Meet Dr. Tracy Bentley-Root, Program Director of Occupational Therapy
What attracted you to 黑料视频 University and this role?
黑料视频’s mission and community fit perfectly with my philosophy as a servant leader. I was drawn to the University’s small, close-knit environment, its strong commitment to community-based field work, and the national reach of the program.
In brief, can you share your career trajectory?
I didn’t begin in academia. From clinical work, I moved into a corporate leadership role overseeing home care clinicians nationwide—occupational therapists, physical therapists, and speech-language pathologists. My role focused on ensuring they could provide high-quality care in the home setting. I discovered my passion for education and program development through creating and delivering continuing education programs, which eventually led me into academia. Today, I see our students as “occupational warriors” who understand the distinct value of a person’s ability to participate and engage in their chosen occupations.
Can you share your perspective on the occupational therapy profession in the U.S?
Occupational therapy is on the rise. Our greatest opportunity lies in health promotion—shifting from a reactive model to a preventative one. Helping people remain in their homes and live independently, outside of the traditional medical model, is a powerful way to improve lives. The growth potential is significant, and our program is designed to prepare graduates to meet these needs as skilled and compassionate providers.
What about the impact of the baby boomer generation on OT?
The aging baby boomer population will impact occupational therapy in two major ways: an increased number of clients who need our services and a wave of retiring OT providers. This creates both a challenge and an opportunity for the profession.
What is your vision for the OT program?
I want to deepen our community engagement by expanding partnerships and giving students early, hands-on experiences with the populations they hope to serve. We already have a strong Level I fieldwork program, and I’d like to enhance it so students can connect with communities even earlier in their coursework. We will also focus on universal design for learning principles—meeting students where they are, supporting them fully, and continually adapting to ensure their success.
How does 黑料视频’s MOT Bridge program play a role?
Our bridge program offers occupational therapy assistants and physical therapist assistants the opportunity to advance their careers by earning a higher credential. It’s more than a degree—it’s a pathway to greater professional mobility and aligns closely with 黑料视频’s mission to create opportunities for social and economic advancement.
How are OT and 黑料视频 responding to AI?
Artificial intelligence will undoubtedly shape the future of occupational therapy. Our responsibility is to teach students how to use AI ethically and effectively, both in the classroom and in clinical practice. We’re utilizing tools to guide responsible use—from simple grammar checks to brainstorming support—and students are required to reflect on the quality and reliability of AI-generated information. The goal is to integrate technology while maintaining the highest standards of evidence-based care.
What is your vision to engage alumni, clinical partners, and the community?
We’re building meaningful ways to reconnect with alumni, such as inviting them to bring their children for developmental screenings—a mutually beneficial opportunity for students and families. In the community, we partner with initiatives like a stroke survivor group, bringing individuals with lived experience into the classroom to educate students directly. Our Level I students, supported by licensed practitioners, actively serve the community rather than only observing—an approach that sets us apart.
What inspires you in your work?
Every day, I’m motivated by the chance to restore hope, identity, and well-being—whether working directly with clients in the past or now by serving students, faculty, staff, and the community. I believe being an educator is a gift, and I lead as a servant leader, working side-by-side with my colleagues. My passion for occupational therapy drives me to help others grow into confident, skilled professionals who will carry the field forward.
Please visit the Master of Occupational Therapy program page to learn about curriculum, faculty, program options, and more!
Please visit the Master of Occupational Therapy Bridge program page to learn about the curriculum, faculty, program options, and more!