Challenges in Theory & Practice, Spring 2024, Vol. 23 No. 2
CHALLENGES in theory & practice
THE LEAHY COLLEGE OF HEALTH SCIENCES
FAMILIAR NAMES HONORED IN NEW WAYS BY UNIVERSITY
Rev. Joseph Marina, S.J., President of The University of Scranton, announced that the Board of Trustees has approved the renaming of the Panuska College of Professional Studies to the “Leahy College of Health Sciences,” and the renaming of the “Commons” and Faculty/Student Research Program to the “Rev. J.A. Panuska, S.J., Commons” and the “Rev. J. A. Panuska, S.J., Faculty/Student Research Program,” in honor of the late, longest-serving President in the University’s history.
“Father Panuska’s devotion to students was legendary, as was the University’s growth under his leadership, and few if any Scranton graduates and benefactors can match the lifelong devotion that Ed Leahy and his wife, Patricia, have manifested over the decades,” said Father Marina.
“Ed and Patricia Leahy have consistently answered the University’s call for support from capital campaigns and annual giving to scholarship appeals and special projects. However, their philanthropic support is only part of the story. Throughout their lives, they have engaged with the University in impactful ways,” said Father Marina. “Their leadership and participation in the annual Conference on disAbility, as just one example, has made possible the presence of nationally and internally recognized speakers and scholars at the event.”
Father Marina noted that changing the title from “professional studies” to “health sciences” more accurately describes the mission and scope of the school, which offers degrees in physical and occupational therapy, nursing, health administration, kinesiology, health promotion, health informatics, communication sciences and disorders, speech-language pathology, human resources, applied behavior analysis and counseling.
(Familiar Names Honored in New Ways by University continued on page 4)
The University celebrated the memory, life and contributions of Edward and Patricia Leahy and their son, Edward Jr., and the late Father Panuska at an event April 23, at which time the University officially formalized the naming of “Rev. J.A. Panuska, S.J., Commons,” the “Rev. J. A. Panuska, S.J., Faculty/Student Research Program,” and the “Leahy College of Health Sciences.”
The Edward R. Leahy, Jr. Endowment was founded in 1995 by Edward and Patricia Leahy to honor the life and memory of their son, Edward R. Leahy, Jr., whose personal disabilities were attended to with compassion and skill by many health professionals over the course of his life. The Leahy Endowment provides financial resources to support theoretical and applied research, faculty development and support for programs that advance the cause of disabled persons who need long-term assistance. The endowment supports the work of persons practicing in physical and occupational therapy, nursing science and related health care areas, with particular interest in individuals and groups that approach their practice as scholars, teachers and practitioners. Primary recipients are University of Scranton faculty from the Leahy College of Health Sciences, consisting of the Departments of Counseling and Human Services, Health and Human Performance, Health Administration and Human Resources, Nursing, Occupational Therapy and Physical Therapy.
The endowment was established and is supported, in part, by the Leahy family and is enriched annually by gifts from corporations and individuals who wish to support the work of the Edward R. Leahy, Jr. Endowment.
in the Leahy PT Clinic
GoBaby Go
• University Presents Rose Kelly Awards
• Students Recognized for Academic Achievement
• Health Promotion Students Partner for Employee Wellness and to Address Child Food Insecurity
• DPT Students Recognized for Research Projects
• Senior OT Students Return to the Dominican Republic
• Nursing Students Study Healthcare in Ireland
• Health Administration Courses to Study Health Systems in Other Continents
VOL.23 NO.2 SPRING 2024
CHALLENGES IN THEORY & PRACTICE
PUBLICATION COMMITTEE
Kristi Klien, Editor
Creative Services, & Printing and Mailing Services, The University of Scranton
LEAHY COLLEGE OF HEALTH SCIENCES
Victoria Castellanos, Ph.D., Dean
Kevin Curry, M.S., Assistant Dean, Director of Advising Center
William Cunningham, Ph.D., Associate Dean
Raymond Schwenk, M.S., Assistant Dean
Kristi Klien, Coordinator for LCHS Academic Affairs
Dolores Rozelle, Secretary for Field Placement and LCHS Support
CHALLENGES CONTENTS
MESSAGE FROM THE DEAN
Dear Friends,
We are thrilled with the announcement of a name change for the Panuska College of Professional Studies to the Leahy College of Health Sciences. Father Panuska was known for his warmth and love for the University of Scranton and venerated by many. He has been an inspiration for the faculty, staff and students of the programs in this college for many years. Ed and Patricia Leahy have also been faithfully devoted to the university and have been an enduring force in support of the university and the college. Their passion is fueled by their son Edward Leahy Jr.’s journey with disability and the dedicated professionals who provided his care. That passion burns as strongly today as it did when they first started their work over 30 years ago. Their many contributions to the university and college, and the legacy of their work, continues to inspire others to the present day.
Our faculty, staff and students will be proud of and inspired by our new name, the Leahy College of Health Sciences. This new name more clearly communicates the mission of the college to prepare undergraduate and graduate students for successful professional careers in allied health. Students graduating from a College of Health Sciences from our Jesuit University are professionals with a commitment to being men and women for and with others and to promote social justice.
The Leahy College of Health Sciences is poised to move forward under this new banner. So many great things are happening right now, such as the inaugural cohort of our new Speech Language Pathology program hosting The Summer Academy for Speech and Language Enrichment at the Scranton School for Deaf and Hard of Hearing Children, the transformation of our Family Nurse Practitioner program to an on-line format and the reopening of the Edward R. Leahy Jr. Clinic for the Uninsured in partnership with the Geisinger Commonwealth School of Medicine. Other great things are right around the corner, like admitting the first cohort of students into the new Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner programs and our graduate counseling programs being available in a fully on-line format, both starting in Fall 2025. We expect to be able to announce more health-related initiatives and new programs in the coming months.
I would like to express my deep gratitude for all of the faculty, staff, students and supporters that make the Leahy College of Health Sciences a wonderful place for teaching and learning. We are truly blessed.
Warmest regards,
Victoria H. Castellanos, Ph.D., RD/N Dean, The Leahy College of Health Sciences
The Edward R. Leahy, Jr.
FAMILIAR NAMES HONORED IN NEW WAYS BY UNIVERSITY
(continued from page 1)
“During his 16-year tenure as President, Father Panuska is credited not only with a construction boom that added 15 buildings to the campus, but also for raising the caliber of our faculty from excellent teachers to teacher-scholars,” said Father Marina, explaining the rational to remember and honor Father Panuska with the renaming of the Student/Faculty Research Program as well as the Commons, the stone pathway at the heart of campus that begins on Linden Street and Monroe Avenue and continues to North Webster Avenue. Three artworks, commissioned during Father Panuska’s term as President, adorn the pathway: the sculpture of Christ the Teacher at the base of the Commons; the Metanoia of St. Ignatius at the midpoint; and the statue of Jacob and the Angel at the top of the hill on the Commons.
Edward R. Leahy, of Scranton’s Class of 1968, served as chair of the University’s Board of Trustees. The University recognized his achievements and service through the Alumni Achievement Award for Distinguished and Exceptional Attainment, given in 1993, the Frank J. O’Hara Distinguished Alumni Award in 2008, and with an Honorary Degree, bestowed in 2001. In 2015, the University dedicated Edward R. Leahy Jr. Hall in honor of their late son. In 2023, he and Patricia received the University’s President’s Medal, which recognizes individuals who have achieved excellence in their fields and demonstrated extraordinary compassion for others, representing lifetime achievements that reflect the University’s mission of Catholic and Jesuit excellence and service.
In 1988, the Leahys created the Edward P. Leahy Scholarship, in memory of Mr. Leahy’s uncle, which awards scholarships to Scranton students annually. In 1994, in memory of their son, Edward, they created the Edward R. Leahy Jr. Endowment at the University, which is the largest single endowment at Scranton. That endowment has supported the Clinic for the Uninsured, which includes a medical clinic, physical therapy, occupational therapy, counseling and low vision clinics that help individuals who are most in need in Lackawanna County. A new agreement between the University and Geisinger Commonwealth School of Medicine will further expand the reach and services offered by the Leahy Medical Clinic. At the 2023 public launch of the University’s “A Fire That Kindles Other Fires Campaign,” Father Marina announced a $10 million gift from the Leahys, which is the largest singledonation in the University’s history.
The naming of the “Leahy College of Health Science” will honor the life and memory of their son, Edward R. Leahy, Jr., and acknowledges Ed and Patricia’s lifelong commitment to and support of The University of Scranton. “Edward, who was a wonderful, happy child, with multiple disabilities, passed away in 1993, just before his ninth birthday. Throughout his short life, Edward was helped enormously by doctors, nurses, physical and occupational therapists, and many other health professionals,” shares Mr. Leahy.
Edward R. Leahy ’68, H’01, Patricia Leahy and Edward R. Leahy Jr. pose for a family portrait.
Rev. Joseph A. Panuska, S.J., then-University President, Patricia Leahy and Edward R. Leahy ‘68, H’01 celebrate the 10th anniversary of the Edward R. Leahy Jr. Endowment.
LEAHY CLINIC RELAUNCHED
We are excited to announce that the Edward R. Leahy Jr. Clinic for the Uninsured has finally reopened! Originally established in 2008, the Leahy Clinic is located on The University of Scranton’s campus in the lower level of McGurrin Hall. The clinic temporarily closed in 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic, but it has now reopened under a partnership with Geisinger Commonwealth School of Medicine (GCSOM). The medical clinic provides free primary care services to uninsured residents of Lackawanna County.
The University of Scranton partnership with GCSOM allows us to provide our patients with the best medical care and support possible. Medical students from GCSOM have dedicated their time to staffing the clinic as volunteers to serve the local community. Medical students shadow physicians who graciously volunteer their time to provide care for the uninsured and underserved community at the Leahy Clinic. Nurse practitioners from the LCHS Nursing Department also volunteer to provide primary care in the clinic. Together with GCSOM, we are committed to providing high-quality primary health care to some of the most vulnerable in our community, while also offering learning opportunities for University of Scranton and GCSOM students.
Students involved in the clinic gain insight into the inner workings of medical care as they are exposed to the behind-the-scenes activity of working in a health care setting. Students are involved in all aspects of the operation, including nursing care, patient intake, patient discharge, interpreter services, quality assurance and so on. Nursing students from The University of Scranton get firsthand experience taking vital signs, obtaining patient past medical history and much more. Volunteers also learn how to create patient charts and send patients for bloodwork,
imaging and other referrals. Our goal is to eventually transition the clinic to an entirely student-run operation, as they learn to take on greater responsibilities to maintain a clinic. By leveraging the mutually beneficial relationship between education and service, we strive to enrich the lives of our patients and our students as we nurture the next generation of compassionate, skilled and versatile health care providers.
Alongside the re-establishment of the Leahy Medical Clinic, our Physical Therapy and OT Low Vision clinics have also resumed. We also anticipate the reopening of our Counseling and Behavioral Health Clinic in the fall. The Counseling and Behavioral Health Clinic will allow us to broaden our holistic health care approach and provide counseling services to individuals who need assistance with their mental health. Together, these specialized services help us meet the diverse health care needs of the local uninsured and underinsured residents of Lackawanna County. As we continuously expand our services, we remain dedicated to promoting health equity and improving the overall well-being of our Scranton community.
MAKING CONNECTIONS IN THE LEAHY PT CLINIC
The student-led Leahy PT Clinic continues its mission of delivering patient-centered, evidence-based care grounded in the Jesuit tradition of serving “for and with others.” This is exemplified as the students provide pro bono physical therapy services to uninsured and underinsured residents of our local community through collaboration and peer mentorship.
As the fall semester began, students welcomed their new DPT student administrative team: Kathryn Kwapniewski G’25, Michael DiLullo G’25, and Kevin Gallego-Peña G’25. This team will continue to make connections in order to increase patient referrals, interdisciplinary collaborations, student engagement and community outreach.
The re-opening of the Leahy Medical Clinic, in partnership with Geisinger Commonwealth School of Medicine (GCSOM), has expanded the ability to connect with more patients in need of physical therapy. “It is so amazing to see the PT Clinic caseload increasing each week,” states Kwapniewski, who recognizes the change from last year’s caseload. “In 2023, we were consistently seeing about four patients per day in the clinic. Now, we are treating about seven to eight clients each day. Thanks to the direct referral system we have established with the Leahy Medical Clinic, patients are able to first connect with a medical doctor, and then be referred right down the hall to the PT Clinic.”
Another connection that has expanded the ability to provide services to those in need is a collaboration with faculty and students from the World Languages and Cultures Department. Over the years, the Leahy PT Clinic has served a diverse population with a large number of individuals who do not speak English and
require translation services. In order to expand our ability to offer translators, PT students reached out to resources here on campus. “Bridging the language barrier between health care providers and patients who have limited English proficiency is an essential part in guaranteeing equalquality access to people from different backgrounds,” states Gallego-Peña. “Patients are much more likely to comply and follow through with treatment plans if they have full understanding of their diagnosis, as well as building a mutual trust relationship with their health care provider,” Gallego- Peña notes. “I myself have had to translate for my parents on many occasions, but not everyone has the luxury to have a relative with them for medical appointments.” By collaborating with students who are taking a Spanish language course, the PT Clinic is able to offer patients the added benefit of greater access to translators and extend a valuable community-based service to more members of the community.
Finally, the PT Clinic is hoping to make more connections by expanding interdisciplinary opportunities in the Leahy Clinic. “The referral relationship between the Leahy Medical Clinic and the PT Clinic is just the start,” comments DiLullo. “There will also be an opportunity for immediate screenings of patients from the medical clinic by PT students.” DiLullo states. “This will help to immediately determine which patients of the medical clinic are appropriate for our services. In addition to improving the quality of care for the patients, it also helps to expand the scope of our care to a wider variety of neurological, cardiovascular, and musculoskeletal conditions.” DiLullo notes, “In the future, we also hope to include other members of the allied health care team, such as occupational therapists and speechlanguage pathologists.”
From left: Leahy PT Clinic student administrative team members Michael DiLullo G’25, Kathryn Kwapniewski G’25, and Kevin Gallego Peña G’25.
GO BABY GO!
The inaugural installment of The University of Scranton’s Go Baby Go program is off to an exciting start. Go Baby Go is a program that provides modified, ride-on toy cars to young children with mobility challenges. Founded at the University of Delaware, Go Baby Go has grown to become a global initiative with chapters across the United States and internationally.
Early mobility provides children the opportunity to move, explore and interact with their environment, which develops physical strength, cognitive growth, social skills and emotional well-being. This sets a strong foundation for their future development and overall health. Children who are unable to do so independently miss out on these opportunities during a crucial period of development. With the generous support of the Edward R. Leahy Jr. Endowment, the students of the Occupational Therapy (OT) and Mechanical Engineering (ME) departments have established the first University of Scranton Go Baby Go chapter and are working to provide customized and fun solutions for children with mobility limitations within the greater Scranton community.
The project began with Professor Stephanie DeNaples, a pediatric specialist in the OT Department, developing a plan to create a Go Baby Go chapter at The University of Scranton. Professor DeNaples holds an enduring commitment to children with special needs and believes that mobility is a human right, regardless of ability. In recognition of the value of interprofessional collaboration, professors and students from the OT and ME departments were invited to join in developing the foundation of the program. The collaboration began with an initial meeting of individuals who expressed interest to introduce the program’s goals, develop expectations and establish an understanding of the unique skill sets of each discipline. Next, community outreach began to recruit children and families who fit the criteria to benefit from the modified toy cars. With outreach assistance from The University
of Scranton’s Autism Hub, families in Lackawanna and multiple surrounding counties were informed of the program, which resulted in more than 10 children enrolling. Due to the uniqueness of each child’s needs, it was essential to host a “play date” in the Edward Leahy Hall Pediatric Rehabilitation Lab so that families and students could get to know the children and identify the best approach towards each customization.
Since meeting the families and children, the students have been meeting weekly to work on the ride-on cars. Modifications so far have included making the cars hand powered, by means of electronic buttons or accelerator bars (for children who lack the lower body control to push a floor pedal), adding postural supports for children who have difficulty sitting upright or with head control, and adding safety measures such as remote controls for caregivers and “kill switches” to shut off power completely. The OT students are applying their knowledge of body mechanics, movement patterns, sensory processing and adaptive design, while the ME students are utilizing their understanding of electrical wiring, circuitry, gearing and 3-D printing. Lastly, and equally important, the students are personalizing the cars by adding stickers, superhero decals and anything else that is meaningful to each individual child and ignites their playful spirit.
The project will culminate on May 5 at the first University of Scranton Go Baby Go Reveal Day. The new “drivers” will receive their adapted cars and have an opportunity to test drive them. The students, professors and families will enjoy an afternoon together celebrating the results of their thoughtful work and compassionate intent. In true Ignatian spirit, The University of Scranton students and faculty continue to embody Cura Personalis by bringing joy, connection and wellness, in a unique way, to children in the Scranton community.
One-year old Asher is fitted for a car by team members before they modify it to fit his unique needs.
From left: Mechanical engineering student Gabrina Garangmau, ‘25, and occupational therapy students Cassandra Hitze, ‘27, Emily Nowak, G’25, and Stephanie Margolies, ‘24, work as an interdisciplinary team to assemble the foundations of the cars to receive modifications.
UNIVERSITY PRESENTS ROSE KELLY AWARDS
The Rose Kelly Award was established by University of Scranton alumnus Joseph Wineburgh, Ph.D., to link the efforts of educators to the achievements of college students. The award is presented jointly to a student in each of the University’s colleges who has completed two years at Scranton and to the teacher whom he or she recognizes as having a great impact on his or her life. Students are selected based on exemplary achievement in both academics and general campus involvement.
Amanda Campbell, Farmingville, New York, received the Rose Kelly Award from LCHS. Campbell, a recipient of The University of Scranton’s four-year, full-tuition Presidential Scholarship, is a junior nursing major. She serves as the chief of staff for University of Scranton Student Government, the student representative for the Library Advisory Committee and as a member of the Board of Trustees Student Life Committee. She honored Katrina Wrigley, her art teacher throughout middle and high school at Sachem High School East.
STUDENTS RECOGNIZED FOR ACADEMIC ACHIEVEMENT
Outstanding University of Scranton students received Frank O’Hara Awards in recognition of their academic achievement.
Hadley Michaels, Baldwinsville, New York, received a medal for academic achievement in her first year. A Dean’s List student at Scranton, she is currently a sophomore nursing major with a minor in psychology. She is a member of the University’s Student Nursing Association and the Society for Sustainability and Conservation Club. A participant of the
University’s First-years Involved in Reflective Service Together (FIRST) Program, she has volunteered at elementary schools, retirement homes and with community clean-up efforts in the greater Scranton area, in addition to mentoring children for the Latinx Program at Elm Park Methodist Church.
Kaitlyn Romito, Hauppauge, New York, received a medal for academic achievement for her sophomore year. A Dean’s List student at Scranton, she is currently a junior nursing major. She is a member of the University’s Student Nursing Association and has served as an anatomy and physiology laboratory teaching assistant and a tutor for the Office of Student Support and Success. Off-campus, she worked for Zwanger-Pesiri Radiology in New York.
Samantha Hoffmann, Millington, New Jersey, received a medal for academic achievement for her junior year. A recipient of the University’s full-tuition Presidential Scholarship, she is currently a senior nursing major with a minor in Spanish and a concentration in nutrition studies. She serves as a note taker for the University’s Office of Student Support and Success. A Dean’s List student at Scranton, she is also on the women’s cross country and track and field teams. She has been named to the Landmark Conference Academic Honor Roll, in addition to her selection as a U.S. Track and Field and Cross Country Coaches Association (USTFCCCA) All-Region honoree and USTFCCCA All-Academic Athlete. Off-campus, she volunteers as an EMT and is a crew chief in the Long Hill First Aid Squad.
From left: Victoria Castellanos, Ph.D., dean of the Leahy College of Health Sciences, and Rose Kelly Award recipient Amanda Campbell.
From left: Victoria Castellanos, Ph.D., dean of the Leahy College of Health Sciences, and O’Hara Award recipients Kaitlyn Romito, Hadley Michaels, and Samantha Hoffman.
HEALTH PROMOTION STUDENTS PARTNER FOR EMPLOYEE WELLNESS AND TO ADDRESS CHILD FOOD INSECURITY
Health promotion (HPRO) students participate in community-based learning (CBL) projects during their sophomore, junior and senior years. These experiences allow students and faculty to partner with various community organizations, and students apply what they are learning in the classroom to meet community defined needs. Students learn first-hand how the social determinants of health intersect to affect individual wellness needs across the lifespan.
Since 2016, HPRO students and faculty have partnered with Saint Joseph’s Center (SJC) to assist with employee health and wellness needs and interests. Last fall, the CBL project focused on promoting the use of the Calm app among SJC employees to reduce anxiety and stress. Dr. Debra Fetherman explained, “Students conducted individual wellness coaching sessions partnering with
DPT STUDENTS RECOGNIZED FOR RESEARCH PROJECTS
The DPT students in the Class of 2024 and their faculty mentors continue to be recognized for their outstanding research projects. This year, 100% of our groups (10 groups with 41 students total) were accepted for presentation at the American Physical Therapy Association’s Combined Sections Meeting (CSM) in Boston Feb. 14-17, 2024.
employees to be self-directed, gain confidence and set a goal to use the Calm app within the next week.” Over 50 individual wellness sessions were conducted.
The HPRO program has also developed a new partnership with Child Hunger Outreach Partners (CHOP) in Scranton. CHOP wants to recruit volunteers, promote its services to address food insecurity among children as well as increase the health literacy of children and families served through its backpack program, in-school pantries, pop-up pantries and summer meals program. HPRO students are creating website and social media content grounded in health communication guidelines, as well as assessing website and health communication materials using health literacy tools, in support of CHOP needs.
CHOP Pittson site after bagging meals. Front row, left to right: Dr. Debra Fetherman, Taralyn Reilly and Gloria Carbajal. Back row, left to right: Charlie Valdez, Declan Maguire, Kaitlin O’Sullivan, Evie Mitchell and Jason Opferman.
From left: William Laughlin, John Mulligan, and Colin Purdy with faculty research advisors Dr. Renee Hakim and Dr. Jennifer Schwartz in front of their poster.
From left: Veronica Lenox, Carley Wiseman, Bridget Neal, and Pamela Sbarra with faculty research advisor Dr. Nicholas Rodio in front of their poster.
ENHANCING CLINICAL COMPETENCY FOR NURSING STUDENTS THROUGH SIMULATION
The Nursing Education and Simulation Center (NESC) is a place for undergraduate and graduate nursing students to engage in immersive learning experiences designed to simulate real-world nursing and health care scenarios. The goal of the NESC is to provide nursing simulation within a dynamic yet controlled clinical environment for the development of psychomotor skills, clinical judgement and to build student confidence in their professional identity as nurses.
Nursing students are first introduced to simulation of realistic patient scenarios in their sophomore year. Emphasis is on communication with different health care disciplines and performance of fundamental nursing skills using hospital-grade equipment. These simulations are used to help students build confidence for the transition into nursing homes and hospitals, where they will care for real patients.
The higher-fidelity simulations, or more technical simulations, that senior and junior nursing students
experience introduce more critical scenarios reflective of real-world hospital settings. The simulations are meant to challenge the students to think critically and to advocate for their patient when an event occurs. The scenarios cover pediatric, obstetric, medical surgical and mental health situations. Prework is assigned to ensure the students possess the knowledge and readiness for the day. Faculty and lab staff provide a pre-brief to the students, which orients them to the day and environment. Students navigate through the patient electronic record and then knock on the patient’s door and go to work. Students engage in assessing the patient/mannequin and the situation, and they interact with any (simulated) family members that may be involved.
The students debrief with their faculty or lab staff on the experience. Debrief takes place in a room that is considered a safe zone to openly discuss the action that took place during the simulation. It is a place for constructive feedback and reflection. These scenarios are typically recorded on video and may be reviewed to allow
Interprofessional Education (IPE) with undergraduate senior nursing students (Sarah Stepnowski, Chloe Rubito, Jessica Tierney, Ashley Livezey, Bailey Mullen and Kalindi Maggs) and graduate anesthesia students (Tommy Nguyen and Thomas Magdelinskas).
students an opportunity to enhance the learning outcomes within their nursing course. Aimee Bouchat (Class of 2024) states, “Simulation at The University of Scranton has acclimated me to a multitude of situations that I may face while in the clinical setting, while providing a safe and comfortable environment for growth.”
During their ICU clinical, seniors participate in a scenario with the graduate nurse anesthesia students who assist in leading a code on a patient having a myocardial infarction. The nurse anesthesia students intubate the patient while the BSN nursing students perform CPR and administer medications to keep the patient alive. Nurse anesthesia students conduct another simulation with our undergraduate nursing students during their obstetrics rotation. This scenario allows students to have an experience in our operating room (OR) suite where a patient in labor needs an epidural and then a cesarean section. Both scenarios help to build teamwork, communication and mutual respect, mirroring the interdisciplinary nature of modern health care practice.
Interprofessional Education (IPE) is another type of nursing simulation that the NESC facilitates. IPEs occur when students from two or more professions learn about, from and with each other to enable effective collaboration and improve health outcomes. One example is the online simulation with the Pharmacy College of Wilkes University that is reflective of a telehealth experience. This IPE focuses on communication among different health care providers, detection of mental health issues in the community and working together to help the patients get back on track with their lives.
Simulation in the Department of Nursing’s NESC is one example of how The University of Scranton equips our students with knowledge, skills and confidence to be compassionate and proficient Royal RNs. Thank you to both the Moses Taylor Foundation and Sanofi for their financial support of the NESC.
Pediatric simulation day with junior nursing students Maura Schaab, Grace Asher, Nellie Rice, Ashlyn Bender, Jillian Walpole and Kiara-Yolie Idarraga.
SENIOR OT STUDENTS RETURN TO THE DOMINICAN REPUBLIC
In late January 2024, 14 senior occupational therapy (OT) students and two faculty chaperones engaged in a transformative Level I fieldwork experience bridging professional health care attributes with global awareness initiatives in the Dominican Republic (DR). The OT department of The University of Scranton has partnered with Cambiando Vidas (meaning “changing lives”), a grass-roots organization linking the United States and DR through the belief that everyone should have the opportunity to reach their full potential.
In San Juan de la Maguana, OT students and faculty built a house from foundation to fixtures in only five days. The two-bedroom house with tiled kitchen and bathroom, along with electricity, created a “home” for a young couple to plan their future with their 9-month-old daughter. During this house build, OT students also observed colleagues and workers by analyzing work ergonomics and safety awareness utilizing a screen assessment and case study format.
In the afternoons, the group provided a pop-up clinic to this community utilizing the community church as their site. Through the guidance of OT faculty and Cambiando Vidas leaders, OT students were able to develop interpersonal skills and professional behaviors, verbal and written, by completing occupational profile interviews, health screens, pediatric developmental profiles, vital and OT assessments, followed by the development of goals and treatment plans. Our students were able to learn about the experiences of DR community members who suffer social injustices associated with poverty, such as food insecurity, lack of clean water, inadequate shelter, insufficient education, and lack of access to high-quality health care. Scranton OT students developed a deeper understanding of these social determinants of health.
OT students were also able to identify and compare/contrast OT service delivery models in the DR versus those in the United States, not only in the community but also in an established interdisciplinary health care facility, Asociacion Dominicana de Rehabiltacion Filial San Juan. At the center, OT students and faculty were included in the team of health care professionals to observe, assess and treat a variety of orthopedic, neurological and developmental diagnoses across the lifespan. OT students were also exposed to interdisciplinary health care through the addition of early intervention services and physical therapy. Through the guidance of faculty and the DR therapy team, OT students practiced oral and written professional skills by providing interviews, assessments and utilization of clinical reasoning to develop goals and implement/revise treatment plans. In turn, OT faculty provided U.S. therapy concepts and strategies to the DR therapy team.
Throughout the trip, OT students were immersed in the DR culture through language, meals, customs and tours of the surrounding areas. The group was challenged to solve common barriers such as language and customs to provide the needed health care. The group also learned the laws governing the people of the DR and how the power of the government affects their society, especially in terms of business, health care and education. Throughout the trip, students were challenged to self-learn in a variety of situations and to be successful in incorporating course material into the multitude of situations present in the DR.
Completed House Build
At the conclusion of the trip, the group shared their struggles, triumphs and knowledge (along with hugs and tears) gained over the short week. Many reflected on how the experience has changed them, both professionally and personally. The OT DR trip is a phenomenal example of how health care education and service can be combined in a dual relationship to meet both course objectives and the Jesuit mission of community-based learning.
Front row (left to right): Stefanie DeNaples (OT faculty), Emily Umstadt, Erin Fowler, Jessica Tsu, Kiera Mooney, Chandra Nealon (OT faculty), Maddie Senatore, Grace Kane, Meredith Lee and Rose Camiolo Back row (left to right): Emily Byrne, Kelly McGovern, Nicole Kenny, Annie Seaman, Katie Holdsworth, and Grace Scott.
NURSING STUDENTS STUDY HEALTHCARE IN IRELAND
On Jan. 3, 2024, Dr. Ann Feeney and Dr. Julie Murphy accompanied 18 nursing students to Ireland as part of a faculty-led study abroad course titled “Healthcare Systems and Nursing Practice Abroad.” The course provided students with an opportunity to explore global health issues within the context of nursing. Students engaged in two weeks of classes at Trinity College’s School of Nursing and Midwifery. These classes allowed students to delve into the world of Irish nursing, exploring the structure of the health care system and contemporary health issues in Ireland. Each student gained hands-on experience by spending a day shadowing a nurse in a Dublin hospital. Additionally, students participated in acute adult and child nursing scenarios in the state-of-theart simulation suite at the Trinity Centre for Health Sciences on St. James Hospital’s campus. Throughout the experience, students had the opportunity to perform a wide range of clinical procedures.
In addition to classes and clinical experiences, students were able to engage in cultural enrichments, including visiting notable landmarks such as the EPIC museum, Dublin Castle, St. Patrick’s Cathedral, the Abbey Theatre, Croke Park and the Guinness Storehouse. They also enjoyed a lively night of traditional Irish music and dancing and took a day trip to Northern Ireland to witness the natural wonder of the Giant’s Causeway, a formation created by ancient volcanic eruptions.
The program concluded with a debate on the merits of the Irish health care system compared to that of the United States. Upon returning to Scranton, all students submitted journals reflecting on their study abroad experience. Many expressed their appreciation for the opportunity to learn about Irish health care, both in the classroom and through their conversations with Irish citizens during their travels around the island. All participants described the trip as an enriching and invaluable educational and cultural experience.
From leftt: Emma Heaney, Angelina McGuire, Lauren Perry, Sarah Killian, Bridget Coyne, Maureen Heaney, Fiona Flanagan, Jessica Fedroff, Joe Lynch, Ellen Meehan, Olivia Neilan, Nicholas Trainor, Kate Doyle, Jeremy Dickinson, Chloe Rubito, Fiona Peterson, Kaitlyn O’Farrell.
From left: Bridget Coyne, Jessica Fedroff, Fiona Flanagan, Jeremy Dickinson and Kate Doyle.
HEALTH ADMINISTRATION COURSES TO STUDY HEALTH SYSTEMS IN OTHER CONTINENTS
The University of Scranton offers two student study abroad opportunities for residential and online students within the Master of Health Administration (MHA), and/or Master of Business Administration (MBA) programs. These studyabroad opportunities involve established partnerships with St. Elizabeth University in Slovakia and the Pontifical Catholic University of Rio de Janeiro. A Global Health Specialization can also be added to either of these degrees. This specialization aims to enhance health care leadership skills with a global perspective, preparing students to collaborate with relief organizations, government agencies and leaders in various countries. Participants gain firsthand experience addressing challenges in international health care systems, develop intercultural communication skills, and engage in discussions on global health management, public health and social justice.
For the course South American Health Systems, students tour hospitals and other health care organizations in the cities of São Paulo and Rio de Janeiro to better understand the Brazilian health care system. In São Paulo, the group may tour two to three major hospitals: Albert Einstein Israelite Hospital, Hospital Sírio-Libanês and the Institute of Cancer of São Paulo. Additionally, they will learn about higher education in Brazil with a tour of PUCRIO University. The students also have the opportunity to visit many famous tourist locations throughout São Paulo and Rio de Janeiro. Students present research to other students, physicians, faculty and other executives on topics that can include deforestation of the Amazon, comparing pay-per-performance with other countries,
Brazil: Hospital Sírio-Libanês Tour
prenatal care access, and many other topics related to both health care and Brazil.
Students in the course European Health Systems travel to Slovakia, Austria, the Netherlands, the Czech Republic and Hungary. The group tours hospitals and other health care organizations within Slovakia to better understand the Slovak health care system. The group also visits St. Elizabeth University located in Bratislava. The group spends a tour day in Amsterdam, Prague, Budapest and Vienna, visiting popular tourist locations and learning about each city’s history. Students present research and have the opportunity to engage with other students, physicians, faculty and other executives. The presentation topics can include long-term care, adolescent obesity, artificial intelligence, and many other topics that are related to both health care and Slovakia.
Left to right: Christopher J. Talocka, Mariya P. Monfette, Mikaela Kucera, Mary Isijola, Dr. Daniel West, Ujwal R. Tuladhar, Dr. Steven Szydlowski and Manosky Sarrette.
Slovakia: Bratislava Castle
From left: Christopher J. Talocka, Mariya P. Monfette, Mikaela Kucera, Mary Isijola, Dr. Daniel West, Ujwal R. Tuladhar, Dr. Steven Szydlowski and Manosky Sarrette.
Leahy College of Health Sciences
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Scranton, PA 18510-4670
710108
scranton.edu /leahyendowment
The Edward R. Leahy, Jr. Endowment
Contribution to The Edward R. Leahy, Jr. Endowment
Contributions from friends & benefactors support the work of The Edward R. Leahy, Jr. Endowment, and its mission to support the education, training and work of professionals who advance the cause of individuals with disabilities who need long-term assistance.
Please help us to achieve these goals by making a contribution today.
Founder’s Society • $5,000 and more
Benefactor’s Circle • $2,500-$4,999
Patrons • $1,000-$2,499
Friends • up to $999
To make a donation, visit our secure website: scranton.edu/ makeagift
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Edward Leahy Award: Challenge Grant
Two years ago, a benefactor who chooses to remain anonymous created the Edward Leahy Award within LCHS in recognition of the extraordinary patronage Mr. Leahy has demonstrated toward the College over the years. This cash award is given to a rising junior or senior student in the Leahy College of Health Sciences who has achieved academic excellence in his or her field of study, participated in related extracurricular activities, and has demonstrated the commitment and promise to become a model leader in the field. Now this same anonymous benefactor has made a “Challenge Grant” in connection with this Award, agreeing to match all donations in support of this Award. To qualify for this match, all donations should be designated for the “Edward Leahy Award.”
