The School of Health Professions (SHP) proudly hosted the inaugural orientation for the Doctor of Occupational Therapy (OTD) program at the UT Education and Research Center at Laredo (UT Center at Laredo) in Laredo, Texas. This significant milestone marks the launch of UTMB’s first hybrid occupational therapy program—and the first such program offered by a public university in Texas—representing a major step forward in expanding access to advanced health care education in medically underserved regions.
The event brought together university leadership and distinguished guests, including Dr. Jochen Reiser, UTMB President and CEO; Dr. Susan Chubinskaya, Interim Provost; Dr. Melinda Sheffield-Moore, Interim Dean of SHP; Adriana B. Nunemaker, Executive Director of UT Center at Laredo; Texas State Dean Senator Judith Zaffirini; State Representative Richard Peña Raymond; UT Regent Dr. Nolan Perez; City of Laredo Mayor Dr. Victor D. Treviño; and Mr. Gerald Schwebel. Also in attendance were SHP Administrator Rachelle Mainard, along with occupational therapy leadership, faculty, and staff.
From a highly competitive pool of more than 165 applicants, 14 students were selected to form the inaugural cohort. The program’s innovative hybrid format allows students to complete portions of their coursework online while participating in on-site laboratory experiences at the UT Center at Laredo. The OTD curriculum is designed to prepare the next generation of occupational therapy leaders and practitioners while addressing critical health care disparities across South Texas and beyond.
“As an occupational therapist myself, I understand firsthand the critical need for more OTs in our community,” said Dr. Jodie M. Sandel, Site Coordinator and Assistant Professor of Instruction. “This program is not just about education—it’s about opportunity and building a brighter future for health care in Laredo.”
“The establishment of this first-ever in-person doctorate program at a UT System multi-institution teaching center, offered through a pioneering hybrid model, exemplifies UTMB’s mission to improve the quality of life in all the communities we serve,” said Dr. Reiser.
The School of Health Professions is honored to play a key role in this transformative effort and remains committed to advancing educational access and excellence in the health professions across the state of Texas.