A new academic year has begun and the faculty, staff, and students of Samson College of Health Sciences have been busily involved in many exciting projects. I’d like to share some of our current activities and projects, and what we have planned for the coming semester:
The newly re-named Exercise Science and Wellness Management Program had its name approved by the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania at the end of the 2009 Spring Semester. As a result, students entering this fall will have the new name on their diplomas. Additionally, the program purchased, its most state-of-the-art piece of equipment to-date: the BOD POD. An important acquisition, the BOD POD is used by leading universities, sports teams, fitness clubs, military organizations, and weight management centers to determine body composition in adults and children. The Program’s BOD POD is one of only three such pieces of equipment in the Delaware Valley - one of which is owned by the Eagles football team, so we are in very good company. In addition to use for students’ education, the BOD POD is also being used for University sports team assessments, and for faculty and students who wish to take a step towards more healthy living.
Faculty, staff, and students are looking forward, with great anticipation, to the dedication event for Samson College of Health Sciences on Nov. 11, 2009. Longtime friend, honorary alumnus, and trustee of the University Marvin Samson will have lunch with Samson College students from each program and be honored at a reception in the afternoon. Additionally, faculty members and students will supply scholarly posters of joint research endeavors in the lobby of the McNeil STC, where the reception will be held.
The Physical Therapy Department held its annual white coat ceremony on Sept. 13, 2009, and welcomed 51 students into to the professional phase of their education. The keynote speaker was Dr. Ivan J. Mulligan, president of the Pennsylvania Physical Therapy Association, and students were feted at a reception following the ceremony.
Samson College of Health Sciences will soon celebrate National Allied Health Week, which runs Nov. 1-7. On Nov. 5, from 1-3 p.m., in honor of the allied health professions, SCHS students will offer free professional health-related services on campus, including cholesterol testing, blood pressure testing, flexibility testing, backpack testing, and massages. You’ll spot the SCHS students by their green pins proclaiming “I am a Samson College Health Professional.”
Samson College of Health Sciences has announced the appointment of Dr. Mickey Cohen, associate professor in the OT and PT Departments, as associate dean for research and scholarship. Dr. Cohen, who also serves as president of the faculty senate, has a long history as a facilitator and director of research in both clinical and academic settings. In her capacity as associate dean, she will help create a research infrastructure for SCHS, and will mentor faculty with the goal of increasing research, scholarship, and grant submissions.
This is only a snapshot of the many activities and achievements currently happening and being planned within Samson College of Health Sciences, and we’re looking forward to another successful and busy year ahead.