2025-2026 Cohort Projects Occupational Therapy Doctorate Capstone

SABRINA COLESCOTT

The Quiet Strength: Mind Body Practices for Oncology Care

Capstone Description: Oncology inpatients often experience fatigue, pain, and emotional distress that limit engagement in meaningful activities and affect quality of life. This capstone project explores how occupational therapy-led mind-body interventions can improve the inpatient experience at UCHealth Anschutz and enhance participation in meaningful daily activities for oncology patients.

Doctoral Capstone Partner: UCHealth Anschutz – Bone Marrow Transplant/Oncology Unit

Doctoral Capstone Mentor: Annie Stiver

Faculty Mentor: Dr. Michelle LeRoy

Doctoral Capstone Coordinator: Dr. Julie Silver Seidle

KAYLIE CROZIER

Motivational Interviewing for Social Participation in Parkinson’s Disease

Capstone Description: This capstone supports Dr. Laura Swink’s research on improving social participation among individuals with Parkinson’s disease through social prescriptions and motivational interviewing (MI). The project will develop a training program for research assistants to deliver MI follow-up, expanding capacity, improving consistency and quality of contact, and increasing long-term adherence to prescribed social engagement activities.

Doctoral Capstone Partner: Colorado State University – Department of Occupational Therapy

Doctoral Capstone Mentor: Dr. Laura Swink

Faculty Mentor: Dr. Aaron Eakman

Doctoral Capstone Coordinator: Dr. Julie Silver Seidle

IZZY DODGE

Balancing Screens and Sleep: A Family-Centered Occupational Therapy Approach to Screen Time and Pediatric Sleep Hygiene

Capstone Description: This capstone project addresses excessive screen time and its negative impacts on pediatric sleep hygiene, a key factor in children’s occupational performance and development. Using the Model of Human Occupation as a guiding framework, this project aims to create a family-centered educational toolkit that provides caregivers with strategies to reduce screen use and promote healthy sleep routines.

Doctoral Capstone Partner: Integrated Pediatric Therapy Associates

Doctoral Capstone Mentor: Gabby Javier

Faculty Mentor: Dr. Kara Alcorn-Borodach

Doctoral Capstone Coordinator: Julie Silver Seidle

MORGAN EGAN

Enhancing Peripartum Care through Acute Inpatient Rehabilitation Services at the University of Colorado Hospital

Capstone Description: This capstone project addresses the underutilization of occupational therapy (OT) services during the peripartum period, with a specific focus on supporting hospitalized antepartum patients experiencing high risk pregnancies. This project aims to bridge these service gaps through the development of a sustainable OT program that includes a movement-based mindfulness component and patient-centered educational resource.

Doctoral Capstone Partner: University of Colorado Health Hospital – Aurora

Doctoral Capstone Mentor: Kirsten Prue

Faculty Mentor: Dr. Kara Alcorn-Borodach

Doctoral Capstone Coordinator: Dr. Julie Silver Seidle

KAITLIN EILTS

Empowered Engagement: An Occupational Therapy Group Curriculum for Chronic Pain Self-Management

Capstone Description: Chronic pain affects over 24% of adults in the United States, often resulting in reduced occupational participation, poor mental health, and diminished quality of life. This capstone project aims to address this gap by developing and evaluating an occupation-based group intervention that empowers individuals with chronic pain to manage their symptoms and re-engage in meaningful daily activities.

Doctoral Capstone Partner: Empowered Path Occupational Therapy

Doctoral Capstone Mentor: Katy Owens

Faculty Mentor: Dr. Aaron Eakman

Doctoral Capstone Coordinator: Dr. Julie Silver Seidle

ALEXIS GOMEZ-VARGAS

Enhancing Inclusion: The Impact of OT-Informed Education on Instructors Supporting Students with Autism Spectrum Disorder

Capstone Description: This capstone supports i-PLAY, an adapted physical activity program at the University of Limerick for children and youth with autism. The project addresses instructors’ training gaps by developing occupational therapy informed resources, including a presentation, sensory toolkit, and training video—to support inclusive, developmentally appropriate participation.

Doctoral Capstone Partner: University of Limerick

Doctoral Capstone Mentors: Brigitte Moody and Dr. Sean Healy

Faculty Mentor: Dr. Jaewon Kang

Doctoral Capstone Coordinator: Dr. Julie Silver Seidle

STEPHANIE GRABLE

Inclusive Faith-Based Learning: Enhancing Participation for Children with Developmental Disabilities

Capstone Description: This capstone project addresses the need for inclusive religious education by modifying a Sunday school curriculum and training program tailored for children with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) and their volunteer teachers. This capstone demonstrates how occupational therapy principles can enrich faith-based settings, expanding community participation for children with IDD while empowering volunteers to serve more effectively.

Doctoral Capstone Partner: Overland Church

Doctoral Capstone Mentor: Sherri Gentz

Faculty Mentor: Dr. Kara Alcorn-Borodach

Doctoral Capstone Coordinator: Dr. Julie Silver Seidle

BRIANA GUBLER

Prepared and Empowered

Capstone Description: For my capstone project, I am creating a job readiness program for the Salt Lake City Mission to utilize for their unsheltered population. The purpose of this project is to increase confidence and skills in obtaining employment for their clients. The goal of this project is to create an impactful job readiness program.

Doctoral Capstone Partner: Salt Lake City Mission

Doctoral Capstone Mentors: Pastor Shawn Clay

Faculty Mentor: Dr. Michelle LeRoy

Doctoral Capstone Coordinator: Dr. Julie Silver Seidle

HELEN HALEY

Improving Access and Participation for Adaptive Snowsports Athletes Through Occupational Therapy-Informed Ski Patrol Education

Capstone Description: This capstone project aims to reduce environmental barriers to participation in adaptive snowsports by enhancing the preparedness of ski patrollers at Eldora Mountain Resort. In collaboration with Ignite Adaptive Sports, the project develops and delivers occupational therapy-informed education to Eldora Ski Patrol, focusing on disability awareness, adaptive equipment, inclusive communication, and emergency protocols.

Doctoral Capstone Partner: Ignite Adaptive Sports

Doctoral Capstone Mentor: Kevin Wilson

Faculty Mentor: Dr. Aaron Eakman

Doctoral Capstone Coordinator: Dr. Julie Silver Seidle

JULIENNE HARRIS-MCMASTER

Bridging the Gap Between Mental Health and Rehabilitation: Strategies to Support Occupational Therapists in Neurological Acute Care

Capstone Description: This capstone addresses gaps in occupational therapists’ training and resources for integrating mental health care into acute neurological rehabilitation. The project aims to strengthen occupational therapists’ confidence by providing refined, practical mental health approaches that support psychological well-being alongside physical recovery in neurological populations.

Doctoral Capstone Partner: UCHealth Anschutz Inpatient Acute Care

Doctoral Capstone Mentor: Margaret Reis, Jennifer Kucera, Dr. Janell Pisegna

Faculty Mentor: Dr. Jaewon Kang

Doctoral Capstone Coordinator: Dr. Julie Silver Seidle

BREELYNN HILFERTY

Community-Based Engagement for Adults with Intellectual Disabilities

Capstone Description: This capstone project will address the nature of the problem that there are limited, meaningful community-based engagement opportunities for transition-aged adults with intellectual disabilities (ID). The capstone project will promote social and educational opportunities while providing opportunities to develop self-determination for transition-aged adults with ID through educating future occupational therapy fieldwork students.

Doctoral Capstone Partner: Colorado State University – RAM Scholars

Doctoral Capstone Mentors: Kaylyn Van Deusen and Deborah Fidler

Faculty Mentor: Dr. Aaron Eakman

Doctoral Capstone Coordinator: Dr. Julie Silver Seidle

BAYLEE HODSON

OT Pathways Kit: Expanding Access and Awareness Through Early Career Exploration

Capstone Description: This capstone project centers on creating the OT Pathways Kit, a career exploration resource designed to increase awareness of occupational therapy among high school and undergraduate students. It emphasizes reaching historically underrepresented populations through engaging, accessible materials that present occupational therapy as a meaningful and attainable career path.

Doctoral Capstone Partner: Colorado State University – Department of Occupational Therapy

Doctoral Capstone Mentor: Caroline Bilsky

Faculty Mentor: Dr. Kara Alcorn-Borodach

Doctoral Capstone Coordinator: Dr. Julie Silver Seidle

LAURA KAMRADT

Effective Instructional Strategies for Teaching Technology Use to Older Adults

Capstone Description: The purpose of this capstone project is to determine the most effective instructional strategies to support older adults in learning to use complex technology for remote home assessments, with the goal of enhancing access to occupational therapy services. Based on the project findings, the project will help become the guideline for future projects.

Doctoral Capstone Partner: Colorado State University – Department of Occupational Therapy

Doctoral Capstone Mentor: Dr. Jaewon Kang

Faculty Mentor: Dr. Jaewon Kang

Doctoral Capstone Coordinator: Dr. Julie Silver Seidle

BREANNE KEMP

ACCESS: Advancing Classroom Capacity for Every Student with Supportive Strategies

Capstone Description: This doctoral capstone equips educators with knowledge, strategies, and resources to confidently support students living with brain injuries. The project features a user-friendly, evidence-based website offering practical strategies and curated resources to advance inclusion, promote meaningful participation, and foster academic success while building educator confidence and brain-injury informed practice.

Doctoral Capstone Partner: Greeley-Evans School District 6

Doctoral Capstone Mentor: Erin Coram

Faculty Mentor: Dr. Kara Alcorn-Borodach

Doctoral Capstone Coordinator: Dr. Julie Silver Seidle

KATIE KIEFER

Increasing Outdoor Accessibility and Occupational Participation for Neurodiverse Youth Through Rock Climbing

Capstone Description: This capstone develops an inclusive outdoor rock-climbing program for neurodiverse youth at Peaks & Bounds, Inc. The project increases access to outdoor recreation by integrating sensory supports and graded exposure strategies, modifying the program environment, and feasibility testing curriculum design to promote participation, resilience, and social connection.

Doctoral Capstone Partner: Peaks & Bounds, Inc.

Doctoral Capstone Mentors: Emily Tull and Emily Grieb

Faculty Mentor: Dr. Jaewon Kang

Doctoral Capstone Coordinator: Dr. Julie Silver Seidle

MADIGAN KLEPPE

Holistic Pelvic Therapy: Establishing OT in Pelvic Health Through Advocacy and Health Promotion

Capstone Description: To address the complex needs of people with pelvic floor disfunction, a multidisciplinary approach to pelvic rehabilitation is essential. However, occupational therapy’s (OT) role in this setting remains underrepresented. This capstone aims to support OT practice in a pelvic health clinic in the Fort Collins area, through resource development, health promotion, and advocacy strategies.

Doctoral Capstone Partner: The Happy Pelvis

Doctoral Capstone Mentor: Jennifer Fyhrie

Faculty Mentor: Dr. Kara Alcorn-Borodach

Doctoral Capstone Coordinator: Dr. Julie Silver Seidle

MEGAN LIERZ

Centering Autonomy and Connection in Adolescent Crisis Stabilization

Capstone Description: Addressing the occupational needs of adolescents in crisis stabilization, this capstone project introduces a discharge toolkit and supportive trauma-informed, playful occupational therapy interventions designed for implementation at SummitStone Health Partners’ adolescent unit.

Doctoral Capstone Partner: SummitStone Health Partners.

Doctoral Capstone Mentor: Molly Gleason

Faculty Mentor: Dr. Kara Alcorn-Borodach

Doctoral Capstone Coordinator: Dr. Julie Silver Seidle

ANNIKA LIGON

Outdoor Elements, Indoor Impact: Indoor Nature-Based Occupational Therapy Interventions in an Outpatient Pediatric Clinic

Capstone Description: Nature-based occupational therapy is an emerging practice supported by research linking nature engagement to children’s development, health, and well-being. However, little literature examines nature-inspired interventions delivered within traditional indoor clinics. This capstone establishes an indoor nature-based program in a pediatric outpatient setting, bringing the benefits of nature into the clinical therapy environment.

Doctoral Capstone Partner: Colorado In Motion Kids!

Doctoral Capstone Mentor: Terah Perran

Faculty Mentor: Dr. Aaron Eakman

Doctoral Capstone Coordinator: Dr. Julie Silver Seidle

HAELEY LOVELL

Manual Creation for High School Transition Program

Capstone Description: Students with disabilities often face limited choices and autonomy when transitioning from high school to adulthood. To address this concern, a pilot program through Poudre School District hopes to empower students by directly involving them in their post-secondary planning process. My capstone project will support this program by developing a manual/handbook that guides and documents the process.

Doctoral Capstone Partner: The ARC of Larimer County and Poudre School District

Doctoral Capstone Mentor: Anais Campbell

Faculty Mentor: Dr. Kara Alcorn-Borodach

Doctoral Capstone Coordinator: Dr. Julie Silver Seidle

SHELBIE MARTELLO

Evaluate the preliminary impact of the Occupational Therapy for Mental Health and Engagement (OT for ME) on occupational therapy practitioner knowledge, attitudes, self-efficacy, and initial adoption. A convergent mixed methods study

Capstone Description: This doctoral capstone investigates occupational therapy practitioners’ knowledge, attitudes, self-efficacy, and initial adoption of mental health screening and intervention practices to address mental health among individuals with acquired brain injury.

Doctoral Capstone Partner: Colorado State University – Department of Occupational Therapy

Doctoral Capstone Mentor: Dr. Janell Pisegna

Faculty Mentor: Dr. Kara Alcorn-Borodach

Doctoral Capstone Coordinator: Dr. Julie Silver Seidle

HEATHER MEINING

Dementia Communication and Care Training Program

Capstone Description: This project centers on the development and implementation of a dementia communication and care training program at EmpowerMe Wellness across independent living, assisted living, and memory care communities.

Doctoral Capstone Partner: EmpowerMe Wellness

Doctoral Capstone Mentor: Michelle Anderson

Faculty Mentor: Dr. Kara Alcorn-Borodach

Doctoral Capstone Coordinator: Dr. Julie Silver Seidle

ETHAN MONTROSE

Transition Timing – The Introduction of Transition Services at Younger Ages

Capstone Description: This capstone project aims to address critical gaps in traditional transition services for students with disabilities by focusing on the implementation of proactive, individualized supports prior to age 16. The goal is to create an informative program for the Poudre School District Community Transition Team (PSD-CTT) that promotes early engagement in the transition process.

Doctoral Capstone Partner: Poudre School District Transition Pathways

Doctoral Capstone Mentor: Emilie Ring

Faculty Mentor: Dr. Michelle LeRoy

Doctoral Capstone Coordinator: Dr. Julie Silver Seidle

MORGAN OFFERMAN

Moments that Matter: Enhancing End-of-Life Dementia Care Through Occupation and Sensory Connection

Capstone Description: This capstone project aims to address the underrepresentation of individuals with dementia in hospice care by developing an educational program for hospice staff and caregivers. The program will focus on sensory-based, non-pharmacological interventions designed to enhance comfort, dignity, and meaningful engagement for individuals with dementia receiving end-of-life (EOL) care.

Doctoral Capstone Partner: Pathways Hospice

Doctoral Capstone Mentor: Brooke Rambold and Heather Skirvin

Faculty Mentor: Dr. Kara Alcorn-Borodach

Doctoral Capstone Coordinator: Dr. Julie Silver Seidle

ELIZABETH OGG

Assessing the need for a northern Colorado Occupational Therapy Assistant Program: What are factors that indicate a need?

Capstone Description: This capstone project assesses the need for an Occupational Therapy Assistant (OTA) program in northern Colorado to increase access and promote diversity within the occupational therapy profession. By applying evidence-based frameworks and inclusive inquiry, this project aims to support future consideration of a localized, cost-effective COTA program that enhances occupational justice, health equity, and workforce diversity.

Doctoral Capstone Partner: Colorado State University – Department of Occupational Therapy

Doctoral Capstone Mentor: Dr. Lorie Barker and Dr. Kim Schoessow-Aldaz

Faculty Mentor: Dr. Michelle LeRoy

Doctoral Capstone Coordinator: Dr. Julie Silver Seidle

CHARLES OLSON

Unlocking Efficiency: Occupational Therapists’ Readiness to Adopt Assistive Technology for Clinical Documentation

Capstone Description: The goal of this capstone is to explore the perceptions, facilitators, and barriers that influence licensed occupational therapists’ readiness to implement assistive technology specifically generative AI tools for documentation, and to generate actionable, evidence-based recommendations that support ethical, client-centered adoption.

Doctoral Capstone Partner: Colorado State University – Department of Occupational Therapy

Doctoral Capstone Mentor: Dr. Jaewon Kang

Faculty Mentor: Dr. Jaewon Kang

Doctoral Capstone Coordinator: Dr. Julie Silver Seidle

SOFIA ORTIZ CABRERA

EmpowerED: Sexual Education & Support for All

Capstone Description: The goal of this capstone project is to develop a comprehensive, inclusive sexual education program that empowers young adults with IDD to build knowledge, confidence, and skills for engaging in safe, healthy, and intimate relationships.

Doctoral Capstone Partner: SAVA (Sexual Assault Victim Advocate) Center

Doctoral Capstone Mentor: Kaylea Hougnon

Faculty Mentor: Dr. Michelle LeRoy

Doctoral Capstone Coordinator: Dr. Julie Silver Seidle

SARAH PARSONS

Be YOU: Body, Belonging & Becoming YOU

Capstone Description: This capstone project will be completed in collaboration with Free to Be Wellness Center. The project addresses critical gaps in sexual health education for adolescents. The project will implement a two-session, developmentally appropriate workshop series covering puberty, menstruation, body literacy, consent, boundaries, gender identity, online safety, and relationship and sexual health basics.

Doctoral Capstone Partner: Free To Be Wellness Center

Doctoral Capstone Mentor: Jaime Carden-O’Brien

Faculty Mentor: Dr. Jaewon Kang

Doctoral Capstone Coordinator: Dr. Julie Silver Seidle

MADISON POST

Go, Reflect, Observe, Wonder (GROW): Enhancing the Mind-Body Connection in Children Through Nature

Capstone Description: This capstone integrates nature-based mindfulness interventions into the Let’s Grow OuTside camp to support self-regulation in elementary-aged children. In partnership with Beyond Boundaries Therapy and Wellness, the project develops an evidence-based curriculum addressing gaps in mindfulness programming to promote prosocial behavior and reduce impulsivity.

Doctoral Capstone Partner: Beyond Boundaries Therapy and Wellness

Doctoral Capstone Mentor: Joni Hjalmquist

Faculty Mentor: Dr. Kara Alcorn-Borodach

Doctoral Capstone Coordinator: Dr. Julie Silver Seidle

AMBER PRISTAS

Bridging Practice: An Occupational Therapy-Informed Sensory Toolkit for Speech-Language Pathologists

Capstone Description: This capstone project addresses a critical gap in interdisciplinary collaboration between occupational therapy and speech-language pathology by developing a sensory toolkit to support speech-language pathologists in effectively integrating sensory strategies into their therapy sessions.

Doctoral Capstone Partner: Breakthrough Therapy Services

Doctoral Capstone Mentor: Jessica Arboleya

Faculty Mentor: Dr. Michelle LeRoy

Doctoral Capstone Coordinator: Dr. Julie Silver Seidle

EMMA RICHARDSON

Enhancing Occupational Therapy Support for Neurodivergent Adolescents During Puberty

Capstone Description: This project addresses occupational disruptions faced by neurodivergent adolescents during puberty, including sensory regulation, menstruation, emotional regulation, and safety. Partnering with Gather and Grow Therapy Services, the student will observe occupational therapy practices, deliver staff training, and develop evidence-informed interventions guided by the OPPM and Kawa models to promote inclusion and occupational engagement.

Doctoral Capstone Partner: Gather and Grow Therapy Services.

Doctoral Capstone Mentor: Molly Forney

Faculty Mentor: Dr. Aaron Eakman

Doctoral Capstone Coordinator: Dr. Julie Silver Seidle

GILLIAN RINEHART

Promoting Social Participation Through Dating for Neurodiverse Adults

Capstone Description: This capstone project aims to develop a comprehensive set of educational modules to support neurodiverse individuals in navigating the complexities of dating. The goal is to create a series of interactive, evidence-based modules that occupational therapy practitioners can use to guide neurodiverse clients in achieving their dating goals.

Doctoral Capstone Partner: Colorado State University – Center for Community Partnerships – Belong Program

Doctoral Capstone Mentor: Devin Barth and Lynn Grasso

Faculty Mentor: Dr. Kara Alcorn-Borodach

Doctoral Capstone Coordinator: Dr. Julie Silver Seidle

HALLIE SHERIDAN

Occupational Therapy Embedded in Early Childhood Education Training Course

Capstone Description: Early intervention (EI) is critical in promoting young children’s development, particularly when services are embedded within natural environments and prioritize family-centered, collaborative approaches. Despite strong evidence supporting these practices, systemic barriers continue to limit the effectiveness and accessibility of EI services. This doctoral capstone project addresses these challenges by developing an educational deliverable for occupational therapy practitioners.

Doctoral Capstone Partner: Colorado State University – Department of Occupational Therapy

Doctoral Capstone Mentor: Dr. Lisa Fyffe

Faculty Mentor: Dr. Kara Alcorn-Borodach

Doctoral Capstone Coordinator: Dr. Julie Silver Seidle

HANNAH SIMON

Peer-matching for Neurodivergent Young Adults

Capstone Description: Neurodivergent young adults (NDYA) face ongoing social challenges that impact their health, identity, and well-being. Despite a strong desire for connection, many NDYAs experience loneliness and social isolation. This capstone project proposes the design and evaluation of a structured peer-matching program, Peer Matching for NDYA, to enhance social participation and self-efficacy through interest-based connections.

Doctoral Capstone Partner: Colorado State University – Center for Community Partnerships – Belong Program

Doctoral Capstone Mentor: Devin Barth

Faculty Mentor: Dr. Aaron Eakman

Doctoral Capstone Coordinator: Dr. Julie Silver Seidle

ABBY SMITH

Bridging the Gap: The Role of Occupational Therapy in Acute Care Discharge Planning

Capstone Description: This capstone project explores the role of occupational therapy (OT) in acute care discharge planning. The capstone aims to produce a scholarly article that advocates for enhanced OT involvement in discharge planning and policy changes that address disparities and regulatory limitations.

Doctoral Capstone Partner: UCHealth Anschutz: Acute Care

Doctoral Capstone Mentor: Amanda Hoffman

Faculty Mentor: Dr. Kara Alcorn-Borodach

Doctoral Capstone Coordinator: Dr. Julie Silver Seidle

GRACE SONDERMAN

The Role of Occupational Therapy in Pelvic Health: A State-of-the-Art Review

Capstone Description: This state-of-the-art review explores occupational therapy’s role in pelvic health. By highlighting occupational therapists’ whole-person approach to pelvic floor dysfunction, this project validates the profession’s unique value and defines a clear path for the profession’s future expansion within multidisciplinary care teams.

Doctoral Capstone Partner: Colorado State University

Doctoral Capstone Mentor: Ashleigh Tarango

Faculty Mentor: Dr. Michelle LeRoy

Doctoral Capstone Coordinator: Dr. Julie Silver Seidle

HAIDYN STAHL

Sensory Solutions: Empowering Parents to Support Their Child’s Occupational Engagement and Well-being Through Free Educational Workshops

Capstone Description: Children with sensory processing difficulties experience challenges in daily occupations. Caregivers play a role in supporting their child’s sensory needs but often face barriers to resources. This capstone project aims to enhance occupational performance, participation, and well-being of children with sensory processing difficulties by increasing caregiver knowledge and self-efficacy.

Doctoral Capstone Partner: Integrated Pediatric Therapy Associates

Doctoral Capstone Mentor: Nicole Summerson

Faculty Mentor: Dr. Aaron Eakman

Doctoral Capstone Coordinator: Dr. Julie Silver Seidle

KYNDAL STROSSNER

Prepared to Respond: Advancing Inclusive Practices in First Responder Training

Capstone Description: This capstone enhances emergency medical services (EMS) provider preparedness for patients experiencing sensory, communication, or behavioral regulation challenges during emergency encounters. Using a universal design approach, the project develops a structured training program focused on nervous system regulation, sensory modulation, and accessible communication, supporting consistent, sensory-informed care within Thompson Valley EMS.

Doctoral Capstone Partner: Thompson Valley EMS

Doctoral Capstone Mentor: David Edwards

Faculty Mentor: Dr. Aaron Eakman

Doctoral Capstone Coordinator: Dr. Julie Silver Seidle

MACKENZIE THOMPSON

Use of LEGO© Therapy to Promote Connection and Occupational Participation

Capstone Description: This capstone project aims to develop a structured LEGO-based therapy program to support social participation, emotional regulation, and executive functioning in children with developmental delays. Conducted at Light House Whole Health Therapy Center, the project integrates play-based occupational therapy principles, utilizing evidence-informed strategies grounded in the Model of Human Occupation and the Model of Children’s Play.

Doctoral Capstone Partner: Light House Whole Health Therapy Center

Doctoral Capstone Mentor: Dorothy Bauer

Faculty Mentor: Dr. Aaron Eakman

Doctoral Capstone Coordinator: Dr. Julie Silver Seidle

KYLA TOOLE-WELLS

My First Period Project: Increasing Youth Confidence and Readiness for Menarche

Capstone Description: The My First Period Project aims to strengthen students’ self-efficacy, improve menstrual hygiene management, and support long-term health outcomes in order to ensure that Colorado’s youth can manage their periods with dignity and with minimal disruption to daily life and school engagement.

Doctoral Capstone Partner: Justice Necessary

Doctoral Capstone Mentor: Diane Cushman Neal and Lauren Cikara

Faculty Mentor: Dr. Aaron Eakman

Doctoral Capstone Coordinator: Dr. Julie Silver Seidle

KELLY TRENT

Equine Assisted Learning Through an Occupational Therapy Lens: A Programmatic Perspective

Capstone Description: This capstone project explores the role of occupational therapy within an Equine Assisted Learning program at the Temple Grandin Equine Center. The project aims to support barn school students by addressing sensory regulation needs and enhancing occupational performance and participation through targeted environmental and activity-based interventions.

Doctoral Capstone Partner: Colorado State University – Temple Grandin Equine Center

Doctoral Capstone Mentor: Dr. Sharon Bulter

Faculty Mentor: Dr. Aaron Eakman

Doctoral Capstone Coordinator: Dr. Julie Silver Seidle

LAUREN VAN NOTE

Power of Play: Social Stories for Anxiety Relief in Children

Capstone Description Anxiety is a common mental health challenge among children and can significantly impact emotional regulation, social participation, and daily functioning. This capstone project aims to empower children ages 5-12 to manage anxiety by developing social stories that incorporate play and movement-based coping strategies.

Doctoral Capstone Partner: Integrated Pediatric Therapy Associates

Doctoral Capstone Mentor: Lindsey Messenger

Faculty Mentor: Dr. Michelle LeRoy

Doctoral Capstone Coordinator: Dr. Julie Silver Seidle

AMANDA WIMMER

Establishing Occupational Therapy in Postsecondary Education

Capstone Description: This capstone supports development and implementation of OT RENEWS, a program providing free occupational therapy services to Colorado State University students. The project addresses unmet needs related to mental health, life skills, academic participation, executive functioning, and role transitions to promote student engagement, resilience, and overall occupational performance.

Doctoral Capstone Partner: Colorado State University – Department of Occupational Therapy

Doctoral Capstone Mentor: Dr. Bianca Daugherty and Dr. Kim Schoessow-Aldaz

Faculty Mentor: Dr. Kara Alcorn-Borodach

Doctoral Capstone Coordinator: Dr. Julie Silver Seidle

JULIA ZORA

Inclusive Ministry: Equipping Volunteers to Support Children with Special Needs

Capstone Description: Children with special needs often encounter barriers to inclusion and participation. Research emphasizes that the true inclusion extends beyond physical presence. It requires emotional, social, and spiritual engagement. This capstone aims to address this gap by equipping volunteers at Mill City Church with the knowledge and tools necessary to support children with disabilities in the children’s ministry.

Doctoral Capstone Partner: Mill City Church

Doctoral Capstone Mentor: Jared Kidwell

Faculty Mentor: Dr. Michelle LeRoy

Doctoral Capstone Coordinator: Dr. Julie Silver Seidle