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Summer Newsletter 2025

Summer 2025

Message from the Chair

Summer is in full swing, the Spring 2025 semester is behind us, and a new academic year is just around the corner.

Before we dive into what’s next, we’re excited to share this edition of our Summer Newsletter — a celebration of recent accomplishments and inspiring stories from across our department.

In this issue, we highlight our presence at the American Occupational Therapy Association (AOTA) 2025 Inspire Annual Conference, held right here in Philadelphia — just steps from our Center City campus. It was a meaningful opportunity to connect, learn and showcase the innovative work of our faculty, students and alumni.

We also shine a light on two essential members of our community — Anita Quain and Kathy DeClerico — whose dedication keeps four occupational therapy programs running smoothly across two campuses. You’ll also meet Dr. Nicole Gerhardt, our Research Therapy Manager and a valued adjunct faculty member in the Post-Professional Occupational Therapy Doctorate (PP-OTD) program.

Our students continue to inspire us with their passion and diverse experiences. In this edition, we feature four exceptional students on their journeys to becoming occupational therapy practitioners. You’ll also read about a first-year Master of Science in Occupational Therapy (MSOT) student who participated in a Cultural Exchange Program at Kitasato University in Japan, as well as a long-standing interprofessional collaboration between occupational therapy and industrial design students.

Wishing you a summer that’s both productive and rejuvenating!

Catherine Verrier Piersol, PhD, OTR/L, FAOTA, FNAP

Professor and Chair, Department of Occupational Therapy

AOTA 2025 Inspire Annual Conference

The highly anticipated AOTA Inspire Annual Conference, held in Philadelphia in April, offered a valuable opportunity for Jefferson faculty to network, expand their knowledge and share their work with the broader occupational therapy community.

One of the highlights of the event was Dr. Roseann Schaaf’s presentation of the prestigious Eleanor Clarke Slagle Lecture on Saturday, April 5, 2025. With a hall full of occupational therapy practitioners — and a sea of colleagues, friends and family seated up front — Dr. Schaaf delivered Precision Occupational Therapy Through Data-Driven Decision Making. That evening, the department combined the Slagle Lecture Reception with our Alumni Reception, drawing more than 200 attendees. The result was a vibrant and celebratory gathering of alumni, students, faculty and friends.

We were also proud to recognize several Jefferson faculty members for their professional achievements:

  • Malachy Clancy was inducted into the Roster of Fellows
  • Tina DeAngelis received the Distinguished Fieldwork Educator Award
  • Tracey Vause Earland was inducted into the Roster of Fellows
  • Pamela Talero Cabrejo received the Meritorious Service Award and a Certificate of Appreciation from the American Occupational Therapy Foundation

In total, Jefferson faculty, students and alumni contributed to the conference in impressive ways — delivering six short courses, participating in two invited panels and presenting more than 25 research posters.

Feature: Celebrating Our Administrative Staff

Meet Kathy DeClerico – Center City Campus

By Ella Waddell (OTD, 2027)

Kathy DeClerico serves as the Program Coordinator for the Department of Occupational Therapy on Jefferson’s Center City campus, supporting Chair Dr. Catherine Verrier Piersol. Her Jefferson journey began over six years ago as a temporary administrative worker. “I had been here for a few months and loved the work,” she recalls. 

When a full-time role opened, she knew it was the right fit. Now in her role as Program Coordinator, Kathy manages course scheduling, room reservations and resources for fieldwork and capstone projects. Her adaptability and organizational skills are key to keeping the department running smoothly — especially as responsibilities shift from day to day and semester to semester.

Her promotion from administrative assistant was a natural progression. “Having a clear structure will help with studies, personal life, and achieving that elusive work-life balance,” she advises students. Kathy encourages them to prioritize time management and stay positive.

A standout memory for Kathy was attending her first Class Night celebration. She was deeply moved when students expressed appreciation for the behind-the-scenes work she had done during their time at Jefferson. “It’s heartwarming when they say the little things I’ve done left a lasting impression,” she says. Interacting with students and faculty is one of her favorite parts of the job, especially now that students are back on campus and visiting the department more frequently.

Kathy is also inspired by the forward-thinking research conducted by faculty. “They’re always staying current and integrating that research into their teaching,” she notes. “And they encourage students to do the same.”

Outside of work, Kathy enjoys gardening, planting flowers and spending time with family and friends. She believes in finding joy and balance beyond professional responsibilities. “There are so many things that come across my desk daily,” she says. “Being structured and able to multitask is essential.”

Kathy’s dedication, flexibility and care for both students and faculty make her an essential part of the Jefferson Occupational Therapy (OT) community. Her contributions — both big and small — are appreciated by all.

Meet Anita Quain – East Falls Campus

By Ella Waddell (OTD, 2027)

Anita Quain serves as the administrative assistant for Jefferson College of Rehabilitation Sciences (JCRS) on the East Falls campus, where she supports multiple programs, including the MS in Athletic Training, BS in Exercise Science, AS in Occupational Therapy and MS in Occupational Therapy. With 19 years of dedicated service — 11 at Philadelphia University and 8 at Jefferson following the 2017 merger — Anita is a steady presence and essential support for faculty and students alike.

She began her Jefferson journey in 2006 as an administrative assistant for the MSOT program at what was then Philadelphia University. “PhilaU felt like a cozy campus—everyone knew each other,” she recalls. “Watching it grow over time, with new buildings and expanding programs, was amazing.” She was drawn to the role in part because the campus was close to her Roxborough home, and she quickly became part of a tight-knit and supportive staff community.

Notably, Anita was originally hired by Dr. Piersol, who was the MSOT Program Director at the time. After a brief professional parting when Dr. Piersol moved to Jefferson in 2008, the two reconnected following the merger in 2017.

With more than 50 years of professional experience, Anita has witnessed the evolution of administrative work firsthand — from handwritten invoices to fully digital systems. Her philosophy? “Put yourself out there and get things done.”

When the COVID-19 pandemic shifted Jefferson employees to remote work, Anita leaned on her colleagues for support. “I’ll admit it was tough without the daily moral support of Peg [Quigley] and Lisa [Chiaro],” she says. “We’d try to have Zoom ‘lunch bunches’ whenever possible. They always kept me going.”

In 2021, Anita expanded her responsibilities to include the Department of Exercise Science. When the Associate of Science in Occupational Therapy (ASOT) program was added two years later, she embraced that as well — now supporting all JCRS programs at East Falls. “I report to five different faculty members,” she says with a smile, “and they’re all wonderful and respectful. That makes a big difference.”

A proud Jefferson parent, Anita watched her son graduate from East Falls with degrees in industrial design and occupational therapy. These milestones, along with the many relationships she’s formed, stand out as cherished moments in her career. “My favorite part of the job is seeing students grow and come out of their shells,” she says. “I’m here for the students.”

Outside of work, Anita enjoys traveling, exploring global cuisines and spending time with her children, grandchildren and great-granddaughter. Fun fact: Anita was married twice  and met both partners on blind dates!

As she looks ahead to retirement in July 2027, Anita reflects proudly on her role in supporting Jefferson’s students and faculty. Her warmth, resilience and dedication have left an indelible mark on the East Falls community.

Feature Story: Highlighting Nicole Gerhardt, OTD, OTR/L, CBIS, CPPC

By Ella Waddell (OTD, 2027)

Dr. Nicole Gerhardt serves as the Research Therapy Manager at Jefferson’s Center for Outcomes & Measurement and as an Adjunct Teaching Assistant Professor in the Department of Occupational Therapy. Since joining Jefferson in May 2019, she has contributed across research and academic programs — including earning her PP-OTD in 2022.

As Research Therapy Manager, Dr. Gerhardt supervises research therapists, mentors students and staff, and supports projects across the Jefferson College of Rehabilitation Sciences (JCRS). She also teaches in the Post-Professional Occupational Therapy Doctorate (PP-OTD) program, mentors students in the entry-level program and serves as faculty advisor for Jefferson’s Pi Theta Epsilon chapter. She values the variety of her role and the opportunity to collaborate with students, research participants and an interdisciplinary team.

Dr. Gerhardt’s passion centers on neurorehabilitation, particularly with individuals who have spinal cord injuries (SCI) or acquired brain injuries (ABI). Under the leadership of Dr. MJ Mulcahey, she contributes to the development of a performance-based outcome measure designed to assess motor function — from fine motor skills to mobility — across all phases of SCI. This tool is being developed for potential use in clinical trials to more objectively evaluate motor restoration.

Her work also includes pediatric projects, such as adapting existing outcome measures to allow children with cerebral palsy to self-report their functional abilities. Additionally, she has served as a coach for caregivers of stroke survivors, helping them explore solutions through conversation-based support. That work has strengthened her belief in client-driven therapy and the power of empowering both patients and caregivers.

Dr. Gerhardt has also been an interventionist for the Nurosleeve project — an assistive orthosis that enables grasp and release for individuals with upper extremity impairments. She is preparing to support a new study focused on restoring upper extremity function following stroke.

She believes clinicians must understand the evidence behind outcome assessments and interventions. “Students and practitioners should develop a questioning attitude,” she says, encouraging them to seek research that supports their clinical decisions.

Her own clinical journey began in pediatric inpatient rehabilitation, where she treated children with ABI, cancer and orthopedic conditions. “It’s a wonderful setting to develop foundational skills, see quick gains and build strong therapeutic relationships,” she reflects. She later transitioned to post-acute care for adults with ABI, focusing on long-term recovery and helping clients regain independence through both restorative and compensatory strategies. “Occupational therapists working closely with a transdisciplinary team can facilitate community reintegration and independence.”

The COM team takes a hands-on, stakeholder-informed approach — collaborating with both clinicians and people with lived experience to ensure their tools and findings are meaningful in real-world settings.

As an educator, Dr. Gerhardt enjoys guiding students as they develop their research interests. She emphasizes the importance of applying research to practice, encouraging students to stay curious and open to evidence that challenges the status quo. “Students bring a fresh lens to clinical settings,” she says, “and they can spark conversations about best practices that lead to real improvements.”

She reminds students that research and clinical care are not mutually exclusive. “They complement each other,” she says. “Engaging with both can be incredibly fulfilling.”

Meet Our Students

Meet Shayla Hatchett, ASOT Program, East Falls Campus

Shayla Hatchett’s journey to becoming an Occupational Therapy Assistant is one of transformation and purpose.

Originally from New Castle, Delaware, Shayla spent several years in marketing and finance before deciding to follow her passion for health care. That decision led her to Jefferson’s respected ASOT program. Drawn by the University’s strong reputation and the program’s accelerated hybrid format, she found a structure that supported both her career goals and personal life.

“The curriculum offers such a strong foundation in research, clinical and educational experiences that I felt confident in my choice,” she says. The transition wasn’t easy, but Shayla knew she had found the right path. “I knew this school would equip me to be the best OT practitioner.”

What she didn’t expect was how deeply she would fall in love with the field. “Every class is an opportunity to learn something new,” she says. “Fieldwork has been especially valuable — it’s hands-on, creative and incredibly rewarding.”

Outside the classroom, Shayla is an avid runner. She began racing in 2022 and has already won several medals, including one for completing her first half marathon. Now, she’s training for a full marathon — a goal that reflects the same perseverance and drive she brings to her studies.

Shayla’s story is one of growth, resilience and renewed purpose. With each stride forward — whether on the track or in the classroom — she’s preparing to become a compassionate, skilled OTA ready to make a difference.

Meet Eboneak Watson, MSOT Program, East Falls Campus

Eboneak Watson (she/her) is a dedicated student in Jefferson’s Master of Science in Occupational Therapy (MSOT) program. Originally from Wilmington, Delaware, she brings a unique blend of professional experience and personal passion to her studies.

A proud Jefferson employee, Eboneak was inspired to pursue her degree by the university’s mission: We improve lives. That simple, powerful statement resonated deeply with her own values. “It’s a powerful message that reflects the organization’s values,” she shared. With the support of Jefferson’s tuition assistance and employee discount programs, she seized the opportunity to grow within the institution. One of the key factors in her decision? The program’s hybrid format, which offered both flexibility and a forward-thinking approach to learning.

One of the most rewarding aspects of her academic journey has been her clinical fieldwork. “Going out into the field and working alongside my fieldwork educator has given me invaluable, hands-on experience,” she says.

Eboneak is currently working on a Capstone project focused on adolescents with eating disorders—a timely and meaningful topic she looks forward to presenting to her family and peers this summer.

And here’s something you might not expect: Eboneak has a daughter in her mid-twenties and is now earning her third degree. Her path is a powerful testament to lifelong learning and perseverance.

We’re proud to have Eboneak as part of our Jefferson community.

Meet Roesha Thelmon, OTD Program, Center City Campus

Roesha Thelmon, a proud Brooklyn native and Doctorate of Occupational Therapy student, brings a dynamic blend of advocacy, innovation and lived experience to the Jefferson OT community. Her perspective is grounded in her identity as an HBCU alumna and her commitment to advancing equitable care.

“I chose Jefferson because of its expansive network and growing list of partnerships — not just across Philadelphia, but throughout Pennsylvania and beyond,” Roesha shares. “The commitment to reaching underserved communities and supporting diversity really stood out to me.”

What she values most about the program is its flexibility and breadth. “It’s inspiring to see how people from different walks of life find their way to OT,” she explains. “Our varied perspectives enrich how we understand and provide client-centered care. I love how the program encourages creativity and innovation in how we approach the profession.”

Outside the classroom, Roesha is working with faculty to design a capstone and fieldwork experience focused on non-traditional OT practice — an area where she hopes to make lasting impact. While still in the planning stages, she’s energized by the possibilities ahead.

And here’s a fun fact: Roesha once fostered 11 rabbits with her family, helping each one find a loving “fur-ever” home.

With her commitment to service, equity, and reimagining what occupational therapy can be, Roesha is shaping a future in OT that’s as compassionate as it is bold.

Meet Devlynn “Dev” Neu (they/he), Post Professional OTD: Leading Change

Devlynn “Dev” Neu joined Jefferson’s Post-Professional Occupational Therapy Doctorate (PP-OTD) program in Spring 2025. They chose Jefferson not only for its strong reputation in occupational therapy but also for its location — Philadelphia, a historic center of the LGBTQ+ rights movement dating back to the 1930s.

Dev brings rich, multifaceted lived experience to their studies. A first-generation college student from a socioeconomically disadvantaged community, Dev earned a Master of Occupational Therapy in 2018 in upstate New York — close enough to stay connected with family, but far enough to explore their own identity. They identify as queer, non-binary, and disabled — dimensions that deeply inform their perspective and path within the OT profession.

While in OT school, Dev actively sought opportunities to explore their role in supporting LGBTQ+ communities both within and beyond health care. Soon after graduating, they founded The Rainbow OT — originally a passion project that unintentionally became a national touchpoint for LGBTQ+ OT students and practitioners who often felt underrepresented in the field.

Dev has since delivered numerous guest lectures on gender-affirming care (GAC) and founded a free GAC clinic at Ithaca College, where they are concluding their term as a faculty member.

To Dev, gender-affirming care and occupational therapy are inseparable. “Gender-affirming OT simply broadens how we view activities of daily living,” they explain. For example, while OTs might traditionally assist clients with donning and doffing a bra, others may need support learning safe binding or tucking techniques. “Every human deserves the opportunity to experience euphoria and affirmation through their occupations,” Dev adds, noting that this experience is not yet equitably reflected in OT education or practice.

Their advocacy aligns with AOTA’s 2021 ratification of Policy E.15, Affirming Gender Diversity and Identity, which calls on all occupational therapy practitioners to develop competence in meeting the needs of diverse communities across all settings.

So, with so much already accomplished, why pursue a PP-OTD?

“For me, this work is both personal and professional,” Dev shares. “I want to contribute to the science that will move our field forward.” Since stepping into academia, they’ve found deep fulfillment in teaching and are eager to grow as an educator. Their ultimate goal? To establish a clear, evidence-informed path for gender-affirming care in occupational therapy — and Jefferson’s PP-OTD is a key part of making that happen.

Cultural Exchange Program to Kitasato University, Japan: A Student’s Perspective

An Interview with Evelyn Rubino (MSOT 2027)

By Ella Waddell (OTD 2027)

Evelyn Rubino is a first-year student in the Master of Science in Occupational Therapy (MSOT) program on Jefferson’s East Falls campus. Originally from Fleetwood, a small town in Pennsylvania, she earned her bachelor’s degree in neuroscience from Ursinus College. When deciding on a graduate program, Evelyn was drawn to Jefferson’s strong reputation. “The Jefferson name stands out to everyone — it’s a respected school that appealed to me,” she says.

One of her favorite aspects of the MSOT program is the faculty support. “The instructors are especially empathetic. They understand that students have responsibilities outside of school,” she explains. “It’s the first time I’ve felt that recognized.” She also values the program’s hybrid format, which includes in-person meetings every other weekend — a structure that fits well with her introverted nature and preference for independent work. Still, she enjoys engaging with classmates when needed.

Recently, Evelyn took part in Jefferson’s Cultural Exchange Program with Kitasato University in Japan — a learning opportunity that had initially caught her eye while researching OT programs. She spent a week in Japan collaborating with students from around the world and exploring occupational therapy from a global perspective.

Each day was filled with activity — from 9:00am to 4:30pm, Evelyn worked on a cross-cultural, interdisciplinary project focused on comparing healthcare systems. Her team included students from Japan, Italy and Taiwan, representing various disciplines, including occupational therapy, pharmacology and doctoral studies. The afternoons offered a break and time to explore the Kitasato campus.

Evelyn noted striking similarities between OT practice in Japan and the U.S. — such as the emphasis on client-centered care, use of ADL (activities of daily living) gyms and the layout of therapy spaces. One challenge was the language barrier, but by the end of the week, she had become more familiar with different accents and had gained a stronger grasp of Japanese. “It really highlighted how important communication is — especially when working with people from diverse cultural backgrounds.”

Having grown up in a rural community with limited cultural exposure, Evelyn saw the exchange program as an incredible chance to broaden her perspective. Although nervous about applying — and traveling internationally for the first time — she fully embraced the experience. “You can’t get that in the classroom,” she says. “I’ve made lifelong friends and gained a deeper understanding of the world.”

Her advice to other students: “Do it! If you’re looking to experience something beyond the classroom, this is the perfect opportunity.”

The experience has already sparked a new goal — Evelyn hopes to join another exchange program, this time in Morocco. She looks forward to continuing her travels, learning new languages and applying global insights to her future in occupational therapy.

Occupational Therapy-Industrial Design Collaboration Enhances Quality of Life for Area Seniors

Since 1999, students from Jefferson’s occupational therapy and industrial design programs have teamed up to create innovative assistive devices that support independence and improve daily living for older adults.

This long-standing collaboration reflects Jefferson’s commitment to real-world, interdisciplinary learning. Students partner with senior client-educators over the course of the fall and spring semesters—designing, testing and refining personalized tools that make a meaningful difference in everyday life.

A highlight of the project is the annual showcase, where many seniors attend in person to see—and try out—the custom devices created just for them.

Read more about this innovative interprofessional experience.