Bridgett Piernik-Yoder, Ph.D., OTR, named Chair of the Department of Occupational Therapy

Time & Date

Tuesday, December 12, 2017

On Behalf of the UT Health San Antonio School of Health Professions, I am delighted to announce the appointment of Bridgett Piernik-Yoder, Ph.D., OTR, as the Chair of the Department of Occupational Therapy. Dr. Piernik-Yoder currently serves as the Interim Chair of the Department of Occupational Therapy and as an Associate Professor with Tenure. Dr. Piernik-Yoder is a registered occupational therapist (OTR) with expertise in neuromuscular dysfunction, evidence-based practice, and outcomes research. 

Dr. Piernik Yoder has been active in the education and training of occupational therapists and other health professionals since 1998. She has been effective in advancing the scholarship of teaching and learning through the development of electronic course portfolios that support reflection and critical thinking, facilitated the development of interprofessional faculty learning communities, mentored students, and supported initiatives that assist students' transition to becoming outstanding practitioners. 

In recognition of Dr. Piernik-Yoder's excellence and dedication to teaching and learning, she was awarded the 2016 UT Health San Antonio School of Health Professions Scholarship of Teaching Award. Other honors she has received include the UT Health San Antonio Presidential Teaching Excellence Award, the UT Health San Antonio Distinguished Teaching Professor award, and the Texas Occupational Therapy Association Academic Educator of the Year award. 

Committed to furthering the Occupational Therapy profession, Dr. Piernik-Yoder has published many articles and abstracts in peer-reviewed journals on topics including students learning and assessment, the function and safety of older adults, and rehabilitation outcomes. Dr. Bridgett Piernik-Yoder's leadership in service to the profession, institution and school is evidence through her involvement with many organizations, committees, and task force. Included in these are the American Occupational Therapy Association (AOTA) Scholarship of Teaching Institute, Quality Enhancement Plan Committee, Task Force for Occupational Therapy Research in Aging and Disability, and Chair of the UT Health San Antonio School of Health Professions Curriculum Committee. In addition to her leadership and service, Dr. Piernik-Yoder has presented at various conferences in her field. 

Please join me in congratulating Dr. Bridgett Piernik-Yoder on her new role as Chair of the Department of Occupational Therapy. 

David C. Shelledy, Ph.D., RRT, FAARC, FASAHP

Dean and Professor, School of Health Professions