​​ OT Professor’s Article Published in Scholarly Journal

By Hazel Scott/ASU

 Dr. Angela T. Davis, professor of Occupational Therapy at Alabama State University, had her article, “The Effects of Stress on First-Year Graduate Students in Health Professions,” published in the scholarly Journal of the National Society of Allied Health. 

Davis pointed out that the article was based on the results of a research study conducted at ASU. The aim of the study, she said, was to evaluate the effects of stress on academic performance, physical health, relationships and mental wellness. Davis served as the principal investigator for the study along with a group of ASU occupational therapy graduates -- Anne Preston, MS, OTR/L; Heather Hooper, MS, OTR/L; and Mary Kate McCluney, MS, OTR/L. 

“One of my greatest aspirations is for our students to engage in scholarly activities that contribute to the body of knowledge in health care. This article is a collaborative endeavor between faculty and occupational therapy students and that makes me proud. Having our article accepted for publication…is exciting and rewarding,” Davis said. 

Stress among college students, Davis noted, continues to rise, and it is paramount that students and faculty are educated on recognizing the signs and symptoms of stress.  

“It is also critical for students to be knowledgeable of campus resources available to support them through stressful situations, especially when it affects their quality of life. Coping with stress in healthy, adaptive ways is essential for optimal health and well-being,” Davis added.

Davis’ next research article focuses on the role and benefits of interprofessional education in the health sciences.  

“Interprofessional education has shown to foster effective communication and collaboration among students in health professions programs, better prepare students for interprofessional delivery of health care services and improve patient outcomes,” she said.  

Davis, an ASU alumna (2006), has entered her 22nd year teaching in the occupational therapy program at ASU. She was a graduate of the inaugural class of ASU’s Ed.D. program in Educational Leadership, Policy and Law.