Kelly Tappenden to serve as interim head of the UIC Department of Occupational Therapy

It is my pleasure to announce the appointment of Kelly Tappenden, KN professor and head, as interim head of the Department of Occupational Therapy, effective August 15, 2022 until a permanent appointment is made. A current search is ongoing.

I’d like to express my immense gratitude to Yolanda Suarez-Balcazar who will step down to resume full-time teaching and research as professor of OT to further understand and address health disparities experienced by historically marginalized populations. Under her leadership, the department has remained home to the top-ranked MS in occupational therapy program; is at the forefront on issues of diversity, equity and inclusion; and has nurtured the growth and sustainability of its student body through an innovative holistic admissions program.

Please join me in thanking Kelly and Yolanda for their service.

Sincerely,
Bo Fernhall
Dean and Professor
UIC College of Applied Health Sciences