At a key transition point in their studies, occupational therapy students across all USAHS campuses participate in a meaningful ritual, witnessed by family and friends. The OT pinning ceremony marks the end of the classroom portion of their studies and the beginning of their fieldwork. For Residential MOT and OTD students, this happens in their fourth term, and for Flex, in the seventh term.
A longstanding tradition in OT practice, the pin celebrates the diversity of practice areas, the client-centered nature of our practice and the values of our profession.
“It’s an opportunity for faculty to acknowledge our students’ transition from classroom learning to clinical learning,” says Mary Zadnik, ScD, MEd, OTR/L, director of the entry-level OT programs on Read more
Doctor of Philosophy in Physical Therapy: Texas Woman's University 2019
Master of Science in Physical Therapy: Texas Woman's University 2006
Bachelor of Science in Communication Studies: The University of Texas 2004
Research Interests
Investigating deep trunk muscle activity in patients with lumbar spine disorders
Areas of Expertise
Orthopaedic rehabilitationErgonomics
Dr. Kathryn Sawyer earned her Bachelor of Science degree in Communication Studies from the University of Texas in 2004. She subsequently earned a Master of Science degree in Physical Therapy from Texas Woman’s University in 2006. In the fall of 2019, she completed her PhD in Physical Therapy at Texas Woman’s University, where her research centered on development and evaluation of postoperative rehabilitation strategies following lumbar spinal fusion surgery. Dr. Sawyer practiced full-time in both outpatient and inpatient orthopedic settings for 13 years at Texas Orthopedic Hospital in Houston, Texas, and mentored students as a certified Clinical Instructor (CI) for 12 years. She has earned board certification as an Orthopaedic Clinical Specialist (OCS) as well as certification in Mechanical Diagnosis and Therapy (Cert. MDT) and specialization in Ergonomics Assessment (CEAS). Her continuing research interests include investigating deep trunk muscle activity in patients with lumbar spine disorders and exploring the role of telemedicine in the spine patient population.
