No Climb Too Steep for Occupational Therapy Alumni

So when kids swing all the way across the monkey bars in a sensory gym — or adults get out of a chair by themselves for the first time after a hip fracture — those gasps, audible wins really, deliver a most precious commodity.

Hope.

This summer, nearly a dozen occupational therapists met at OT-Kids in Stamford while others gathered in Fairfield to share stories about their time at Quinnipiac, the work they love and an uncompromising commitment to their patients.

In Their Words

Kristin Nguyen ’02

Owner and executive director, OT-Kids

“I’ve been taking fieldwork students from Quinnipiac for 20 years. I never have any reservations taking them. They’re more prepared. They’re more professional. Quinnipiac students come in and they’re ready to go.”

Tara Buckman ’07, MOT ’09

Occupational therapist, OT-Kids

“In my own work in pediatric occupational therapy, I see how supporting children with sensory processing, feeding and motor development not only changes their daily lives, but also strengthens families and communities. Looking ahead, I believe our field will keep expanding into new areas of wellness, prevention and holistic care, meeting people wherever they are to help them thrive.”

Christian Alvarez ’11, MOT ’13

Regional director of rehabiliation, Hartford HealthCare

“You find a lot of your fellow alumni at Hartford HealthCare. At the hospital, at special needs, at the outpatient sites — if you’re in OT, there’s a good chance at least one or two or 10 Quinnipiac alumni will be there. If you’re interviewing for a job, people will say, ‘Oh, you went to Quinnipiac.’ It’s check, check, check. You check all the boxes.”

Laurie Wallace ’83

Occupational therapy coordinator, Greenwich Hospital

“Quinnipiac gave me an excellent education and an excellent foundation. That hasn’t changed. From what I’ve seen over my career, Quinnipiac students are still well prepared and ready to begin their careers.”

Julia Schiavone ’20, MOT ’21

Occupational therapist, OT-Kids

“More and more kids are falling behind in their developmental milestones, and it is going to be so important to educate families on advocacy for their children as they grow.”

Michelle Simiola ’12, MOT ’14

Occupational therapist, Hartford HealthCare

“Occupational therapy is a dynamic and evolving profession, grounded in the belief that participation in meaningful daily activities is essential to health and well-being. As we look toward the future, technological advancement — including artificial intelligence, innovative research tools, and digital platforms for communication and education — are poised to significantly enhance the way we deliver care.”