St. Bonaventure University

Faculty


Richards, Stephanie

Stephanie Richards, Occupational Therapy

ACADEMIC DEPARTMENT
Occupational Therapy, Public Health, Health Science
ACADEMIC SCHOOL
DePerro School of Health Professions

TITLES/RESPONSIBILITIES
Clinical Assistant Professor, Occupational Therapy
Academic Advisor & Adjunct Faculty Member, Health Science
Academic Advisor, Public Health

CONTACT
Office phone: (716) 375-2537
Send an email
OFFICE
Francis Hall 208
COURSES TAUGHT
  • OT-530. Applied Kinesiology for Occupational Engagement
  • OT-550. Health Conditions
  • OT-560. Evidence Based Practice
  • OT-630. Applied Research Methods
  • OT-690. Occupational Therapy Process: Older Adults
  • HS 211. Pharmacology
  • HS 314. Exercise Physiology
  • HS 401 Seminar. Current Topics in Health Science
ACADEMIC DEGREES
  • Post-Professional Doctor of Physical Therapy, Utica College, 2021
  • Master of Science in Physical Therapy, Ithaca College, 2003
  • Bachelor of Science in Clinical Science, Ithaca College, 2002
OTHER EDUCATION
  • BLS Provider, American Heat Association
  • APTA certified clinical instructor, 2006
PROFESSIONAL BACKGROUND
Stephanie has practiced as a physical therapist in the Olean, New York, area since 2003. She is a dedicated physical therapist, with experience in a diverse range of clinical settings including acute care, outpatient therapy, home health care, and skilled nursing facilities.  Her passion is in working with geriatric populations with complex medical challenges. She spent thirteen years providing care to the frail community dwelling older adult population at Total Senior Care, a local PACE (Program of All-inclusive Care for the Elderly) program.  She has experience working with a wide range of health conditions as well as recommending assistive and adaptive equipment and devices. She continues to be a valuable member of Olean General Hospital’s rehabilitative services team while teaching full-time at St. Bonaventure University.
ACCOMPLISHMENTS
TEACHING PHILOSOPHY
My teaching philosophy centers on fostering an environment of active learning, critical thinking, and compassionate practice. I believe that education should empower students to become not only skilled practitioners but also lifelong learners who are adaptable to the ever-evolving landscape of health care.

I emphasize collaborative learning and encourage students to engage in evidence-based practice, integrating research into clinical decision making. By creating a supportive and inclusive classroom atmosphere, I aim to cultivate students’ confidence and clinical reasoning abilities.

In keeping with the Franciscan mission of St. Bonaventure University, my goal is to inspire future clinicians to approach their practice with empathy, integrity, and a commitment to improving patient outcomes, thereby enhancing the overall health and well-being of the communities they serve.
CURRENT RESEARCH INTERESTS/PROJECTS
  • Faculty advisor/professor for student research courses (OT 560, OT 630, HS 401)
  • Evidence based fall prevention programs for the geriatric population
  • Physical activity promotion in rural communities
  • Trends and advances in total joint replacements
PERSONAL INTERESTS/COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT
  • American Physical Therapy Association (APTA) member 2002-present
  • American Occupational Therapy Association (AOTA) member 2023-present
  • Alzheimer’s Association- Walk to End Alzheimer’s participant 2024
  • Community Partner/Supporter of Olean’s Parkinson’s Support Group 2024
  • SBU’s Student Occupational Therapy Association (SOTA) Club Faculty Co-Advisor 
    2023-present
  • Interfaith Caregivers, Inc., Executive Board Member and Treasurer 2023-present
  • Hinsdale Central School PTO, Treasurer 2017-present
LINKS