program and the dedication of its esteemed faculty. Dr. Rachel Timmons stated, “We appreciate the creative and critical cognitive approach to occupational therapy and want to recognize the local, state, national, and international impact of their projects. It’s exciting to be part of a program with innovative students who strive for excellence.”
IWU offers a unique experience in their Doctor of Occupational Therapy with access to state-of-the-art facilities, campus life, experienced and diverse faculty, and opportunities to travel cross-culturally during the program. For more information about studying in the occupational therapy doctoral program at IWU, visit https://www.indwes.edu/adult-graduate/programs/doctorate-of-occupational-therapy/ or contact Laura Marine, Graduate Admissions Counselor, at laura.marine@indwes.edu.
