Author Archives: Rachel LeBeau

Nick Reed, Associate Professor, awarded tenure

Photo of Prof. Nick ReedThe department of occupational science and occupational therapy is pleased to announce that Nick Reed has been awarded tenure, effective July 1, 2023.

 

Prof. Reed joined the department in 2019 as an associate professor and currently leads the OAK Concussion Lab, which explores concussion outcomes, advocacy and knowledge. Prof. Reed’s work focuses on developing, delivering and evaluating research, educational and clinical programming specific to youth and concussion.

 

Recently, Prof. Reed was awarded the Dr. Dina Brooks Award for Continuing/Sustained Excellence in Graduate Student Supervision and Mentorship from the Rehabilitation Sciences Institute at the University of Toronto for his dedication to enhancing graduate student learning.

 

Congratulations, Nick, on this major milestone achievement in your academic career! We are proud to have you as part of our faculty.

Alumni Spotlight: Elizabeth Pezzutto (Class of 2022)

image of Elizabeth Pezzutto

What inspired you to pursue a career in occupational therapy? 

I was attracted to how occupational therapists recognize the importance of considering all domains of health in the promotion of health and well-being. I previously worked in clinical settings as an assistant and my favourite part was watching patients improve and eventually meet their goals to participate in activities that were meaningful to them. I knew that this was the essence of occupational therapy, and this inspired me to work in a profession that directly and meaningfully impacts people.  

 

What have you been doing since graduation?  

I am currently working in acute care as an occupational therapist at Grand River Hospital in Kitchener, Ontario. I work on various units including medicine, surgery, stroke and the emergency department. I have also continued to work on my graduate research project. My project is a sub-study under a national study which explores the roles that occupational therapists can play in advance care planning conversations.  

 

What were some of the most valuable skills and knowledge that you gained during the program, and how have you applied them in your work? 

The program helped me to further develop two valuable skills; problem-solving and critical thinking. There is no one-size-fits all solution for the clients I work with. In order to enable my clients to achieve their goals, I need to figure out strategies that are unique to each patient’s characteristics, needs and circumstances. 

 

What will you remember most about your time in the program? 

A major highlight of my journey was meeting so many wonderful, like-minded people who are passionate about positively impacting the lives of people. This includes my peers and the other health professionals I had the opportunity to work with on my placements. I learned a great deal from them and I am grateful for the lifelong friends I’ve made throughout my time in the program.   

 

What advice do you have for incoming students? 

There are so many avenues you can take as an occupational therapist. You can work in hospitals, schools, insurance, government, non-profit organizations, mental health, community settings, technology and so many more! Do not limit yourself to only thinking that occupational therapists work in traditional clinical settings. There are so many ways you can apply the skills and knowledge you gain throughout the program to positively impact individuals, communities and populations.   

 

Photo credit: Julia Soudat

In Memoriam: Patti Fleury

 

Alumna Patti Fleury (seated, at centre) was among the first group of alumni members of Governing Council, pictured in 1972. (Photo: Robert Lansdale Photography)
Alumna Patti Fleury (seated, at centre) was among the first group of alumni members of Governing Council, pictured in 1972. (Photo: Robert Lansdale Photography)

 

It is with great sadness that we mourn the passing of Patti Fleury (Philip), an alumna of the Physical and Occupational Therapy program at the University of Toronto.

 

After receiving her diploma in Physical and Occupational Therapy in 1958, Patti remained involved with the university and was among the first ever group of alumni to join U of T’s Governing Council in 1972. She served as an alumni governor from 1972 to 1978, serving on the Academic Board from 1973 to 1976 and on the Planning and Budget Committee from 1975 to 1978.

 

Patti was committed to advancing the interests of U of T’s students and alumni and was an active member of the U of T Alumni Association from 1968 to 1979.

 

Patti advocated for the Physical and Occupational Therapy program to become a degree program and in 1982, she graduated from U of T with a Bachelor of Science in Occupational Therapy.

 

“Patti displayed unwavering passion for her career, and she will be remembered for her impact on the rehab sciences programs at U of T, paving the way for students today and tomorrow,” says Mary Forhan, Chair of the Department of Occupational Science & Occupational Therapy.

 

The departments of Occupational Science & Occupational Therapy and Physical Therapy extend their condolences to Patti’s friends and family, as well as her former classmates and colleagues.

 

Physical and Occupational Therapy Class of 1958 class photo. Graduation photo of P.L. Philip from 1958

Announcing New Faculty Member in the Department of OS&OT

The Department of Occupational Science & Occupational Therapy is excited to welcome Linna Tam-Seto as an Assistant Professor, Community and Global Mental Health starting July 2023.

 

Prof. Tam-Seto is a registered occupational therapist and has experience working in child, adolescent and family mental health and supporting evidence-based professional practice. She received a Ph.D in Rehabilitation Science from Queen’s University. Her research interests include understanding the health and well-being of Canada’s military members, veterans, public safety personnel and their families with a focus on life transitions and changes.