TCU
Michael Justiss
TCU sent out news recently that Michael D. Justiss had been hired as founding director for TCU’s Doctor of Occupational Therapy program, a new undertaking of the Harris College of Nursing & Health Sciences.
Justiss has more than 23 years of health professions experience with the last 18 years in academia. He is recognized nationally and internationally for his cognitive aging, human factors and gerontechnology research with over 35 peer-reviewed publications and numerous conference presentations and workshops.
He will begin his duties in July. The college said its goal is to welcome the inaugural cohort in fall 2025.
“My motivation as an occupational therapist and academic leader stems from the desire to help others, promote holistic health, advance knowledge and research, inspire and mentor future professionals, and advocate for social change,” said Justiss in a statement.
Justiss received his doctorate in rehabilitation sciences from the College of Public Health and Health Professions at the University of Florida with a graduate certificate and minor in gerontology from the Center for Gerontological Studies.
He received his primary clinical training in Pittsburgh with a Master of Occupational Therapy from Duquesne University. He also has bachelor’s degrees in neuroscience and medical technology from the University of Pittsburgh.
Occupational therapists treat the physical, mental, developmental, and emotional ailments that impact an individual’s ability to perform daily tasks.
The college said the new OTD program will meet a critical need for rehabilitation professionals in the Dallas-Fort Worth region, the state, and the nation. The Bureau of Labor Statistics has reported expected job growth of 17% over the next decade.
“A substantial number of Harris College graduates go on to study occupational therapy, physical therapy, physician assistant studies and other graduate professional disciplines at universities other than TCU,” said Christopher Watts, the Marilyn & Morgan Davies dean of Harris College. “This program will allow them to continue their development at our Fort Worth campus.”