Faculty collaborate with healthcare professionals at Clinical Educators Workshop

SHARON, Pa. - Penn State Shenango's physical therapist assistant (PTA) and occupational therapy assistant (OTA) programs hosted the annual Clinical Educators Workshop on Friday, Nov. 7, bringing together clinical instructors and fieldwork educators from across the region for a day of in-person professional development, collaboration, and connection.



This year's workshop featured Mental Health First Aid training facilitated by Tammy Divens, teaching professor in Penn State Shenango's OTA program, and Roxanne Atterholt, associate teaching professor of human development and family studies, both certified mental health first aid instructors who guided participants through practical strategies for recognizing and responding to signs of mental health challenges in professional settings. The full-day workshop equipped attendees with valuable tools to support both patients and colleagues while promoting mental well-being within healthcare environments.



The event was hosted by Jennifer Jewell, teaching professor and academic coordinator of clinical education (ACCE) for the PTA program, and Geralyn Wallace, assistant teaching professor and fieldwork coordinator for the OTA program. Together, they emphasized the importance of continued collaboration between the college's academic programs and local clinical partners.



"Our clinical and fieldwork partners are vital to student success," Jewell said. "This annual workshop is our opportunity to connect face-to-face, share current best practices, and strengthen the professional community that supports our students in the field."



"This year's focus on mental health reflects a growing need across healthcare settings," Wallace added. "We want our students and clinical partners to feel confident and equipped to respond compassionately to the challenges that impact patient care and professional well-being."



Penn State Shenango's PTA and OTA programs partner with local clinics, hospitals, and rehabilitation facilities for both continuing education opportunities for working professionals, as well as to provide meaningful clinical experiences for Shenango students.