The UAB Department of Occupational Therapy is proud to share the doctoral capstone projects of its entry-level clinical doctorate in occupational therapy degree (OTD) program students. The program’s inaugural cohort graduated in December 2023.
The doctoral capstone is the culminating experience of the OTD program. It allows students to demonstrate their ability to relate theory to practice and to synthesize in-depth knowledge in a practice or service area in which they have identified an unmet need.
These projects are an opportunity for each student to choose a topic they are passionate about and to manage and deliver a complex scholarly work within a mentored setting. These projects underscore our students’ commitment to scholarly excellence and innovation, as well as their ability to enhance community well-being through their expertise and service.
Class of 2024
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Adults & Older Adults
Taylor Horton Abbott, OTD*
Implementing a Community Choir in a Skilled Nursing Facility
Faculty Mentor: Gavin Jenkins, PhD, OTR/L, ATP
Site Mentor: Julie Langan, OTR/L
Doctoral Capstone Partner: Cordova Health and Rehabilitation*Selected for in-person symposium presentation
Ajah Beatty, OTD
Occupational Performance Assessments Used in Gait Training Protocols with People with Chronic Stroke
Faculty Mentor: Sarah dos Anjos, PhD, OTD, MS, OTR/L
Maggie Campbell, OTD*
Faculty Mentor: Mary Bowman, OTR/L, C/NDT, LSVT-BIG
Doctoral Capstone Partner: Spain Rehabilitation Center
*Selected for in-person symposium presentationSydney Chucran, OTD
Faculty Mentor: K. Megan Carpenter, OTD, OTR/L, SCFES
Site Mentor: Shannon Harvison, COTA
Doctoral Capstone Partner: Regency Retirement VillageLaura-Lin Clark, OTD
Faculty Mentor: Gavin Jenkins, PhD, OTR/L, ATP
Site Mentor: Melissa Turnage
Doctoral Capstone Partner: UAB Arts in Medicine: Episcopal Place of BirminghamKirsten Hubbard, OTD
Faculty Mentor: Beth Barstow, PhD, OTR/L, SCLA, FAOTA
Joanne Parker, OTD
Enhancing Quality of Life Through Exercise in Adults with Intellectual Disabilities
Faculty and Site Mentor: K. Megan Carpenter, OTD, OTR/L, SCFES
Doctoral Capstone Partner: CrossFit LamininMansi Patel, OTD
The Need for a Chronic Pain Management Program in an Outpatient Setting
Faculty Mentor: Valley McCurry, PHD, MBA, OTR/L, FAOTA
Site Mentor: Jamie Wade, MS, CCC-SLP, MSHA, LSSGB
Doctoral Capstone Partner: UAB Medicine Outpatient Rehab ServicesElise Pittman, OTD*
Faculty Mentor: Haley Curry, OTD, OTR/L
Site Mentor: Kim Mills, MS, OTR/L
Doctoral Capstone Partner: Turnberry Assisted Living Facility, Fort Collins, CO*Selected for in-person symposium presentation
Hanna Sartain, OTD
Faculty Mentor: K. Megan Carpenter, OTD, OTR/L, SCFES
Site Mentor: Carolyn Chapura, OTR/L
Doctoral Capstone Partner: The Crossings at Riverchase - Hoover -
Community Interventions
Hiba Ahmed, MBA, OTD
Faculty Mentor: Jewell Dickson-Clayton, OTD, MPH, OTR/L, ATP, FAOTA
Site Mentor: Alaina Pineda, MSHA, MID
Doctoral Capstone Partner: Forge Breast Cancer Survivor CenterMadison Bowen, OTD*
Faculty and Site Mentor: Rachel Ashcraft, MS, OTR/L, TBRI® Practitioner, FAOTA
Doctoral Capstone Partner: Foster the Future Alabama
*Selected for in-person symposium presentationAnna Claire Bullard, OTD
The Creation and Implementation of a Caregiver Readiness Program
Faculty Mentor: Chris Eidson, PhD, OTR/L, and Sarah Tucker, PhD, OTR/L
Site Mentor: Reid Warren, DPT
Doctoral Capstone Partner: UAB Spain Rehabilitation CenterPayton Butler, OTD*
Using Focus Groups in Curriculum Design: Exploring Teachers’ Perspectives of Student Self-Advocacy
Faculty Mentor: Chris Eidson, PhD, OTR/L, FAOTA
Site Mentor: Blake Huynh
Doctoral Capstone Partner: Equip*Selected for in-person symposium presentation
Caroline Christie, OTD
Early Intervention Resource for Families
Faculty Mentor: Rachel Ashcraft, MS, OTR/L, TBRI® Practitioner, FAOTA
Site Mentor: Julia Stanley, MS
Doctoral Capstone Partner: Alabama Institute of Deaf and BlindCheyenne Fulks, OTD*
Sexual Health and Education for Young Adults with Intellectual Disabilities
Faculty Mentor: Sarah Tucker, PhD, OTR/L
Site Mentor: Brian Geiger, EdD, FAAHE
Doctoral Capstone Partner: The Horizons School*Selected for in-person symposium presentation
Katherine Ham, OTD
Medication Management for Young Adults with Intellectual Disabilities
Faculty Mentor: Chris Eidson, PhD, OTR/L, FAOTA
Site Mentor: Brian Geiger, PhD
Doctoral Capstone Partner: The Horizons School*Selected for in-person symposium presentation
Kirsten Hubbard, OTD
Faculty Mentor: Beth Barstow, PhD, OTR/L, SCLA, FAOTA
Tariana Jackson, OTD*
Exploring the Barriers of Physical Activity Among U.S. Veterans at Lakeshore Foundation
Faculty Mentor: Valley McCurry, PhD, MBA, OTR/L, FAOTA
Site Mentor: Ken Gables, MPT
Doctoral Capstone Partner: Lakeshore Foundation*Selected for in-person symposium presentation
Meisi Jacobs, OTD*
Faculty Mentor: Rachel Ashcraft, MS, OTR/L, TBRI® Practitioner
Site Mentor: Amy Elmore, BS, OTR/L
Doctoral Capstone Partner: The Adoption and Foster Care Clinic*Selected for in-person symposium presentation
Mary Catherine Kelly, OTD
Advocating for Leisure-Based Programs for Individuals from Vulnerable Populations
Faculty Mentor: Dr. Hon Yuen, PhD, OTR/L
Anne Mathis, OTD
The Implementation of a Website for Collaboration Between Occupational Therapy and Educators
Faculty Mentor: K. Megan Carpenter, OTD, OTR/L, SCFES
Site Mentor: Sandra Groger, OTD, OTR/L
Doctoral Capstone Partner: Limestone County School SystemDeja Motley, OTD*
Faculty Mentor: Mary Bowman, OTR/L, C/NDT, LSVT-BIG
Site Mentor: Bethany Leonard, LMSW
Doctoral Capstone Partner: Alabama Head Injury Foundation*Selected for in-person symposium presentation
Sarah Nguyen, OTD*
Faculty Mentor: Sarah dos Anjos, PhD, OTD, MS, OTR/L
Site Mentor: Alec Coffman
Doctoral Capstone Partner: The Exceptional Foundation*Selected for in-person symposium presentation
Christy Pheal, OTD*
Trauma and Developmental Disabilities in a Preschool Setting
Faculty Mentor: Rachel Ashcraft, MS, OTR/L, TBRI® Practitioner, FAOTA
Site Mentor: Ashley Dees, MS, OTR/L
Doctoral Capstone Partner: The Burkett Center*Selected for in-person symposium presentation
Katie Beth Sharp, OTD
Creation and Implementation of a Disability-Inclusive Children’s Literature Database
Faculty Mentor: K. Megan Carpenter, OTD, OTR/L, SCFES
Kayla Simpkins, OTD
Building Trauma-Informed Communities: The Effect of Occupational Therapy in the Pre-Adoptive Phase
Faculty Mentor: Rachel Ashcraft, MS, OTR/L, TBRI® Practitioner, FAOTA
Site Mentor: Caron Sandefur, LICSW-S PIP
Doctoral Capstone Partner: Children’s Aid SocietyOlivia Stubblefield, OTD
Faculty Mentor: Hon Yuen, PhD, OTR/L
Site Mentor: Debbie Jerome, OTR/L
Doctoral Capstone Partner: Beyond Limits Pediatric Therapy CenterHaley Walden, OTD*
Faculty Mentor: Mary Bowman, OTR/L, C/NDT, LSVT-BIG
Site Mentor: Alex X. Martínez, M.Ed.
Doctoral Capstone Partner: National Center on Health, Physical Activity and Disability*Selected for in-person symposium presentation
Elyse Young, OTD*
Development of a Self-Care Training for Youth Transitioning from Foster Care
Faculty Mentor: Rachel Ashcraft, MS, OTR/L, TBRI® Practitioner, FAOTA
Site Mentor: Caron Sandefur, LICSW-S PIP
Doctoral Capstone Partner: Children’s Aid Society of Alabama*Selected for in-person symposium presentation
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Creative Occupations/Arts in Medicine
Taylor Horton Abbott, OTD*
Implementing a Community Choir in a Skilled Nursing Facility
Faculty Mentor: Gavin Jenkins, PhD, OTR/L, ATP
Site Mentor: Julie Langan, OTR/L
Doctoral Capstone Partner: Cordova Health and Rehabilitation*Selected for in-person symposium presentation
Lauren Jackson, OTD*
Faculty Mentor: Sarah Tucker, PhD, OTR/L
Site Mentor: LaCrecia Day
Doctoral Capstone Partner: Offender Alumni Association*Selected for in-person symposium presentation
Laura Brown, OTD*
The Effect of Creative Occupation Implementation to Reduce Stress in Unsheltered Women
Faculty Mentor: Jewell Dickson-Clayton, OTD, MPH, OTR/L, ATP, FAOTA
Site Mentor: Bailey Real, MSW
Doctoral Capstone Partner: Pathways Home*Selected for in-person symposium presentation
Laura-Lin Clark, OTD
Faculty Mentor: Gavin Jenkins, PhD, OTR/L, ATP
Site Mentor: Melissa Turnage
Doctoral Capstone Partner: UAB Arts in Medicine, Episcopal Place of Birmingham -
Mental Health
Laura Brown, OTD*
The Effect of Creative Occupation Implementation to Reduce Stress in Unsheltered Women
Faculty Mentor: Jewell Dickson-Clayton, OTD, MPH, OTR/L, ATP, FAOTA
Site Mentor: Bailey Real, MSW
Doctoral Capstone Partner: Pathways Home*Selected for in-person symposium presentation
Kallie Luann Hester, OTD*
Faculty Mentor: Rachel Ashcraft, MS, OTR/L, TBRI® Practitioner, FAOTA
*Selected for in-person symposium presentation
Asia Hollinger, OTD*
Faculty Mentor: Sarah C. Tucker, PhD, OTR/L
Site Mentor: Elizabeth Peters, MD
Doctoral Capstone Partner: Mayfair Medical Group*Selected for in-person symposium presentation
Lauren Jackson, OTD*
Faculty Mentor: Sarah Tucker, PhD, OTR/L
Site Mentor: LaCrecia Day
Doctoral Capstone Partner: Offender Alumni Association*Selected for in-person symposium presentation
Nike Sumler, OTD
In Collegiate Athletes Does Mental Health Influence Occupational Performance?
Faculty Mentor: Valley McCurry, PhD, MBA, OTR/L
Site Mentor: Dan Springer MAEd, LAT, ATC
Doctoral Capstone Partner: University of Alabama at Birmingham Men’s Football Team -
Low Vision Rehabilitation
Ermanuel Bautista, OTD*
Developing a Low-Vision Community Access and Travel Kit for Individuals with Diabetic Retinopathy
Faculty and Site Mentor: Jason Vice, PhD, OTR/L, SCLV
Doctoral Capstone Partner: UAB Center for Low Vision Rehabilitation*Selected for in-person symposium presentation
Lauryn F. Bower, OTD*
Faculty Mentor: Beth Barstow, PhD, OTR/L, SCLV, FAOTA
Site Mentor: Nicole Holley
Doctoral Capstone Partner: Alabama Institute for the Deaf and Blind*Selected for in-person symposium presentation
Eddie Ford, OTD*
Faculty Mentor: Jason Vice, PhD, OTR/L, SCLV
*Selected for in-person symposium presentation
Rebekah Magnusson, OTD
Faculty Mentor: Jason Vice, PhD, OTR/L, SCLV
Site Mentor: Matthew Haynes
Doctoral Capstone Partner: Alabama Department of Rehabilitation Services -
Pediatrics
Lauryn F. Bower, OTD*
Faculty Mentor: Beth Barstow, PhD, OTR/L, SCLV, FAOTA
Site Mentor: Nicole Holley
Doctoral Capstone Partner: Alabama Institute for the Deaf and Blind*Selected for in-person symposium presentation
Caroline Christie, OTD
Early Intervention Resource for Families
Faculty Mentor: Rachel Ashcraft, MS, OTR/L, TBRI® Practitioner, FAOTA
Site Mentor: Julia Stanley, MS
Doctoral Capstone Partner: Alabama Institute for the Deaf and BlindLindsey Engles, OTD
Faculty Mentor: K. Megan Carpenter, OTD, OTR/L, SCFES
Site Mentor: Grace Daigle Turbville, OTR/L
Doctoral Capstone Partner: Mitchell’s PlacePayton Morris, OTD*
Understanding the Lived Experience of Caregivers for Children with a Traumatic Brain Injury
Faculty Mentor: Sarah C. Tucker, PhD, OTR/L
Site Mentor: Scott Powell
Doctoral Capstone Partner: Alabama Head Injury Foundation*Selected for in-person symposium presentation
Lauren Muller, OTD
Faculty Mentor: Deek Cunningham, PhD, OTR/L, FAOTA
Site Mentor: Jan Rowe, Dr. OT, OTR/L, FAOTA
Doctoral Capstone Partner: Children’s of Alabama/UAB Tourette Syndrome Center of ExcellenceJohn Brandon Osborn, OTD*
Faculty Mentor: Chris Eidson, PhD, OTR/L, FAOTA
*Selected for in-person symposium presentation
Katelyn Perry, OTD*
Faculty Mentor: Sarah dos Anjos, PhD, OTD, MS, OTR/L
*Selected for in-person symposium presentation
Christy Pheal, OTD*
Trauma and Developmental Disabilities in a Preschool Setting
Faculty Mentor: Rachel Ashcraft, MS, OTR/L, TBRI® Practitioner, FAOTA
Site Mentor: Ashley Dees, MS, OTR/L
Doctoral Capstone Partner: The Burkett Center*Selected for in-person symposium presentation
Raquel Scherlis, OTD
Brain Builders: Developing a Preschool Curriculum for Outdoor Learning at The Red Barn
Faculty Mentor: Deek Cunningham, PhD, OTR/L, FAOTA
Site Mentor: Ellen Davis, MS, OTR/L
Doctoral Capstone Partner: The Red BarnKatie Beth Sharp, OTD
Creation and Implementation of a Disability-Inclusive Children’s Literature Database
Faculty Mentor: K. Megan Carpenter, OTD, OTR/L, SCFES
Erin Smith, OTD
Faculty Mentor: Rachel Ashcraft, MS, OTR/L, TBRI® Practitioner, FAOTA
Site Mentor: Caroline Favrot, MS, OTR/L
Doctoral Capstone Partner: Child’s Play Therapy CenterOlivia Stubblefield, OTD
Faculty Mentor: Hon Yuen, PhD, OTR/L
Site Mentor: Debbie Jerome, OTR/L
Doctoral Capstone Partner: Beyond Limits Pediatric Therapy CenterMargaret Winters, OTD
Faculty Mentor: Areum Han, PhD, OTR/L
Site Mentor: Emily Wheat
Doctoral Capstone Partner: The Exceptional Foundation*Selected for in-person symposium presentation
Kelsey Wyatt-Fisher, OTD
Faculty Mentor: Deek Cunningham, PhD, OTR/L, FAOTA
Site Mentor: Jan Rowe, Dr. OT, OTR/L FAOTA
Doctoral Capstone Partner: Children’s of Alabama/UAB Tourette Syndrome Center of ExcellenceElyse Young, OTD*
Development of a Self-Care Training for Youth Transitioning from Foster Care
Faculty Mentor: Rachel Ashcraft, MS, OTR/L, TBRI® Practitioner, FAOTA
Site Mentor: Caron Sandefur, LICSW-S PIP
Doctoral Capstone Partner: Children’s Aid Society of Alabama*Selected for in-person symposium presentation
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Research
Ajah Beatty, OTD
Occupational Performance Assessments Used in Gait Training Protocols with People with Chronic Stroke
Faculty Mentor: Sarah dos Anjos, PhD, OTD, MS, OTR/L
Ashley Blair, OTD*
Faculty Mentor: Sarah Tucker, PhD, OTR/L
*Selected for in-person symposium presentation
Rachelle Brown, OTD
Faculty Mentor: Mary Bowman, OTR/L, C/NDT, LSVT-BIG
Site Mentor: Mary Bowman, OTR/L, C/NDT, LSVT-BIG
Doctoral Capstone Partner: UAB Neuroplasticity Rehabilitation ClinicRae Brown, OTD
Faculty Mentor: Brooks Wingo, PhD
Doctoral Capstone Partner: UAB Department of Neurology and Department of Occupational TherapyCaitlyn Caffee, OTD*
Faculty Mentor: Sarah dos Anjos, PhD, OTD, MS, OTR/L
*Selected for in-person symposium presentation
Caroline Christie, OTD
Early Intervention Resource for Families
Faculty Mentor: Rachel Ashcraft, MS, OTR/L, TBRI® Practitioner, FAOTA
Site Mentor: Julia Stanley, MS
Doctoral Capstone Partner: Alabama Institute for the Deaf and BlindSydney Chucran, OTD
Faculty Mentor: K. Megan Carpenter, OTD, OTR/L, SCFES
Site Mentor: Shannon Harvison, COTA
Doctoral Capstone Partner: Regency Retirement VillageLindsey Engles, OTD
Faculty Mentor: K. Megan Carpenter, OTD, OTR/L, SCFES
Site Mentor: Grace Daigle Turbville, OTR/L
Doctoral Capstone Partner: Mitchell’s PlaceAshlinn Garner, OTD*
The Physiological Effect of Animal-Assisted Therapy in Inpatient Rehabilitation
Faculty Mentor: Mary Bowman, OTR/L, C/NDT, LSVT-BIG
Site Mentor: Stephanie Stoltzner
Doctoral Capstone Partner: Hand in Paw*Selected for in-person symposium presentation
Tariana Jackson, OTD*
Exploring the Barriers of Physical Activity Among U.S. Veterans at Lakeshore Foundation
Faculty Mentor: Valley McCurry, PhD, MBA, OTR/L, FAOTA
Site Mentor: Ken Gables, MPT
Doctoral Capstone Partner: Lakeshore Foundation*Selected for in-person symposium presentation
Allie Hughes, OTD
Exploring the Lived Experiences of Parents Who Have Adopted a Child
Faculty Mentor: Areum Han, PhD, OTR/L
Site Mentor: Caron Sandefur, LICSW-S PIP
Doctoral Capstone Partner: Children’s Aid Society of AlabamaHannah Keough, MS, OTD*
Faculty Mentor: Mary Bowman, OTR/L, C/NDT, LSVT-BIG
Site Mentor: Byron Lai, MS, PhD
Doctoral Capstone Partner: UAB Center for Engagement in Disability Health and Rehabilitation Sciences Active Video Gaming and Virtual Reality Lab*Selected for in-person symposium presentation
Mary Phyfer Metzger, OTD*
Faculty Mentor: Sarah dos Anjos, PhD, OTD, MS, OTR/L
*Selected for in-person symposium presentation
Payton Morris, OTD*
Understanding the Lived Experience of Caregivers for Children with a Traumatic Brain Injury
Faculty Mentor: Sarah C. Tucker, PhD, OTR/L
Site Mentor: Scott Powell
Doctoral Capstone Partner: Alabama Head Injury Foundation*Selected for in-person symposium presentation
Lauren Muller, OTD
Faculty Mentor: Deek Cunningham, PhD, OTR/L, FAOTA
Site Mentor: Jan Rowe, Dr. OT, OTR/L, FAOTA
Doctoral Capstone Partner: Children’s of Alabama/UAB Tourette Syndrome Center of ExcellenceJohn Brandon Osborn, OTD*
Faculty Mentor: Chris Eidson, PhD, OTR/L, FAOTA
*Selected for in-person symposium presentation
Sheree Padgett, OTD
The Importance of the Environment as it Relates to Occupational Performance
Faculty Mentor: Gavin Jenkins, PhD, OTR/L, ATP
Site Mentor: Lisa Parnell, MSOT, OTR/L, SHSS, CLT-ALM, CWT, UDN-C, DAPWCA
Doctoral Capstone Partner: My Life Rehab and WellnessJoanne Parker, OTD
Enhancing Quality of Life Through Exercise in Adults with Intellectual Disabilities
Faculty and Site Mentor: K. Megan Carpenter, OTD, OTR/L, SCFES
Doctoral Capstone Partner: CrossFit LamininKatelyn Perry, OTD*
Faculty Mentor: Sarah dos Anjos, PhD, OTD, MS, OTR/L
*Selected for in-person symposium presentation
Hanna Sartain, OTD
Faculty Mentor: K. Megan Carpenter, OTD, OTR/L, SCFES
Site Mentor: Carolyn Chapura, OTR/L
Doctoral Capstone Partner: The Crossings at Riverchase – HooversmithErin Smith, OTD
Faculty Mentor: Rachel Ashcraft, MS, OTR/L, TBRI® Practitioner, FAOTA
Site Mentor: Caroline Favrot, MS, OTR/L
Doctoral Capstone Partner: Child’s Play Therapy CenterTyra Thomas, OTD*
Faculty Mentor: Dr. Jewell Dickson-Clayton, OTD, MPH, OTR/L, ATP, FAOTA
*Selected for in-person symposium presentation
Margaret Winters, OTD
Faculty Mentor: Areum Han, PhD, OTR/L
Site Mentor: Emily Wheat
Doctoral Capstone Partner: The Exceptional Foundation*Selected for in-person symposium presentation
Kelsey Wyatt-Fisher, OTD
Faculty Mentor: Deek Cunningham, PhD, OTR/L, FAOTA
Site Mentor: Jan Rowe, Dr. OT, OTR/L FAOTA
Doctoral Capstone Partner: Children’s of Alabama/UAB Tourette Syndrome Center of Excellence
Class of 2023
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Adult & Geriatric Topics
Brittany Bell, OTD
Lived Experience of Informal Caregivers of Persons Living with Dementia in Engagement in Leisure, Social, and Self-Care Activities*
Faculty Mentor: Areum Han, PhD, OTR/L
Doctoral Capstone Partner: McCoy Adult Daycare
Site Mentor: Vivian Story, MSW*Selected for in-person symposium presentation
Megan Brooks, OTD
Increasing Movement and Exercise in Geriatric Patients Through Large-Scaled Creative Occupations
Faculty Mentor: Jason Vice, PhD, OTR/L, SCLV
Doctoral Capstone Partner: Crowne Health Care of Mobile
Site Mentor: Marianne Snyman, OTR/L
Amanda Crowell, OTD
Physical Dysfunctions and the Effectiveness of Adaptive Equipment: A Lending Library
Faculty Mentor: Christopher Eidson, PhD, OTR/L, FAOTA
Doctoral Capstone Partner: TherapySouth
Site Mentor: Kramer Hodges, OTR/L, CHT
Jalysia Donaldson, OTD
The Impact of Online Learning Aids on Academic Performance in Undergraduate Students with ADHD
Faculty Mentor: Gavin Jenkins, PHD, OTR/L, ATP
Doctoral Capstone Partner: UAB Disability Support Services
Site Mentor: Jalan Cunningham, MEd
Macey Lane Downey, OTD
Constraint-Induced Movement Therapy Administered to Adult Individuals with Disabilities According to the Model of Human Occupations Framework*
Faculty Mentor: Sarah dos Anjos, PhD, OTD, MSc, OTR/L
Doctoral Capstone Partner: UAB Neuroplasticity Rehabilitation Program*Selected for in-person symposium presentation
Grace G. Elliott, OTD
The Implementation of a Creative Occupations After-School Program within Rural Elementary Schools*
Faculty Mentor: Hon K. Yuen, PhD, OTR/L
Doctoral Capstone Partner: Limestone County School System
Site Mentor: Sandra Groger, OTD, OTR/L*Selected for in-person symposium presentation
Sadie Hare, OTD
Effects of a Mirror Neuron-Based Virtual Reality System and Adaptive Software on Upper Extremity Function in an Individual Experiencing Hemiparesis Post-Stroke: A Case Study*
Faculty Mentor: Jason Vice PhD, OTR/L
Doctoral Capstone Partner: Department of Pediatrics, UAB School of Medicine
Site Mentor: Byron Lai, PhD*Selected for in-person symposium presentation
Katie Jackson, OTD
The Implementation of the Occupation of Play within Skilled Nursing Facilities
Faculty Mentor: Jason Vice, PhD, OTR/L, SCLV
Doctoral Capstone Partner: Aspire Physical and Recovery Center at Cahaba River
Site Mentor: Raven Green, MSOT, OTR/L
Anna Livingston, OTD
The Effect of Creative Arts on Depression and Quality of Life
Faculty Mentor: Jason Vice, PhD, OTR/L, SCLV
Doctoral Capstone Partner: Restore Therapy, Jacksonville Health and Rehabilitation
Site Mentor: Lisa Fuller, OTR/L
Katherine Martin, OTD
Correlation between Self-efficacy, Environment, and Dietary Behaviors in Adults with Multiple Sclerosis
Faculty Mentor: Brooks Wingo, PhD
Ashley McInnish, OTD
The Perceptions of People with Stroke on the Impact of Valuable Patient Education in the Acute Phase of Recovery
Faculty Mentor: Sarah dos Anjos, PhD, OTD, MSc, OTR/L
Doctoral Capstone Partner: Spain Rehabilitation Center
Site Mentor: Randie Carter, OTR/L, CCM
Baleigh Nelson, OTD
The Influence of a Group Dance Program on Social Engagement in Individuals with Parkinson’s Disease
Faculty Mentor: Jason Vice, PhD, OTR/L, SCLV
Doctoral Capstone Partner: UAB Arts in Medicine
Site Mentor: Teri Weksler
Priya Patel, OTD
The Importance of Meaningful Activities in Skilled Nursing Facilities*
Faculty Mentor: Hon Yuen, PhD, OTR/L
Doctoral Capstone Partner: Crowne Healthcare of Montgomery
Site Mentor: Sheila McDonald, OTR/L*Selected for in-person symposium presentation
Makayla Shoots, OTD
Descriptive Analysis of Interventions Used by Occupational Therapists in Stroke Acute Care Settings*
Faculty Mentor: Sarah dos Anjos, PhD, OTS, MS, OTR/L
Doctoral Capstone Partner: Brookwood Baptist Medical Center
Site Mentor: Nikesha Upshaw, OTR/L, MPPM*Selected for in-person symposium presentation
Kaisey Showers, OTD
Exploring Sensory Processing Disorder in the Adult Population
Faculty Mentor: Valley McCurry, PhD, MBA, OTR/L
Doctoral Capstone Partner: Ability Plus, Inc.
Site Mentor: Tricialyn Green
Emma K. Sullins, OTD
Snoezelen: It’s Not A Bore!
Faculty Mentor: Valley McCurry, PhD, MBA, OTR/L, FAOTA
Doctoral Capstone Partner: Huntsville Hospital
Sie Mentor: Tad Parker, OTR/L, MPA
Hannah Rae Turner, OTD
The Influence of Education on Behavioral Patterns and Decision Making in Individuals Referred to Pelvic Floor Therapy*
Faculty Mentor: Elizabeth Barstow, PhD, OTR/L, SCLV, FAOTA
Doctoral Capstone Partner: Benchmark Physical Therapy
Site Mentor: Tori Rowell, MSOT, OTR/L*Selected for in-person symposium presentation
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Community Interventions
Jane Frances Armour, OTD
Life and Career Skills Impacting Self-Efficacy and Transition Planning of At-Risk Youth*
Faculty Mentor: Sarah Tucker, PhD, OTR/L
Doctoral Capstone Partner: Offender Alumni Association
Site Mentor: Dena Dickerson*Selected for in-person symposium presentation
Ge’Keira Ashford, OTD
Can a Behavioral Program Help Children with Emotional Behavior Disorders?
Faculty Mentors: Brooks Wingo, PhD; Sarah Tucker, PhD OTR/L
Doctoral Capstone Partner: Offender Alumni Association
Site Mentor: Dena Dickerson
Peyton Brown, OTD
Establishing Nightly Routines of Young Adults with Intellectual and/or Developmental Disabilities (IDD) in a Transition Program*
Faculty Mentor: Brooks C. Wingo, PhD
Doctoral Capstone Partner: The Horizons School
Site Mentor: Brian Geiger, PhD*Selected for in-person symposium presentation
Grace G. Elliott, OTD
The Implementation of a Creative Occupations After-School Program within Rural Elementary Schools*
Faculty Mentor: Hon K. Yuen, PhD, OTR/L
Doctoral Capstone Partner: Limestone County School System
Site Mentor: Sandra Groger, OTD, OTR/L*Selected for in-person symposium presentation
Michaelea Pass Gonder, OTD
Inclusive Playgrounds: The Role of Occupational Therapy
Faculty Mentor: Christopher Eidson, PhD, MS, OTR/L, FAOTA
Doctoral Capstone Partner: Everyday Sunshine
Site Mentor: Jeff Sharp
Carlee Leatherman, OTD
A Trauma-Informed Education Program for Foster, Kinship, and Adoptive Caregivers Education for Adverse Feeding and Mealtime Behaviors, Early Condition Detection, Interventions, and Available Resources
Faculty Mentor: K. Megan Carpenter, OTD, OTR/L, SCFES
Doctoral Capstone Partner: Foster the Future Alabama
Site Mentor: Rachel Ashcraft, MS, OTR/L, TBRI® Practitioner
Car’Daijah Lewis, OTD
The Impact of an Educational and Activity Based Program on Inclusion of Children With Disabilities or Disorders
Faculty Mentor: Jewell J. Dickson-Clayton, OTD, MPH, OTR/L, ATP, FAOTA
Doctoral Capstone Partner: United Cerebral Palsy of Central Alabama–Childcare Enhancement With a Purpose
Site Mentor: Sherry Speake, BSED
Annie Ozment, OTD
The Implementation of Proper Ergonomic Programs Among Food Bank Volunteers
Faculty Mentor: Christopher Eidson, PhD, MS, OTR/L, FAOTA
Doctoral Capstone Partner: Alabama Childhood Food Solutions
Site Mentor: Gene Rogers
Annie Pipkin, OTD
Exceptional Changes for Healthier Habits in Adults with Intellectual Disabilities*
Faculty Mentor: Brooks Wingo, PhD
Doctoral Capstone Partner: The Exceptional Foundation
Site Mentor: Robbie Lee, MAEd*Selected for in-person symposium presentation
Ashley Smith, OTD
The Implementation of Ergonomics to Improve Career Quality Among Future Hairstylists
Faculty Mentor: Jewel J. Dickson-Clayton, OTD, MPH, OTR/L, ATP, FAOTA
Doctoral Capstone Partner: The Martin Academy of Cosmetology and Barbering
Site Mentor: David Martin
Rachel Summerlin, OTD
Resources for Patients Discharging from an Inpatient Rehabilitation Facility
Faculty Mentor: Jewell J. Dickson-Clayton, OTD, MPH, OTR/L, ATP, FAOTA
Doctoral Capstone Partner: UAB Spain Rehabilitation Center
Site Mentor: Jil Sea, MS, OTR/L, CCM
Maggi Welch, OTD
Advocating for the Role of Occupational Therapy in Alabama Correctional Facilities: A Comparative Study*
Faculty Mentor: Gavin Jenkins, PhD, OTR/L, ATP*Selected for in-person symposium presentation
Kaylie Williamson, OTD
Exceptional Caregivers: A Support Group for Caregivers of Adults with Disabilities
Faculty Mentor: Christopher Eidson, PhD, MS, OTR/L, FAOTA
Doctoral Capstone Partner: The Exceptional Foundation
Site Mentor: Robbie Lee, MAEd -
Creative Occupations/Arts in Medicine
Heidi Bridges, OTD
The Outcome of Creative Art Interventions for Adults with Cancer
Faculty Mentor: Hon Yuen, PhD, OTR/L
Doctoral Capstone Partner: UAB Arts in Medicine
Site Mentor: Melissa TurnageMegan Brooks, OTD
Increasing Movement and Exercise in Geriatric Patients Through Large-Scaled Creative Occupations
Faculty Mentor: Jason Vice, PhD, OTR/L, SCLV
Doctoral Capstone Partner: Crowne Health Care of Mobile
Site Mentor: Marianne Snyman, OTR/LGrace G. Elliott, OTD
The Implementation of a Creative Occupations After-School Program within Rural Elementary Schools*
Faculty Mentor: Hon K. Yuen, PhD, OTR/L
Doctoral Capstone Partner: Limestone County School System
Site Mentor: Sandra Groger, OTD, OTR/L*Selected for in-person symposium presentation
Anna Livingston, OTD
The Effect of Creative Arts on Depression and Quality of Life
Faculty Mentor: Jason Vice, PhD, OTR/L, SCLV
Doctoral Capstone Partner: Restore Therapy, Jacksonville Health and Rehabilitation
Site Mentor: Lisa Fuller, OTR/LBaleigh Nelson, OTD
The Influence of a Group Dance Program on Social Engagement in Individuals with Parkinson’s Disease
Faculty Mentor: Jason Vice, PhD, OTR/L, SCLV
Doctoral Capstone Partner: UAB Arts in Medicine
Site Mentor: Teri WekslerSavannah Ryan, OTD
Everyday Mom: Program Development Addressing Expectant Mothers’ Self-Efficacy in the Occupations of Financial Management and Work
Faculty Mentor: Brooks C. Wingo, PhD
Doctoral Capstone Partner: Alpha Center
Site Mentor: Lorissa JohnsonAllison N. Sortino, OTD
Special Stage: A Creative Arts Theater Program for Adolescents With Disabilities
Faculty Mentor: Hon K. Yuen, PhD, OTR/L
Doctoral Capstone Partner: Jasper High School
Site Mentor: Jackee D. Key, MEd -
Low Vision Rehabilitation
Nicole Fernandez, OTD
Barriers to Low Vision Rehabilitation for Urban and Rural Community Dwellers in South Africa: A Comprehensive Survey*
Faculty Mentor: Elizabeth Barstow, PhD, OTR/L, SCLV, FAOTA
Site Mentors: Bea Leibowitz, Nat Dip OT; Belinda Leibowitz, Occupational Therapist, Special Interest Low Vision; Karen Denton BA(Psych), RN, RM, DNE, DNA, DOTT, DPN*Selected for in-person symposium presentation
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Mental Health
Aja Amison, OTD
Social Media Use & Self-Esteem in Adolescent Girls
Faculty Advisor: Valley McCurry PhD, MBA, OTR/L
Doctoral Capstone Partner: Girls Inc. of Central Alabama
Site Mentor: Marlesa Willis, MBA
Eleese Anthony, OTD
The Effects of Creating an Online Resource to Enhance NICU Parent Mental Health
Faculty Mentor: Valley McCurry, PhD, MBA, OTR/L, FAOTA
Doctoral Capstone Partner: UAB Newborn Follow-up Clinic
Site Mentor: Myriam Ada Peralta-Carcelen, MD
Conley Day, OTD
The Dark Side of Occupational Therapy*
Faculty Mentor: Valley McCurry, PhD, MBA, OTR/L, FAOTA
Doctoral Capstone Partner: Firehouse Ministries
Site Mentor: Val Green, LMSW*Selected for in-person symposium presentation
Maria G. Jimenez, OTD
To Describe Spiritual Issues and Emotional Support Addressed by Visitors in Two Critical Care Units in UAB Hospital
Faculty Mentor: Hon K. Yuen, PhD, OTR/L
Doctoral Capstone Partner: UAB School of Health Professions
Site Mentor: Hon K. Yuen, PhD, OTR/L
Anna Livingston, OTD
The Effect of Creative Arts on Depression and Quality of Life
Faculty Mentor: Jason Vice, PhD, OTR/L, SCLV
Doctoral Capstone Partner: Restore Therapy, Jacksonville Health and Rehabilitation
Site Mentor: Lisa Fuller, OTR/L
Emma K. Sullins, OTD
Snoezelen: It’s Not A Bore!
Faculty Mentor: Valley McCurry, PhD, MBA, OTR/L, FAOTA
Doctoral Capstone Partner: Huntsville Hospital
Site Mentor: Tad Parker, OTR/L, MPA
Hannah C. Turner, OTD
Assessing Self-Determination of Foster Youth & Alumni to Obtain Post-Secondary Education*
Faculty Mentor: Sarah C. Tucker, PhD, OTR/L
Doctoral Capstone Partner: Grace House Ministries
Site Mentor: Victoria Johnson, EdD*Selected for in-person symposium presentation
Meri Wheeler, OTD
Mental Health Of Juvenile Offenders Post-Release Participating in a Community Re-Integration Program
Faculty Mentor: Jewell J. Dickson-Clayton, OTD, MPH, OTR/L, ATP, FAOTA
Doctoral Capstone Partner: Youth With Faces
Site Mentor: Jazminda Ryan, EdD -
Pediatrics
Aja Amison, OTD
Social Media Use & Self-Esteem in Adolescent Girls
Faculty Advisor: Valley McCurry PhD, MBA, OTR/L, FAOTA
Doctoral Capstone Partner: Girls Inc. of Central Alabama
Site Mentor: Marlesa Willis, MBARikia Baker, OTD
The Perspectives of Professionals of Behavior Exhibited by Children with Disabilities after Engagement in a Snoezelen Sensorimotor Room Treatment
Faculty Mentor: K. Megan Carpenter, OTD, OTR/L, SCFES
Doctoral Capstone Partner: The Bell Center
Site Mentor: Mary Laura Day, MSOT, OTR/LAllison Davis, OTD
The Influence of Sensory Strategies on Focus and Success in School When Implemented in a Classroom from a Teacher’s Perspective
Faculty Mentor: Haley Curry, OTD, OTR/L
Doctoral Capstone Partner: Woodland Pines Elementary School
Site Mentor: MacKenzie SaundersAllie Dillard, OTD
The Influence of Sensory Equipment in a Sensory Room on Students in a School System
Faculty Mentor: Haley Curry, OTD, OTR/L
Doctoral Capstone Partner: Burkett Center
Site Mentors: Karmen Mitchell, MS, OTR/L; Alisha Watson, OTR/LMadison Gaston, OTD
The Development of a Cognitive Assessment for Individuals with Rett Syndrome
Faculty Mentor: Christopher Eidson, PhD, MS, OTR/L, FAOTA
Doctoral Capstone Partner: UAB Civitan-Sparks Clinics
Site Mentor: Kristina Ford, MSMichaelea Pass Gonder, OTD
Inclusive Playgrounds: The Role of Occupational Therapy
Faculty Mentor: Christopher Eidson, PhD, MS, OTR/L, FAOTA
Doctoral Capstone Partner: Everyday Sunshine
Site Mentor: Jeff SharpHannah Higgins, OTD
The Influence of a Sensory Room on School-Aged Children’s Focus, Mental Health, and Engagement in the Classroom
Faculty Mentor: K. Megan Carpenter, OTD, OTR/L, SCFES
Doctoral Capstone Partner: Thorsby High School
Site Mentor: Michelle Coppedge, MEdKatie Jackson, OTD
The Implementation of the Occupation of Play within Skilled Nursing Facilities
Faculty Mentor: Jason Vice, PhD, OTR/L, SCLV
Doctoral Capstone Partner: Aspire Physical and Recovery Center at Cahaba River
Site Mentor: Raven Green, MSOT, OTR/LCarlee Leatherman, OTD
A Trauma-Informed Education Program for Foster, Kinship, and Adoptive Caregivers Education for Adverse Feeding and Mealtime Behaviors, Early Condition Detection, Interventions, and Available Resources
Faculty Mentor: K. Megan Carpenter, OTD, OTR/L, SCFES
Doctoral Capstone Partner: Foster the Future Alabama
Site Mentor: Rachel Ashcraft, MS, OTR/L, TBRI® PractitionerCar’Daijah Lewis, OTD
The Impact of an Educational and Activity Based Program on Inclusion of Children With Disabilities or Disorders
Faculty Mentor: Jewell J. Dickson-Clayton, OTD, MPH, OTR/L, ATP, FAOTA
Doctoral Capstone Partner: United Cerebral Palsy of Central Alabama–Childcare Enhancement With a Purpose
Site Mentor: Sherry Speake, BSEdAllie Lisby, OTD
The Effect of a Detailed Infant Feeding Plan at Children's of Alabama
Faculty Mentor: Sarah C. Tucker, PhD, OTR/L
Doctoral Capstone Partner: Children’s of Alabama
Site Mentor: Christy Moran, OTD, OTR/L, CNT, NLPAnna Livingston, OTD
The Effect of Creative Arts on Depression and Quality of Life
Faculty Mentor: Jason Vice, PhD, OTR/L, SCLV
Doctoral Capstone Partner: Restore Therapy, Jacksonville Health and Rehabilitation
Site Mentor: Lisa Fuller, OTR/LChristie Morgan, OTD
The Influence of Feeding Assessments at Pediatric Well Checks*
Faculty Mentor: K. Megan Carpenter, OTD, OTR/L, SCFES
Doctoral Capstone Partner: Mayfair Medical Group
Site Mentor: Elizabeth Peters, MD*Selected for in-person symposium presentation
Bailey Poor, OTD
Transition Planning for Students with Developmental Disabilities and Autism: The Role of Administration, Teachers, Parents, and Therapists*
Faculty Mentor: Areum Han, PhD, OTR/L
Doctoral Capstone Partner: Bridgeway Academy
Site Mentor: Anna Murray, OTD, OTR/L*Selected for in-person symposium presentation
Allison N. Sortino, OTD
Special Stage: A Creative Arts Theater Program for Adolescents With Disabilities
Faculty Mentor: Hon K. Yuen, PhD, OTR/L
Doctoral Capstone Partner: Jasper High School
Site Mentor: Jackee D. Key, MEdHannah C. Turner, OTD
Assessing Self-Determination of Foster Youth & Alumni to Obtain Post-Secondary Education*
Faculty Mentor: Sarah C. Tucker, PhD, OTR/L
Doctoral Capstone Partner: Grace House Ministries
Site Mentor: Victoria Johnson, EdD*Selected for in-person symposium presentation
Molly Welch, OTD
Optimizing the IEP: A Comprehensive Guide to Assessment Selection for Alabama Transition Standards*
Faculty Mentor: Christopher Eidson, PhD, MS, OTR/L, FAOTA
Doctoral Capstone Partner: Blount County Schools
Site Mentor: Lynn Ponder, OTR/L*Selected for in-person symposium presentation
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Research
Brittany Bell, OTD
Lived Experience of Informal Caregivers of Persons Living with Dementia in Engagement in Leisure, Social, and Self-Care Activities*
Faculty Mentor: Areum Han, PhD, OTR/L
Doctoral Capstone Partner: McCoy Adult Daycare
Site Mentor: Vivian Story, MSW*Selected for in-person symposium presentation
Haley Browning, OTD
A Qualitative Study Exploring the Lived Experiences of Occupational Therapy Practitioners in Cardiac Rehabilitation*
Faculty Mentor: Areum Han, PhD, OTR/L
Doctoral Capstone Partner: University of Alabama at Birmingham
Site mentor: Areum Han, PhD, OTR/L*Selected for in-person symposium presentation
Jalysia Donaldson, OTD
The Impact of Online Learning Aids on Academic Performance in Undergraduate Students with ADHD
Faculty Mentor: Gavin Jenkins, PHD, OTR/L, ATP
Doctoral Capstone Partner: UAB Disability Support Services
Site Mentor: Jalan Cunningham, MEdAshley McInnish, OTD
The Perceptions of People with Stroke on the Impact of Valuable Patient Education in the Acute Phase of Recovery
Faculty Mentor: Sarah dos Anjos, PhD, OTD, MSc, OTR/L
Doctoral Capstone Partner: Spain Rehabilitation Center
Site Mentor: Randie Carter, OTR/L, CCMMelissa Pontius, OTD
Needs, Barriers, and Facilitators of Physical Activity Engagement Among Caregivers of Children with Disabilities
Faculty Mentor: Brooks Wingo, PhD
Doctoral Capstone Partner: Child’sPlay Therapy Center
Site Mentors: Danielle Russo, MS, LMFT, CFLE; Laura Lee, MSPTBailey Poor, OTD
Transition Planning for Students with Developmental Disabilities and Autism: The Role of Administration, Teachers, Parents, and Therapists*
Faculty Mentor: Areum Han, PhD, OTR/L
Doctoral Capstone Partner: Bridgeway Academy
Site Mentor: Anna Murray, OTD, OTR/L*Selected for in-person symposium presentation
Makayla Shoots, OTD
Descriptive Analysis of Interventions Used by Occupational Therapists in Stroke Acute Care Settings*
Faculty Mentor: Sarah dos Anjos, PhD, OTS, MS, OTR/L
Doctoral Capstone Partner: Brookwood Baptist Medical Center
Site Mentor: Nikesha Upshaw, OTR/L, MPPM*Selected for in-person symposium presentation
Mackenzie Steger Wilson, OTD
The Special Needs Childcare Subsidy, Inclusivity Training, and Caregiver Satisfaction with Childcare Services in Alabama
Faculty Mentor: K. Megan Carpenter, OTD, OTR/L, SCFES
Doctoral Capstone Partner: United Cerebral Palsy of Mobile
Site Mentor: Samantha DavidsonAnna Leigh Page Thacker, OTD
A Qualitative Study Exploring the Lived Experience of Mothers With Postpartum Depression in Their Occupational Engagement*
Faculty Mentor: Areum Han, PhD, OTR/L
Doctoral Capstone Partner: New Leaf Counseling Services of the Tennessee Valley
Site Mentor: Alicia Shuster-Couch MA, LPC, PMH-C*Selected for in-person symposium presentation
McKenzie Williams, OTD
Is There A Need for Live Captioning in Healthcare, Transportation, and Retail Settings?*
Faculty Mentor: Gavin Jenkins, PhD, OTR/L, ATP
Doctoral Capstone Partner: Smart Solutions
Site Mentor: Kevin Braswell*Selected for in-person symposium presentation
Sydney Wright, OTD
Addressing Intimacy & Sexuality in Women with Breast Cancer*
Faculty Mentor: Sarah dos Anjos, PhD, OTD, MSc, OTR/L*Selected for in-person symposium presentation