Misericordia Occupational Therapy Department

01/22/2026

Doctoral capstone students finished their academic classes in December by experiencing the impact they have had on others as friends, leaders, and supporters.

In Dr. Karen Weis’ Interdisciplinary Education  and Leadership class, students anonymously validated… “You are someone who truly embodies a spirit of gratitude” “You are someone who has given me things to think about,”  “You are someone who is a champion for those who need a voice,” and “You are someone who helps me see a different perspective.”

Together, they are going to have an amazing impact on this community and the OT profession through their capstone projects that are in full swing right now their and future work!

01/20/2026

01/19/2026

Calling all Misericordia OT students 🩺✨
Join us for an 8-week workshop series for healthcare students exploring how the Sisters of Mercy values—mercy, service, justice, and hospitality—can guide your future practice.
📅 Feb 18–April 15, 2026
📍 Bevevino Library | McGowan Room
Come reflect, connect, and grow as a compassionate healthcare provider.

01/18/2026

‼️Spots Still Available!!!‼️

🍴 Introducing “Tasting Together” – A Social Group for Autistic Students! 🍴

Do you know a student who loves food and wants to build social skills? “Tasting Together” is a weekly program designed for local autistic students to connect through a shared interest: food!

👥 What’s Included?
Learn and practice social participation skills (initiating/responding, emotional regulation, collaboration)
Prepare simple, tasty after-school snacks and meals
Build friendships and confidence while exploring easy recipes to enjoy with family and friends

📅 When: Mondays, Jan 19 – Apr 13, 2026 | 4:00 PM
📍 Where: Misericordia University OPT Building
Leader: OT Doctoral Candidate, Morgan Gayton, under the supervision of an OTR
Eligibility:
Ages 9–15
Diagnosis of autism or sensory processing disorder
Reads/Writes/Speaks English
Reliable transportation to/from Misericordia University
✅ Benefits:
Social engagement and skill-building
Kitchen safety and food prep knowledge
Strengthened social confidence
⚠️ Risks: General kitchen-related injuries
📩 Interested? Contact Morgan Gayton:
📧 gaytonm@misericordia.edu
📞 570-991-8187
Please include your name, your child’s name, and your contact info.

✨ Let’s make connections—one recipe at a time! ✨

01/12/2026

👀🔎 Looking for FREE OT services for you or someone you know? 👀 🔎

Check out a few of the groups that are running on campus this semester! If you have any questions about these services, please reach out to the contact person listed on each flyer or the OT Department Chair Dr. Lori Charney lcharney@misericordia.edu 📧

01/07/2026

Calling All Employers!

Do you employ a Misericordia University Occupational Therapy graduate?

We value your feedback!

Please take a few minutes to complete our Employer Survey. Your input helps us measure program outcomes, meet accreditation requirements, and improve the preparedness of future graduates.
👉 https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/CZPQJTY

Thank you for supporting excellence in occupational therapy education!

01/06/2026

Proud to see Misericordia University partner with the Dallas Township Police Department to launch the Blue Envelope Program 💙🚔—an important step toward safer, more inclusive interactions for autistic and neurodiverse drivers.

This thoughtful initiative helps reduce anxiety, improve communication, and prevent misunderstandings during traffic stops, reflecting our shared commitment to understanding, dignity, and community well-being.

I’m especially proud of our students who helped advance this meaningful work through outreach and advocacy.

12/15/2025

🌟 Congratulations BS in OS Class of 2025! 🌟

This weekend we celebrated the BS in OS Class of 2025 with a pinning ceremony on Saturday evening and graduation on Sunday afternoon.

The MUOT faculty are incredibly proud of all that you have accomplished so far and cannot wait to see you continue to excel in the graduate phase of the program! 💙💛

12/10/2025

📢 Breaking Barriers in Bariatric Care!

Hello! My name is Morgan Lapshanski, a doctoral student in the Occupational Therapy department at Misericordia University. I’m excited to invite healthcare students at Misericordia to join my educational workshop series focused on providing quality care to the bariatric population.

✅ What’s included?
12 online, asynchronous educational videos
Pre- and post-tests to measure learning
Topics: safe-patient handling, weight-bias, and inclusive language
This is a great opportunity to build your skills and foster a safe, welcoming environment for all patients!

📌 Register https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfhAlr2hcL4hp9byGj3oq3_WeolkF10WEqCxGqMxP5pzWApaw/viewform?usp=header

📧 Questions? Contact me at lapshanm@misericordia.edu or 908-674-2765

12/08/2025

🌟 Introducing Rheumatic Resilience! 🌟

Hi everyone! My name is Shannon O’Donnell, an occupational therapy doctoral student at Misericordia University. I’m excited to offer a FREE 10-week, evidence-based educational program designed for young adults (ages 18–30) living with rheumatic conditions.

This program will help you:
✅ Build health-promoting habits and routines
✅ Learn strategies for joint protection & energy conservation
✅ Explore pain management techniques
✅ Improve sleep, nutrition, and overall well-being
✅ Connect with others who share similar experiences

📍 Location: Misericordia University, OPT Building
📅 Dates: January 20 – March 24, 2026
🕔 Time: Tuesdays, 5–6 PM

Ready to join?
Contact me at (570) 690-8716 or odonnes1@misericordia.edu to sign up!

Let’s work together to build knowledge, confidence, and a healthier routine. 💪

12/07/2025

🐴 Unique Opportunity for Stroke Survivors🐴

Are you an adult stroke survivor looking for a unique way to support your recovery? Join our Therapeutic Horseback Riding or Equine-Assisted Services Program in Bangor, PA! The program is offered by Jenn Lomastro, owner of Fellowship Equestrian Services and PATH-trained therapeutic riding instructor, and Caity Balestrini, a graduate occupational therapy student at Misericordia University.

✅ What’s included?
Individualized equine-assisted services
Therapeutic horseback riding at a reduced cost
Focus on strength, range of motion, and quality of life.

📅 Dates: January 22 – April 9, 2026
🕛 Time: Thursdays, 12:00 PM – 6:00 PM
📍 Location: Fellowship Equestrian Services, Bangor, PA

Limited spots are available! Recruitment ends January 10, 2026.

📧 To sign up contact:
Caity Balestrini: balestrc@misericordia.edu | 484-634-2525
Dr. Kathleen Hughes-Butcher: kbutcher@misericordia.edu | 570-674-8180

12/06/2025

🌱 Embrace the Green Thumb! 🌱

Are you recovering from a stroke that occurred 6+ months ago? Looking for a way to regain independence and confidence while doing something meaningful?

Join our FREE 10-week chronic stroke recovery program at Misericordia University Occupational Therapy!

✅ 10 group gardening sessions to build strength, coordination, and safe movement
✅ 9 individual sessions tailored to your goals
✅ A binder full of strategies and skills you develop
✅ Fun, hands-on activities like planting, garden bed creation, and more!

📍 Location: Misericordia University Campus
📅 Starting January 2026

Ready to get back to the things you love?
Scan the QR code on the flyer or sign up here:

https://forms.gle/unSCvHxXtTkY8p72A

📧 Contact Brianna Padovano at padovanb@misericordia.edu or (908) 331-5049
Let’s grow together—one step at a time! 🌿