Professors Emeriti

The professors emeriti are esteemed leaders and renowned scholars in the occupational therapy profession. They have contributed substantively to clinical practice and/or research both nationally and internationally. The OT department proudly introduces and honors our professors emeriti.

Joanne Foss photo

Professor Emerita and former Program Director

Joanne J. Foss, PhD, OTR/L

Dr. Foss was the Program Director of Professional Programs in the Occupational Therapy Program. Dr. Foss has served as an investigator, author, and editor of a self-study program in Training of Occupational and Physical Therapist in Early Intervention Services (TOPSEI). Dr. Foss' research and education interests were in professional education and training, and pediatric assessment and intervention.

William Mann photo

Professor Emeritus and Past Chair

William C. Mann, PhD, OTR/L

Dr. Mann was a Distinguished Professor and Chair of Occupational Therapy, Director of the PhD Program in Rehabilitation Science at the University of Florida (UF), Director of the UF Center for Telehealth and Healthcare Communications, and Director of the Center of Innovation on Disability and Rehabilitation Research (CINDRR) at the North Florida/South Georgia Veterans Health System, Gainesville, FL. Dr. Mann had over 35 years of experience in rehabilitation and community-based programs, spanning research, service and education, with a focus on applying technology to promote independence.

Dr. Orit Shechtman photo

Professor Emerita

Orit Shechtman, PhD, OTR/L

Kay Walker photo

Professor Emerita and Past Chair

Kay Walker, PhD, OTR/L

Dr. Walker is a Professor Emerita in the department. Dr. Walker retired after serving as chair of the OT department from 1984 to 2000. She was the founder and original director of the Distance Learning Masters program.  Dr. Walker's research interests included topics related to neuro-development and sensory functions in children.

Mary Ellen Young photo

Professor Emerita

Mary Ellen Young, PhD

Dr. Young was a qualitative research specialist and Clinical Professor in the Department of Occupational Therapy. Her broad research interest were in biopsychosocial adaptation to chronic illness and disability. She taught and mentored both graduate students and undergraduate students, and was Teacher of the Year for the College of Public Health and Health Professions in 2012.