Our faculty are eager to share their expertise as well as their commitment to collaboration, innovation, and servant leadership through Concordia’s uncompromising Christian mission.
Juliane H. Chreston
OTD OTRL
Program Director - Occupational Therapy at CUAA, Professor
Office: Ann Arbor North Building 303
Phone: (734) 995-7596
Bio
Dr. Chreston is an occupational therapist since 1994, experienced in physical rehabilitation and community re-integration. She lives in Grass Lake with her husband of 30+ years and their two dogs.
Education
- OTD - Chatham University (2010)
- MS - Health Education, University of Michigan - Flint (2000)
- BA - Psychology, Wayne State University (1990)
Research Interests
- Professional identity development
- Scholarship of teaching
Teaching Interests
- Occupation-based practice
- Physical medicine and rehabilitation
Kendra Dunsford
PT, DHSC, DPT, SCS, STC
Assistant Professor
Office: Ann Arbor North Building 329
Phone: (734) 995-7468
Bio
Dr. Dunsford has over 16 years of clinical experience in outpatient orthopaedics and sports medicine.
Education
- DPT - Physical Therapy, Emory University (2006)
- BS - Kinesiology, University of Michigan (2001)
- Health Science; Education, University of the Pacific (2023)
Research Interests
- Pediatric Sports Specialization
- Pediatric Injury Prevention
Teaching Interests
- Sports Medicine
- Orthopaedics
Jennifer Engja
OTD, OTRL
Coordinator - Academic Fieldwork Coordinator, Assistant Professor
Office: Ann Arbor North Building 301b
Phone: (734) 995-7369
Education
- OTD - Occupational Therapy, Chatham University (2019)
- MOT - Occupational Therapy, Dominican University of California (2012)
- BS - Brain, Behavior, and Cognitive Sciences, University of Michigan (2008)
Contributions
- Bueby, J. "Completed review on textbook ancillaries for new edition of textbook." Neuroscience: Exploring the brain (4th ed.). Jones & Bartlett Learning.
- Bueby, J. (2021). Book Review: Powerful Practice: A Model for Authentic Occupational Therapy [Review of Powerful Practice: A Model for Authentic Occupational Therapy by Fisher, A. G., & Marterella, A.. (1 ed.,vol. 4,pp. 3). London: Occupational Therapy in Health Care- Taylor & Francis.
Presentations
- Engja, J. & (2024). Networking Sessions- Evidence-based Practice and Supporting Student Projects During Level II FW. Lecture. MOTEC Fieldwork Educator Days Spring 2024. Grand Valley State University .
- Engja, J. (2024). Applying Universal Learning Design to Curriculum. Lecture. OT Faculty Meeting. CUAA.
- Engja, J. & Frampton, R. (2024). Gaps in Interprofessional Education for End-of-life Care. Poster. Health Professions Education Day 2024. University of Michigan League.
- Engja, J. & (2023). Accommodations in Fieldwork. Lecture. MOTEC Fieldwork Educator Days Fall 2023. Macomb Community College.
- Engja, J. & (2023). Administrative Updates. Lecture. MOTEC Fieldwork Educator Days Fall 2023. Macomb Community College.
Research Interests
- OT Tole in Hospice Care in PA, NP, and MD/DO Academic Programs
- Lifestyle Redesign for Chronic Pain Management
Teaching Interests
- Bridging the gap between the classroom and clinical application
- Topics in neurorehabilitation
Claire Adeline Haglund
PhD, LMSW, MMT
Assistant Professor
Office: Krieger 105
Phone: (734) 995-7446
Bio
Professor Haglund earned her PhD from the Institute for Clinical Social Work. She also works in the field clinically, focusing on trauma, grief/loss, and chronic illness.
Education
- Ph D - Clinical Social Work , Institute for Clinical Social Work (2023)
- MS - Social Work , Wayne State University (2015)
- BS - Social Work, Music Therapy, Women and Gender Studies , Eastern Michigan University (2014)
Research Interests
- Psychodynamic Theory
- Music Therapy
Teaching Interests
- Research
- Clinical Social Work and Social Justice Intersections
Reggie Kehoe
OTD, OTR/L
Assistant Professor
Office: Science Building 112
Education
- OTD - Occupational Therapy, University of Toledo (2014)
- BA - Exercise Science, Adrian College (2011)
Research Interests
- Imagery
- Mental Practice
Melissa Kieffer
PT, DPT, GCS
Assistant Professor
Phone: (734) 995-3466
Bio
Dr. Kieffer earned her Doctorate in Physical Therapy in 2007. She has worked in several practice settings including inpatient, subacute rehab, emergency care, outpatient, and homecare creating diverse clinical experiences. Dr. Kieffer also has experience teaching at a physical therapist assistant program. In 2017, Dr. Kieffer earned a Board Certification in Geriatrics with the APTA. Currently, Dr. Kieffer is a PhD candidate at Youngstown University.
Education
- DPT - Doctor of Physical Therapy, Daemen College (2007)
- BS - Natural Science, Daemen College (2005)
Research Interests
- Healthy Aging
- Fall prevention
Teaching Interests
- Integumentary care
- Cardiovascular and Pulmonary Rehabilitation
Sheena Long
PT, DPT, MSAT, ATC
Director of Clinical Education, Assistant Professor
Office: Ann Arbor North Building 307
Phone: (734) 995-7511
Bio
I enjoy wellness adventures which includes being out in nature with my camera taking photos of landscape, wildlife, pets, and sports action shots.
Education
- DPT - Doctor of Physical Therapy, Shenandoah University (2010)
- MS - Athletic Training, Shenandoah University (2010)
- BA - Exercise and Sports Science, University of San Francisco (2006)
Research Interests
- Emergency Action Planning in Sports Medicine
- Risk Management
Teaching Interests
- Sports Medicine
- Emergency Action Planning
April Anne Martino
MS, PA-C
Assistant Professor
Office: Ann Arbor North Building 264
Phone: (734) 995-7445
Bio
April A. Martino graduated from Grand Valley State University with a Biomedical Science degree and Master of Physician Assistant Medicine. Clinical areas of interest include pediatric human growth and development, rehabilitation, and functional medicine. Ongoing research and fellowship with the American Academy of Manipulative Therapy (AAMT) and Doctor of Medical Science at Butler University with an emphasis on orthopedic medicine, and Musculoskeletal Ultrasound Fellowship. Full time principal faculty, chair of admissions, and assistant professor with Concordia University's Physician Assistant/Associate Program.
Education
- MPAS - Physician Assistant Studies, Grand Valey State University (2001)
- BS - Biomedical Science, Grand Valley State University (2000)
Research Interests
- Functional Medicine
- Somatic Dysfunction
Teaching Interests
- Physician Assistant Studies
- Clinical Medicine; Medical Decision Making and Clinical Skills
Emily Paul
OTD, MOT, OTRL
Assistant Professor
Phone: (734) 995-7595
Education
- OTD - Occupational Therapy, Chatham University (2020)
- MOT - Occupational Therapy, Baker College of Graduate Studies (2014)
- BS - Psychology, Kennesaw State University (2001)
Research Interests
- The decline of Kindergarten readiness skills
- The connection between the vestibular system and ADHD
Teaching Interests
- Pediatric Evaluation and Treatment in Occupational Therapy
- Psychosocial and Emotional Aspects of Occupational Therapy
Sarah Renner
Ph.D., MS, OTR/L, RYT
Assistant Professor
Office: Ann Arbor North Building 305
Phone: (734) 995-7361
Bio
Dr. Renner has been a practicing occupational therapist since 2013, spending a large part of her clinical career as a traveling therapist. She finished her Ph.D. in 2021 with a research focus on complementary health approaches and integrative health practices among occupational therapists.
Education
- Ph D - Interdisciplinary Health Sciences, Western Michigan University (2021)
- MOT - Occupational Therapy, Western Michigan University (2012)
- BS - Interdisciplinary Health Services, Western Michigan University (2011)
Research Interests
- Complementary Health Approaches and Integrative Health (CHAIH) practices
- Holistic Approaches in OT Practice
Teaching Interests
- Research (Qualitative/Quantitative)
- Holistic Integration
Dale Everette Russell
DMSc, MS, PA-C, BS AEMT
Program Director - Interim - Physician Assistant Studies, Assistant Professor
Office: Health Services 308
Phone: (734) 995-7489
Bio
I have been a licensed PA for 32 years in the specialty of Emergency Medicine. My degrees are BS PA from WMU, MS PA from Univ. of Nebraska, Lincoln and a DMSc from Lynchburg University. I teach Skills, Patient Care, and Emergency Medicine.
Education
- DM - Doctorate, Urgent Care Medicine , Lynchburg University (2018)
- MS - MSPAS, University Of Nebraska, Lincoln Medical (1996)
- BS - Paramedic, Pre-med/PA, Madonna University (1996)
- Paramedicine, Lansing Community College (1986)
Research Interests
- Continuity in PA Program Prerequisites
- Start up of a Doctoral PA program (here at Concordia)
Teaching Interests
- Emergency Medicine
- Clinical Skills
Emily Sliger
PT, DPT
Assistant Director - Clinical Education, Assistant Professor
Office: Ann Arbor North Building 264
Phone: (734) 995-7381
Education
- DPT - Physical Therapy, Loma Linda University (2019)
Jeff Smith
OTD, OTRL, MSOT, BS
Assistant Professor
Office: Ann Arbor North Building 301
Phone: (734) 995-7327
Bio
I am a Michigan native from the "downriver" area. I have been practicing occupational therapy since 2015. I was introduced to occupational therapy as a child as my mother was a certified occupational therapy assistant. I have experience in adult and geriatric rehabilitation.
Education
- DOT - Occupational Therapy, University of South Dakota (2020)
- MOT - Occupational Therapy, Saginaw Valley State University (2014)
- BS - Health Science, Saginaw Valley State University (2012)
Research Interests
- Occupational Therapy Advocacy
- The Relationship Between Leisure and Health
Teaching Interests
- Neurological Rehabilitation
- Adult Rehabilitation
Timothy Spedoske
M.D.
- Medical Director
Education
- MD - Human Medicine, Michigan State University (1999)
Susannah L. Steele
PT, PCS
Director - Interim - Physical Therapy, Assistant Professor
Office: Ann Arbor North Building 315A
Phone: (734) 995-7472
Bio
Dr. Steele has been a practicing clinical PT since 1999 largely focused on pediatrics and actively teaching in DPT programs since 2014.
Education
- DPT - Physical Therapy , Boston University (2008)
- MS - Physical Therapy , Grand Valley State University (1999)
- BS - Physiology, Michigan State University (1996)
Research Interests
- PT educational practices and assessment
- Contemporary teaching and learning practices in higher education
Teaching Interests
- Pediatrics in Physical Therapy
- Neurology in Physical Therapy
Katherine Young
MPAS, PA-C
Director of Clinical Education - Physicians Assistant Studies - CUAA, Clinical Assistant Professor
Office: Ann Arbor North Building 314
Phone: (734) 995-7306
Bio
I am passionate about sharing my clinical experience with the next generation of Physician Assistants and showing Christ's love where He places me to serve.
Education
- MPAS - Physician Assistant Studies, University of Florida (2004)
- BS - Biochemistry, Calvin College (2001)
Research Interests
- Emotional Wellbeing in Dementia
Teaching Interests
- Cardiology
- Geriatrics
Adjunct Faculty
Katrena Daun Froh
Adjunct Professor
Phone: (616) 780-7143
Bio
Katrena Froh is a child life specialist at Helen DeVos Children's Hospital in Grand Rapids, Michigan. Katrena earned her bachelor's degree from Grand Valley State University and her master's in Family and Consumer Sciences from Western Michigan University. She is certified in infant massage and child passenger safety. Katrena is honored to educate and mentor future child life specialists and looks forward to sharing her experience with students.
Education
- MA - Family and Consumer Sciences, Western Michigan University (2019)
- BS - Psychology, Grand Valley State University (2013)
Research Interests
- Procedural Support for Pediatric Patients
- Nonpharmacological Pain Management for Children
- Infant Massage
Teaching Interests
- Infant Mental Health
- Pain Management
- Procedural Support for Pediatric Patiens
Kara K. Kastamo
CCLS
Child Life Program Coordinator, Adjunct Professor
Office: Krieger 115
Phone: (734) 995-7426
Bio
Kara is the Child Life Program Coordinator. She supports the graduate and undergraduate Child Life students while also serving as an adjunct professor at CUAA. Kara worked as a Certified Child Life Specialist at C.S. Mott Children’s Hospital for 10 years. In the last 2.5 years at Mott she provided administrative support to the department. Kara is also a mom to three beautiful children.
Education
- MS - Organizational Leadership and Healthcare Administration, Concordia University Wisconsin (2019)
- BA - Family Life Education and Child Life, Concordia University Ann Arbor (2009)
Research Interests
- Child Development
- Mental Health
- ACES in children
Teaching Interests
- Trauma informed care
- Bereavement
- Self-care
Julie Piazza
Adjunct Professor
Phone: (734) 368-2907
Bio
A Certified Child Life Specialist and educator for over 30 years serving both pediatric inpatients and outpatients and their families in large academic medical centers, Julie Piazza has collaborated with numerous multidisciplinary teams to facilitate and research patient and family centered initiatives hospital and system-wide. Many of these now global initiatives have been related to reducing pain and anxiety with needlesticks and procedures.
Education
- MS - Child Life Administration, Wheelock College (now Boston University) (1984)
- BS - Child Development, Iowa State University (1981)
Research Interests
- Non-pharmacological pain management
- Pediatric Care
Teaching Interests
- Child Life
- Healthcare Leadership
- Community and Public Health
Lauren Thomas
M.A.
Adjunct Professor
Phone: (734) 355-2634
Bio
Lauren Thomas has been a Certified Child Life Specialist for 17 years. She currently works as a Manager for The Child and Family Life Department at C.S. Mott Children’s Hospital. She has served as a child life specialist for medical missions in Nicaragua, India, and Mozambique as a member of Operation Smile. In addition to her clinical and leadership experience, Lauren has enjoyed teaching child life focused courses at Concordia since 2008.
Education
- MA - Child Development-Child Life Specialist Concentration, University of Akron (2004)
- BA - Social Psychology, Western Michigan University (2002)
Teaching Interests
- Introduction to Child Life
- Diversity, Equity and Inclusion
- Childhood Trauma and Resilience