Orit Schwartz

Orit Schwartz is a clinical instructor in the undergraduate Rehabilitation Sciences program. Orit teaches several core courses in the RS major about physical and mental health in rehabilitation, case management, and rehabilitation with children and families. In her teaching, Orit seeks to expand students’ understanding of rehabilitation and underscore the social and cultural contexts within which people experience disability and healthcare services. Orit’s teaching, scholarly, and service interests build on her experiences in community-based adult education and as an occupational therapist in Early Intervention and the Chicago public schools. She focuses on educational and professional opportunities for students from underrepresented groups, and on fostering a commitment to health equity, social justice, and cultural inclusivity among the future cadre of healthcare providers.

Orit received an MA in history from Northwestern University; MA in Adult Education from National Luis University, where she later taught courses as an adjunct instructor, and an MS in Occupational Therapy from UIC. Orit has taught in the undergraduate rehabilitation sciences program since January 2017.