April 7, 2009 issue
What attracted me to Eastern was the University's commitment to serve
the community and the dedication to social justice. Also, teaching is
valued here. I'm allowed to create learning opportunities that are dynamic
for students. We are fortunate to work with very enthusiastic and creative
students on our campus.
I am delighted to be involved in a collaborative effort with the occupational
therapy program and those in social work, dietetics and nutrition, nursing,
psychology, music therapy and special education to develop a center that
provides multidisciplinary services to individuals who are in the autism
spectrum and their families. Autism is a tremendous concern and is being
identified at epidemic rates. The Autism Collaborative Center will begin
to offer services on campus this summer and will provide many training
opportunities for EMU students to apply in their professional lives.
The occupational therapy program is engaged in community service
projects, with the students and faculty taking part. We
are giving support to the Ronald McDonald House in Detroit.
We also are talking to Habitat for Humanity about the possibility
of building a house. Community service gives students learning opportunities
to see themselves as change agents. It also demonstrates ways that EMU
is supporting the community.
I have a very supportive community among my colleagues in occupational
therapy and in the School of Health Sciences. We strive
to create an excellent learning environment for our students.
We laugh together and enjoy what we do, and it is never
boring! — Contributed by Heather Hamilton
