Produced annually by Duke OTD and Duke DPT, the impACT program hosted 10 area high school students on campus June 28-30. Through interactive sessions and fun challenges, attendees are exposed to healthy eating and behaviors, and the OT and PT professions.
Faculty members Tomeico Faison, OTD, OTR/L, and Cambey Mikush, OTD, ORT/L, worked with Tiffany Adams, PT, DPT, MBA, PhD on the program. OTD Class of 2025 student April Burch served as co-lead, along with DPT student Krissia Pocosangre.
Burch said impACT was a life-changing leadership opportunity.
“My hope for the participants to take away from this experience is that both occupational therapy (OT) and physical therapy (PT) offer ample opportunities for them to thrive and contribute and that their potential extends beyond these professions as well,” said Burch. “I take immense satisfaction in exposing them to the vast possibilities within both fields, enlightening them about the significance of activities of daily living (ADLs), and imparting knowledge about how even minor adjustments can make a significant difference in their overall well-being.”
OTD students were essential to the program’s hands-on learning and fun, including Katie Mayfield, Aubrey Enriquez, Virginia Quellmalz- Zallocco, Bianca Randleman, Briana Butts, Diona Boone, Tamara Mays, Rachel McWilliams, Danna Atway and Teneisha Phillips.
Burch said her favorite part was Friday’s Chopped Challenge, where teams competed in preparing a healthy lunch for the group.
“The energy in the room was incredible, and it was so much fun. The volunteers did a great job of keeping the activity enjoyable and exciting. It was one of the best and most memorable moments of the program,” she said. “Later that day, there was a T-shirt signing event where students reflected on their experiences. Seeing them sign my shirt and hearing how it was a highlight of their summer made me emotional. I was grateful to share that happiness with them.”
The program became a big part of Burch's life.
“I formed close relationships with my peers and learned a lot from the high school students too. It was impressive to see OTD and DPT students' ideas grow and watch them take on leadership roles alongside me. Working with Krissia was also enjoyable and taught me how to effectively incorporate both occupational therapy and physical therapy," she added.