MILLIGAN COLLEGE — Milligan College’s occupational therapy program will present a research symposium on Monday, March 2, 4-7 p.m. at the college’s Thompson Center located on Emmanuel Hill. The conference is free and open to the public. Continuing education (CEU) is available for OT professionals in attendance.

The conference will feature a number of OT student research projects, including boxing’s effects on the quality of life for individuals with Parkinson’s disease, a needs-based assessment for AdaptoPlay on the need for adaptive toys in the Tri-Cities, a collaborative gardening program with Brother’s Keeper, and research on parent child interaction therapy for children with autism.

Students Harley Blevins and Kaylie Foster will present research on the need for adaptive toys and mobility devices in the region.

“Our research assessed how many children in a therapist’s case load would benefit from adapted mobility toys or mobility devices in our region,” said Blevins. “This research enriched what I have learned in my courses, including advanced pediatrics and assisted technology. It’s rewarding to know that our research can benefit AdaptoPlay, a local nonprofit, and children in our community.”

Milligan’s master’s level occupational therapy program prepares therapists to address the physical, psychological and cognitive aspects of a person’s well-being through engagement in activity in all of their environments. Learn more at milligan.edu/msot.