Description:

Presented by Celia Pechak, PT, PhD, MPH

Abstract: Dr. Celia Pechak’s presentation will address various topics germane to students and faculty with interests in developing effective global health education, and promoting ethical practice with vulnerable populations and in underserved communities - locally &/or internationally. She will present an overview of her current research related to delineating global health competencies in physical therapist education. Additionally, Dr. Pechak will share lessons learned from integrating Spanish language training across a curriculum, and developing an interprofessional education model focused on health disparities. This presentation aims to promote interprofessional dialogue about how to effectively prepare our graduates for ethical global health practice, no matter where they work or serve.

BIO: Celia Pechak, PT, PhD, MPH is an Associate Professor in the Doctor of Physical Therapy Program at The University of Texas at El Paso, located on the US-Mexico border. She earned a BS in Physical Therapy from Marquette University, a Master of Public Health (with an international health focus) from the University of Hawaii, and a PhD in Physical Therapy from Texas Woman’s University. She entered academia 9 years ago after 24 years in various clinical settings, and with a range of experience in international service. She has presented and published her research related to global health and physical therapist education, including international service-learning and international clinical education. Dr. Pechak’s current research streams are focused on delineating global health competencies in physical therapist education, and evaluating physical therapist students’ Spanish language proficiency in clinical contexts. She is the recent past Chair of the Global Health Special Interest Group in the American Physical Therapy Association. Dr. Pechak’s research, teaching, and service are underpinned by her desire to promote social responsibility and influence ethical practice with underserved communities locally and abroad.