Phone: 865.338.5725
Email: colleen.bullen@LMUnet.edu
[In Progress] Doctor of Education, Lincoln Memorial University
Doctor of Occupational Therapy, University of Toledo
Bachelor of Science, University of Toledo
Certificate in Contemporary Gerontological Practice, University of Toledo
Interprofessional Education
Fieldwork Education
Pediatrics
Dr. Colleen Bullen joined Lincoln Memorial University in January 2021 as the Academic Fieldwork Coordinator and Assistant Professor. Dr. Bullen has been serving as the Program Director since November 2024. She is currently working on completing her Doctorate of Education with a focus on fieldwork educators' perceptions of student preparedness for Level II Fieldwork.
Prior to joining the LMU team, Dr. Bullen practiced mostly in the area of pediatrics. She also has experience in the areas of neurology, orthopedics, and acute care. She has taken several Level I and Level II fieldwork students over the past 13 years.
Dr. Bullen spends her free time with her husband and two children. She enjoys reading, hiking, and running.
Professional memberships include the National Board for Certification in Occupational Therapy, the American Occupational Therapy Association, and the Tennessee Occupational Therapy Association.
Hoover, M., Johnson, M., Bullen, C., Schmidt, E. K., & Miller, J. M. (2025). Factors Influencing Occupational Therapy Doctorate Program Offer Acceptance Across Student Demographics. Journal of Occupational Therapy Education, 9 (4). Retrieved from https://encompass.eku.edu/jote/vol9/iss4/2
Phone: 865.338.5782
Email: emma.sabransky@LMUnet.edu
Doctor of Occupational Therapy, Ohio State University
Bachelor of Science, Ohio State University
Metacognition
Neurorehabilitation
Knowledge translation
Teaching and learning in higher education
Dr. Emma Cummings joined Lincoln Memorial University in January 2022 as an Assistant Professor of Occupational Therapy. Dr. Cummings has 5 years of experience in academia, serving as a lecturer and adjunct faculty member for Ohio State University (Columbus, OH) and Xavier University (Cincinnati, OH) before coming to LMU. Dr. Cummings worked on campus for 2 years prior to transitioning to a remote position. She currently works from Cincinnati but frequently visits campus to collaborate with faculty, staff, and students.
Dr. Cummings completed the American Occupational Therapy Association’s Neurologic Fellowship at Ohio State University in 2019-2020, gaining both independent and mentored experience working with patients with neurologic diagnoses, including stroke, spinal cord injury, traumatic brain injury, and neurodegenerative conditions. She has clinical experience in acute care, inpatient rehabilitation, and outpatient rehabilitation. In 2023, Dr. Cummings earned her Board Certification in Physical Rehabilitation from the American Occupational Therapy Association. Professional memberships include the National Board for Certification in Occupational Therapy (NBCOT) and American Occupational Therapy Association (AOTA).
Outside of work, Dr. Cummings enjoys exploring Cincinnati with her husband, eating good food, and spoiling her fur babies – one dog and one cat.
Robinson, M.L., Kroll, C., & Sabransky, E. (2022). Use of metacognitive techniques in occupational therapy education: A scoping review. Journal of Occupational Therapy Education, 6(3), 1-20.
Phone: 865.338.5679
Email: alicia.belt@LMUnet.edu
Bachelor of Science in Psychology, Towson University.
Ms. Alicia Belt joined the Occupational Therapy Doctorate (OTD) Program team in January 2021. Before stepping into higher education, she gained valuable experience working in a multidisciplinary therapy clinic alongside Physical Therapists, Occupational Therapists, and Licensed Massage Therapists. She also brings a background in mental health, which enhances her support of students.
Alicia is passionate about helping students make the most of both their Fieldwork and Doctoral Capstone experiences and is thrilled to be part of their journey into the OT profession.
Outside of work, Alicia proudly holds the title of “craft queen,” loves exploring the outdoors through hiking, and cherishes time with her wonderfully chaotic crew-her partner, five amazing kids, and two lovable and quirky dogs.
Medical Transcription/Transcriptionist Certification, Ohio State University
Business Administration and Management Certification, Port Huron School of Business
Ms. Kathy Chumley joined the Occupational Therapy Program team in April 2022. Previously, she worked with a CPA firm specializing in corporate accounting and taxes. She also has experience in the field of Medical Transcription. She is happy to be a part of the OTD program and looks forward to providing support to our cohorts.
Ms. Chumley is originally from Harrogate, Tennessee and enjoys visiting her family in Harrogate and Cumberland Gap. In her free time, she enjoys family genealogy, crocheting and spending time with her family.
Phone: 865.338.5803
Email: donna.howell@LMUnet.edu
Bachelor of Arts in Sociology, Minor in Human Services and Psychology
Carson-Newman University
Ms. Donna Howell joined the Occupational Therapy Program team in May 2025. Previously she worked for the State of Tennessee Human Services/Mental Health field. She also has experience as Director of Career Services and Director of Recruitment at ITT Tech. She is excited to join the team and to be working in the OTD program and looks forward to supporting our alumni and students.
Ms. Howell enjoys remodeling, gardening, anything outdoors, and spending time relaxing in her pool.
Doctor of Education, East Tennessee State University
Master of Occupational Therapy, Milligan University
Bachelor of Science, Public Health Administration, East Tennessee State University
Associate of Applied Science, Respiratory Therapy, East Tennessee State University
Emotional intelligence
Metacognition
Leadership
Therapeutic gardening
Yoga and Anxiety
Neurodegenerative disease
Dr. Rachel Ellis joined Lincoln Memorial University in August 2023 as an Assistant Professor of Occupational Therapy. Dr. Ellis has 11 years of experience in higher education in both administrative and teaching roles.
Dr. Ellis has experience in long-term acute care, acute care, skilled nursing care, home health, private practice, administration, and entrepreneurial endeavors. Professional areas of interest and practice include complementary and integrative medicine, emerging practice in environmental modifications, end-of-life care, and treatment of neurodegenerative conditions with a focus on Parkinson’s and Dementia.
Professional memberships include the National Board for Certification in Occupational Therapy, the American Occupational Therapy Association, and Yoga Alliance, and the National End-of-Life Doula Alliance.
Phone: 865.338.5712
Email: acacia.gambrel@LMUnet.edu
Doctor of Occupational Therapy, Huntington University
Bachelor of Science in Psychology, Lincoln Memorial University
Critical Illness Recovery
High Intensity Training in Geriatrics
Integrative Health/ Lifestyle Medicine
Occupational Therapy Advocacy
Women’s Health/ Pelvic Health
Dr. Acacia Gambrel joined Lincoln Memorial University in January 2024 as an Adjunct Faculty member for the OTD program and transitioned to the role of Assistant Professor of Occupational Therapy in May 2024.
Dr. Gambrel is an Appalachian native who graduated with her Bachelor of Science in Psychology from Lincoln Memorial University in Harrogate, Tennessee and obtained her Doctorate of Occupational Therapy from Huntington University in Fort Wayne, Indiana.
Dr. Gambrel has worked primarily in acute care and critical illness recovery hospitals helping medically complex patients return to function. She has additional clinical experience in skilled nursing/long term care, home health care, inpatient rehabilitation, and outpatient therapy.
Dr. Gambrel spends her free time with her husband and daughter, family, and friends. She enjoys being outdoors, hiking, spending time on the lake, exercising, reading, completing DIY home projects with her husband, and going on vacations.
Professional memberships include the National Board for Certification in Occupational Therapy, American Occupational Therapy Association, and Tennessee Occupational Therapy Association.
Henton, P., Targonski, C., Gambrel, A., Rink, C., & Wirtz, S. (2021). Perceptions of stress, mindfulness, and occupational engagement among graduate-level occupational therapy students. Journal of Occupational Therapy Education, 5 (3). https://doi.org/10.26681/jote.2021.050309
Phone: 865.338.5741
Email: brittany.nash@LMUnet.edu
University of Saint Augustine, Saint Augustine, Fl, Doctorate of Physical Therapy, August 2009
University of Saint Augustine, Saint Augustine, Fl, Master of Occupational Therapy, April 2008
The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, Bachelor of Arts, Sociology, March 2005
Student Self-Efficacy and Confidence
Student Engagement
Simulation Education
Interprofessional Education
Dr. Brittany Nash joined Lincoln Memorial University in August of 2024 as an Associate Professor. Dr. Nash has been an Occupational Therapy educator for eight years. Dr. Nash has experience in orthopedics, long-term acute care, skilled nursing care, home health and pediatrics.
Dr. Nash spends her free time with her three children and husband. She enjoys reading, being outdoors, running and traveling the United States with her family.
Professional memberships include the National Board for Certification in Occupational Therapy and American Occupational Therapy Association.
Nash, B., Etheridge, J. Sosa, S., Macias, V., Bradley, A., Osowski, K., Cornwell, N. (2025). The impact of a multi-method approach for ethics education on occupational therapy students’ self-efficacy and confidence. Journal of Occupational Therapy Education, 9 (1). https://encompass.eku.edu/jote/vol9/iss1/8.
Crowther, V., Weaver,J., Green-Weir, R., Moton, B., Simmons, M., Alexander,A., Weatherspoon, M., Nash, B., Jones, J., Robinson, C. (2024). Factors associated with food insecurity among a community-based sample of older adults in a north Florida county. Gerontology and Geriatric Medicine, 10. https://doi.org/10.1177/23337214231221328.
Etheridge, J., Nash, B., Oliveira, D. (2023). Recruitment efforts for black occupational therapy students: A narrative review. Journal of the National Society of Allied Health, 20(1). 68-82.
Nash, B., Mitchell, A. W., Jones, J., & Etheridge, J. (2022). Student self-efficacy levels for performing clinical skills learned virtually during a pandemic. Journal of Occupational Therapy Education, 6 (3). https://encompass.eku.edu/jote/vol6/iss3/9
Nash, B., Etheridge, J., Oliveira, D., Gray, K. (2022). Perceptions of barriers to return to work of people with spinal cord injuries. Journal of the National Society of Allied Health, 19(1). 45-53.
Nash, B., Mitchell, A. (2017). Longitudinal study of changes in occupational therapy students' perspectives on frames of reference. American Journal of Occupational Therapy, 71(5). https://doi.org/10.5014/ajot.2017.024455
Zachry, A. H., Nash, B., Nolen, A. (2017). Traditional lectures and team-based learning in an occupational therapy program: A survey of student perceptions. Open Journal of Occupational Therapy, 5(2). Art. 6. http://dx.doi.org/10.15453/2168-6408.1313
Phone: 865.338.5779
Email: jillian.pindar@LMUnet.edu
Doctor of Occupational Therapy, Creighton University
Bachelor of Science in Therapeutic Recreation, Central Michigan University
Bachelor of Science in Child Development, Central Michigan University
Maternal Health
Parkinson’s Disease
Neurodegenerative Diseases
Evidence-based OT Education
Dr. Jillian Pindar joined Lincoln Memorial University in January 2022 as an Assistant Professor and stepped into the role of Doctoral Capstone Coordinator in July 2022. Prior to LMU, she held adjunct faculty and lab instructor positions at East Tennessee State University and the University of St. Augustine for Health Sciences, while also practicing clinically in Florida and East Tennessee.
Her clinical experience spans a variety of settings, including intensive care, inpatient rehabilitation with individuals recovering from traumatic brain injury and stroke, and skilled nursing facilities.
Dr. Pindar earned her occupational therapy doctorate from Creighton University. She holds two bachelor of science degrees in Therapeutic Recreation and Child Development from Central Michigan University.
Outside of work, Dr. Pindar loves spending time with her husband, two sons, and their two dogs, ideally on an outdoor adventure. She’s a runner and mountain biker, enjoys cooking, and is happiest exploring the outdoors with her family.
Professional memberships include the National Board for Certification in Occupational Therapy and the American Occupational Therapy Association
Pindar, J. K., Belton, P., Griffin, M., Hancock, A., Limones, L., Self, K., & Schmidt, E. K. (2025). Assessing the Impact of High-Fidelity Simulation Experiences on Student Confidence in a Controlled Academic Environment. Journal of Occupational Therapy Education, 9 (4). Retrieved from https://encompass.eku.edu/jote/vol9/iss4/12
DEBORAH RUEDIGER, OTD, OTR/L, CHSE, CAPSPhone: 865.338.5683
Email: deborah.ruediger@LMUnet.edu
[In Progress] Doctor of Philosophy in Educational Technology and Design, Walden University
Post-Professional Doctorate Summa cum Laude in Occupational Therapy, Rocky Mountain University of Health Professions
Bachelor of Science cum Laude in Occupational Therapy, Saginaw Valley State University
Associate of Liberal Arts and Sciences, Joliet Junior College
Simulation Education
Virtual Reality
Assistive Technology
Modalities and Orthotics
Interprofessional Education
3D Printing
Dr. Deborah Ruediger graduated with her undergraduate degree from Saginaw Valley State University and her Post-Professional Doctorate in Occupational Therapy with a specialty in Administration and Practice Management from the Rocky Mountain University of Health Professions.
Dr. Ruediger has 20+ years of clinical expertise in the areas of hand therapy, geriatrics, orthopedics, neurorehabilitation, bariatric care, and adult rehabilitation. She completed her United Kingdom Hand Therapy Certification which provided knowledge regarding modalities, orthotics, and prosthetics. Her capstone focus was centered on making occupational therapy a standard of care after bariatric surgery.
Dr. Ruediger is currently enrolled in a Ph.D. in Education program at Walden University focusing on Education Technology and Design. Dr. Ruediger recently completed her certification as a Certified Simulation Healthcare Educator (CHSE), as well as her certification as a Certified Aging-In-Place Specialist (CAPS). She is currently pursuing a certification in Assistive Technology (ATP). She was recently awarded by the USAHS Board of Directors the Excellence in Innovation 2020 Award for Faculty.
Puzziferro, M., McGee, E., Baldwin, T., Belleza, N., DeLuca, E., Evener, J., Layne, K., Matthews, J., Reed, R., Ruediger, D., and Somarriba, G. (2021). Delivering virtual labs in rehabilitative sciences during covid-19: Strategies and instructional cases. Online Journal of Distance Learning Administration, 24(1).
Ruediger, D. (2020). Bariatric factors and management. In A. Mahle & A. Ward (Eds.), Adult physical conditions: Intervention strategies for occupational therapy assistants (2nd ed., Chapter 29). FA Davis.
Phone: 865.338.5687
Email: elizabeth.schmidt@LMUnet.edu
PhD Health and Rehabilitation Sciences, Ohio State University
Master of Occupational Therapy, Ohio State University
Bachelor of Science in Psychology, Lindenwood University
Sexual and reproductive health education
Organizational consultation to improve sensory accessibility and inclusion
Community and social participation
Neurodevelopmental disabilities and autism
Participatory and community-engaged research methods
Dr. Elizabeth K. Schmidt is an occupational therapist, health educator, and researcher whose work focuses on health equity and inclusive education for individuals with neurodevelopmental disabilities. Her research integrates occupational therapy, public health, and disability studies to develop and evaluate accessible, developmentally appropriate interventions, particularly in the areas of sexual and reproductive health, relationship education, and community participation.
Her current work, funded by the National Institute on Disability, Independent Living, and Rehabilitation Research (NIDILRR), examines how occupational therapy practitioners can collaborate with arts and recreation organizations to improve sensory accessibility and inclusion for neurodivergent individuals. This project seeks to develop sustainable consultation strategies that support both organizational change and community engagement.
Dr. Schmidt’s previous work includes participatory research with LGBTQIA+ autistic adults, development and testing of game-based social communication interventions, and the design of accessible sexual health education programs for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. She has published widely in peer-reviewed journals and presented nationally and internationally on topics related to disability, inclusion, and health equity.
Before joining LMU in 2021, Dr. Schmidt completed a postdoctoral fellowship at Boston University in the Families and Autism Research Lab and earned her PhD in Health and Rehabilitation Sciences from The Ohio State University. She is certified in the Prechtl General Movements Assessment and has practiced as a pediatric occupational therapist in outpatient, school, and specialty clinics, including NICU follow-up, cerebral palsy, and international adoption.
Dr. Schmidt currently serves in several leadership roles, including with the American Association of Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities National Goals on Health Equity, the Tennessee Occupational Therapy Association's Diversity, Equity and Inclusion committee, and LMU COTAD Chapter's faculty advisor. She also facilitates a neurodivergent support group every other week at Knox Pride center.
She lives in Knoxville, Tennessee with her husband, son, daughter, and Cairn Terrier.
Schmidt, E. K., Hand, B. N., Havercamp, S., Sommerich, C., Weaver, L., & Darragh, A. (2021). Sex education practices for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities: A qualitative study. American Journal of Occupational Therapy, 75, 7503180060. https://doi.org/10.5014/ ajot.2021.044859
Krempley, T. & Schmidt, E.K. (2021). Assessing Activity of Daily Living Task Performance Among Autistic Adults. Autism and Adulthood, 3(1). DOI: 10.1089/aut.2020.0042
Tanner, K. J., Schmidt, E. K., Martin, K., & Bassi, M., (2020). Systematic Review on Occupational Therapy for Children and Youth (Ages 0-5 Years). American Journal of Occupational Therapy, 74(2), 1-40. https://doi.org/10.5014/ajot.2020.039644.
Phone: 865.338.5824
Email: shelby.smith03@LMUnet.edu
Phone: 865.338.5741
Email: b
Post-Professional Doctor of Occupational Therapy, Boston University
Masters of Occupational Therapy, Augusta University
Bachelors of Science in Exercise Physiology, Valdosta State University
Acute Care
Lymphedema
ICU Early Mobility
Dr. Shelby Smith joined Lincoln Memorial University in August 2025 as an Assistant Professor of Occupational Therapy. Prior to coming to LMU, Dr. Smith practiced full-time in both the acute care and outpatient settings treating patients of a wide range of diagnoses including orthopedics, neurological, general medical, Cardiovascular, and ICU. Dr. Smith completed her certification in Lymphedema in 2023 where she gained experience working with patients with Lymphedema, Lipedema, and Cancer. Dr. Smith presented at the American Occupational Therapy Association Inspire 2025 conference where she spoke on “Occupational Therapist’s Holistic Approach to Lymphedema Treatment”.
Dr. Smith is new to the realm of Academia and looks forward to educating students on how to be successful occupational therapists. She is excited about joining the faculty and staff at LMU and is looking forward to growing and expanding her knowledge as an educator. Dr. Smith enjoys spending her free time with her husband, dog, and family. Professional memberships include National Board for Certification in Occupational Therapy and American Occupational Therapy Association.
Phone: 865.338.5781
Email: deborah.zeitlin@LMUnet.edu
Post Professional Doctor of Occupational Therapy, Spalding University
MS Occupational Therapy, Rush University
MA Psychology, Southern Illinois University Edwardsville
BA Psychology, North Central College
School-based practice
Community health and wellness
Resiliency and mental health
Dr. Deborah Zeitlin joined Lincoln Memorial University in January 2022 as an Assistant Professor of Occupational Therapy. Prior to LMU, she served as an adjunct faculty member in the Psychology and Neuroscience Department at North Central College.
Her clinical background includes practice in school-based, early intervention, and outpatient pediatric settings, with additional experience in rehabilitation. Alongside her clinical work, Dr. Zeitlin has also contributed to the field as a research psychologist.
Outside of her professional role, Dr. Zeitlin enjoys spending time with her family and pursuing personal interests such as dancing, exercising, gardening, and reading.
She maintains active professional memberships with the National Board for Certification in Occupational Therapy, the American Occupational Therapy Association, and the Tennessee Occupational Therapy Association.
Zeitlin, D., Case, A., Clement, C., Cook, R., Tackett, H., Thomas, R., & Schmidt, E. K. (2025). Occupational therapy’s role in schools: A survey of occupational therapy practitioners. American Journal of Occupational Therapy, 79(5), 7905205170. https://doi.org/10.5014/ajot.2025.051041
Clopper, M., Daniels, M., Long, C., Ipock, S., Vaughn, L. K., Pope, B., & Zeitlin, D. (2024). Occupational therapy’s role within the middle and high school settings in the United States. Journal of Occupational Therapy, Schools, & Early Intervention. https://doi.org/10.1080/19411243.2023.2301113
Zeitlin, D. K., & Skuller, J. (2022). Using universal strategies to support self-regulation in a virtual school setting. SIS Quarterly Connections, 7(1), 5–7.
