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
PhD in Health Psychology, Walden University
Doctor of Physical Therapy, University of St. Augustine for Health Sciences
Bachelor in Exercise Science, McNeese State University
Dr. Todd Bourgeois was born and raised on a cattle ranch in Southwest Louisiana where he obtained his bachelor degree in Exercise Science in 2005 from McNeese State University. He then received his entry-level doctorate of physical therapy from the University of St Augustine for Health Sciences in 2007. After receiving his physical therapy license he practiced in a private orthopedic and sports physical therapy clinic for 3 years in Destin Florida. During that time of this practice he completed a manual therapy certification (MTC) from the University of St. Augustine. Todd enrolled in the Fellowship (FAAOMPT) program at the University of St. Augustine, which he completed in December of 2011. He also became board certified as an orthopedic specialist (OCS) in March of 2012.
Todd Bourgeois currently practices physical therapy and is a full-time assistant professor for the University St. Augustine in Musculoskeletal courses, Clinical Integration, and Anatomy courses. He also participates in mentoring Fellows and Residents in training who are seeking advancement in clinical practice. He recently completed a PhD in Health Psychology with a focus on positive psychology and hopes to advance the profession of physical therapy and improve people’s quality-of-life.
