University of Pittsburgh Seal and Department of Rehabilitation Science and Technology (RST) logo

RST Updates

All future Updates will be posted on the RST SharePoint Drive at:

https://pitt.sharepoint.com/sites/RST/

05-12-2020

I hope everyone enjoyed the weekend and had a happy Mother’s day.   In addition to the Covid-related links below I wanted to share that there is an extensive planning effort going on to prepare for in-person activities at Pitt (link).  These include building up an inventory of PPE and establishing policies/procedures that will minimize risk of infection.  These actions are in concert with reduced restrictions in the Pittsburgh area announced by Governor Wolf (link), which will start to take effect on May 15th .  We are therefore hopeful that we will begin some in-person activities this Summer; we will share additional details as they become available.

COVID-19 Response

COVID-19 response info:  Sharing key links here which are a gateway to additional information:

Recent Events, Publications, Grants, and Other Accolades:

  • A recording of our town-hall on April 29th can be found here link password: 4e^1v&@C 
  • Congratulations!  Dr. Goeran Fiedler’s DOD Grant titled Improving Physical Function and Patient-Reported Outcomes Through a Quantitatively Informed Socket Design Process was recommended for funding.  This grant is a collaboration between Dr. Fiedler in RST, and Dr. Bill Anderst in Pitt’s Dept. of Orthopeadic Surgery.   
  • Congratulations to pathVu (www.pathvu.com) for being highlighted in an article in Forbes.com (link).  pathVu is a start-up company in Pittsburgh run by RST alum who licensed technology developed at HERL and RST.

Upcoming events:  (send info on accepted publications, abstracts, grants, etc.).

  • The 37th ISS will be in Pittsburgh in early 2021.  The call for papers is now open.  Call for papers will close July 12th.

Funding Announcements: 

RST grant submission form: link

  • Sheth Foundation Awards, May 16th
  • COPL grants for up to 30k due May 21st link
  • The DOD announced several grant opportunities, including related to P&O: link
  • NIDILRR grant info can be found here link

Job Announcements:

Other Announcements: 

RST is on social media and is actively increasing outreach:

Please like/follow us:

 

     

Back to the Home Page

04-27-2020

I hope everyone enjoyed the weekend.  Congratulations to all of the students who graduated, and special thanks to Dan and the rest of the team who helped coordinate the RST reception.  It was wonderful to see all of the graduating students online and celebrate your special day.  We look forward to doing it again in November in person!

Town-Hall Meeting

Note that we are hosting a ‘town-hall meeting’ for students this Wednesday from 6-7pm to answer questions regarding the curriculum, online teaching plans, and other related topics.  Please email your questions ahead of time to Meghan (meghan.wander@pitt.edu) for O&P, and Bethany (bls200@pitt.edu) for RT by Wednesday Morning.   

COVID-19 Response

You have all many email updates, so just sharing key links here which are a gateway to additional information:

Recent Events, Publications, Grants, and Other Accolades:

  • RST design students presented their final projects last Thursday.  Links to more info are here: (1) adaptive gardening, (2) poppingcans, (3) customiza-board  
  • O&P students completed their Capstone Presentations last Friday.  Excellent presentations from all students!
  • The Pitt Chancellor approved RST’s new MRT program last Friday; Our first cohort of MRT students will start in Fall 2020. 

Upcoming events:  (send info on accepted publications, abstracts, grants, etc.).

  • April 29th 6-7pm: RST town-hall to field questions about upcoming semesters and related topics. 
  • April 28th 10-12pm: The SHRS Innovation Challenge final pitches. If you’d like to watch, email Dr. Brienza (dbrienza@pitt.edu) for the invite. 
  • May 4th, 1pm: Joe Ott will defend his dissertation via zoom (https://pitt.zoom.us/j/487773727). Flyer attached
  • Spring Grades are due May 4th.

Funding Announcements: 

RST grant submission form: link

  • PINCH Competition applications due April 29th link (now offering a bonus award of 25k for ideas addressing epidemic/pandemics)
  • RI Pilot Funding LOI May 11th (attached)
  • Neilsen Foundation announced its SCI Research on the Translational Spectrum (SCIRTS) funding opportunity, LOI due May 11th.
  • Sheth Foundation Awards, May 16th
  • COPL grants for up to 30k due May 21st link
  • The DOD just announced several grant opportunities, including related to P&O: link
  • NIDILRR grant info can be found here link

Job Announcements:

Other Announcements: 

     

04-13-2020

I hope everyone enjoyed the holiday weekend.  I want to sincerely thank all of the students, staff, and faculty in RST for their flexibility and perseverance in adapting to remote working and learning, and for the staff at the CAT who remain in-person to support their clients receiving services.  I know we are all happy to see the curve ‘flattening’ in the US and around the world which is the result of our collective efforts to stay home.  Below are the updates for RST from the last two weeks:  

COVID-19 Response

You have all many email updates, so just sharing key links here which are a gateway to additional information:

Publications, Accolades and Upcoming Events:

(send info on accepted publications, abstracts, grants, etc.).

  • Six Pitt Katz MBA students, supported by the Kenneth Woodcock Fellowship, worked with RST staff on projects which culminated in presentations to Ken Woodcock, distinguished Pitt MBA alum, on April 3.  Students:  Created a business development and marketing plan for the Adaptive Driving Program; researched revenue opportunities for ISWP to consider when it becomes a separate entity; and completed a competitive analysis, market assessment and proposed revenue model for the WheelTrak maintenance app currently in development. 
  • Joe Ott will defend his dissertation on May 4th, at 1 pm via zoom (https://pitt.zoom.us/j/487773727). Flyer attached

Funding Announcements: 

RST grant submission form: link

  • PINCH Competition applications due April 29th link (now offering a bonus award of 25k for ideas addressing epidemic/pandemics)
  • RI Pilot Funding LOI May 11th (attached)
  • Neilsen Foundation announced its SCI Research on the Translational Spectrum (SCIRTS) funding opportunity, LOI due May 11th.
  • Sheth Foundation Awards, May 16th (attached)
  • COPL grants for up to 30k due May 21st link
  • The DOD just announced several grant opportunities, including related to P&O: link
  • NIDILRR grant info can be found here link

Job Announcements:

Other Announcements: 

     

03-30-2020

The last few weeks have been challenging for everyone in RST, and I want to thank everyone for their patience, flexibility and hard work.  RST is now operating completely remotely which required an enormous team effort to accomplish; we continue to make progress on all fronts while still having time for a break (see happy hour screen shot).  Thanks especially to RST students who are quickly adapting to the online learning environment.   

I also want to give a warm welcome to Helen Cochrane, CPO who is officially starting as the new O&P Program Director April 1st.  I also want to thank Dr. Sara Peterson for serving as the O&P director and her continuous support of the program for over 10 years.  Dr. Peterson remains on the RST faculty teaching in the program. Thanks to both of you!  

COVID-19 Response

You have all many email updates, so just sharing key links here which are a gateway to additional information:

Publications & other accolades:

(send info on accepted publications, abstracts, grants, etc.).

  • Press coverage in the O&P Almanac for a former MSPO student, Ashley Kubinski (Muller) (pg 29) as well as Dr. Fiedler (pp 26) related to COVID: link
  • OandP Edge story on student organizations, featuring current MSPO student Cecelia Hauser (pages 40-48): link 
  • Dr. Goeran Fiedler’s Editor’s comments in the Journal of AAOP: link

Funding Announcements: 

RST grant submission form: link

  • CTSI Covid Challenge LOI Due April 3rd link
  • PINCH Competition applications due April 29th link
  • RI Pilot Funding May 11th (attached)
  • Neilsen Foundation announced its SCI Research on the Translational Spectrum (SCIRTS) funding opportunity, LOI due May 11th.
  • COPL grants for up to 30k due May 21st link
  • The DOD just announced several grant opportunities, including related to P&O: link
  • NIDILRR grant info can be found here link

Job Announcements:

  • The CAT is hiring—please forward through your network and to eligible colleagues link
  • RST announced a tenure stream faculty position: link  please spread the word to eligible candidates.
  • Executive Director at the US Access Board: link

Other announcements:

RST is on social media and is actively increasing outreach:

Please like/follow us:

03-03-2020

Events

Upcoming Events:

  • March 7th, Adaptive Air Rifle Clinic & Competition (see attached info)
  • March 13th, 12:00pm HERL Conference Room– Dissertation Defense of Mark Greenhalgh.
    Title: Ergonomic Assessment of a Robotic-Assisted Transfer Device for Caregiver Assisted Wheelchair Transfers
  • SHRS Grad students are invited to meet with Dean Delitto, March 18th from 5:30-7:30.  RSVP here link 
  • FARS are due March 20th for Faculty through fars.pitt.edu

Funding Announcements: 

RST grant submission form: link

  • Neilsen Foundation announced its SCI Research on the Translational Spectrum (SCIRTS) funding opportunity, opening March 31, 2020
  • AOPA pilot fund grants are due April 30th: link
  • The DOD just announced several grant opportunities, including related to P&O: link
  • NIDILRR grant info can be found here link

Job Announcements:

  • The CAT is hiring—please forward through your network and to eligible colleagues link
  • RST Just announced a tenure-stream faculty position: link please spread the word to eligible candidates.

Other announcements:

  • Pitt will continue to update this website regarding the response to COVID-19, and RST will act according to recommendations from SHRS and Pitt.  Meanwhile, please take the recommended precautions:

    • frequent handwashing. 
    • Covering your nose and mouth when coughing or sneezing.
    • Avoiding sharing cups, utensils, water bottles, and other personal items.
    • Staying home when sick and avoiding others who are sick.

  • See the attached document for opportunities within the Pitt Honors College
  • The 2019/2020 academic calendar can be found here: link
  • NIH is hosting a workshop on Physical Activity and Health of Wheelchair User March 30/31st.  Register here: link
  • Faculty & Staff can access the new school logos here: Faculty and Staff Resources site ​​​​​​​

RST is on social media and is actively increasing outreach:

Please like/follow us:

02-17-2020

Events

Upcoming Events:

  • Wednesday, Feb 19th from 3-5pm, Emily Mente from the Dean’s office will be in RST to talk about the Day of Giving Campaign.
  • FARS are due March 20th for Faculty through fars.pitt.edu
  • SHRS Grad students are invited to meet with Dean Delitto, March 18th from 5:30-7:30.  RSVP here link 

Publications & other accolades

(send info on accepted publications, abstracts, grants, etc.).

  • Congratulations to staff who just received awards for years of service:  Joe Ruffing (20 years), Kim Robinson (5 years) and Meghan Wander (5 years).  Thank you for your dedication and commitment to RST!
  • Congrats to RST co-authors for having the following paper accepted for publication:
    • Paulisso, D.C., Cruz, D.M.C., Allegretti, A.L.C., Schein, R.M., Costa, J.D., Campos, L.C.B., & Schmeler, M.R. (2020). Cross-cultural adaption and face validity of the Functional Mobility Assessment into Brazilian Portuguese. Occupational Therapy International,2020.  DOI: https://doi.org/10.1155/2020/8150718.
    • Development of a Toolkit for Educators of the Wheelchair Service Provision Process: The Seating and Mobility Academic Resource Toolkit (SMART) Research, Paula W. Rushton, OT PhD; Karen Fung, MSc; Mélina Gauthier, MSc; Mary Goldberg, PhD; Maria L. Toro, PhD; Nicky Seymour, MPhil; Jon Pearlman, PhD, Human Resources for Health

Funding Announcements: 

RST grant submission form: link

  • The VA has a grant opportunity for AT for adaptive housing.  Due March 6th, 200k budget Info here: link
  • Rehab Institute Pilot funding is available (info attached). First due-date is April 10th.
  • AOPA pilot fund grants are due April 30th: link
  • The DOD just announced several grant opportunities, including related to P&O: link
  • NIDILRR grant info can be found here link
  • Pitt’s Seed awards for up to $50,000 are available.  LOI’s are due Feb 7th.  More info here

Job Announcements:

  • RST Just announced a tenure stream faculty position: link  please spread the word to eligible candidates.

Other announcements:

  • Save the date for the March 2nd Grad Studies Retreat (link)
  • The first exchange with the Dean is scheduled for Tuesday, March 18th in the Dept.  of OT in Bridgeside Point.  We strongly encourage all graduate students to attend.  
  • Save the date for the Feb 21st for the SHRS Collaborative Care Conference in Forbes Tower.
  • The Pitt Pre-Health Summit will be at the William Pitt Union on Sunday March 1st.  link
  • The 2019/2020 academic calendar can be found here: link
  • NIH is hosting a workshop on Physical Activity and Health of Wheelchair User March 30/31st.  Register here: link
  • Faculty & Staff can access the new school logos here: Faculty and Staff Resources site

RST is on social media and is actively increasing outreach:

Please like/follow us:

02-05-2020

Events

Upcoming Events:

  • Wednesday, Feb 19th from 3-5pm, Emily Mente from the Dean’s office will be in RST to talk about the Day of Giving Campaign.

Publications & other accolades

(send info on accepted publications, abstracts, grants, etc.).

  • Congratulations to Dr. Fiedler for being appointed to a 2-year term as an Associate Editor for Prosthetics and Orthotics International.

Funding Announcements: 

RST grant submission form: link

  • Venture Wells E-Teams grants are due Feb 5th—RST student teams have been successful with this competition to support technology development.  link
  • Pitt’s Pain Research Challenge grants through CTSI are due Feb 17th, 2020 link
  • The DOD just announced several grant opportunities, including related to P&O: link
  • NIDILRR grant info can be found here link
  • Pitt’s Seed awards for up to $50,000 are available.  LOI’s are due Feb 7th.  More infohere

Job Announcements:

  • RST Just announced a tenure stream faculty position: link  please spread the word to eligible candidates.

Other announcements:

  • The first exchange with the Dean is scheduled for Tuesday, February 18th in the Dept.  of OT in Bridgeside Point.  We strongly encourage all graduate students to attend.
  • Welcome RST’s new and incoming Faculty:  Recruitment for two new faculty in RST was successful and Rachel Hibbs, DPT will start on Feb 1st as the new Director of Continuing Education (CE) Program, and Helen Cochrane, MSc, CPO will start around April 1st as the new Director of the Prosthetics and Orthotics Program. 
  • Save the date for the Feb 21st for the SHRS Collaborative Care Conference in Forbes Tower.
  • The Pitt Pre-Health Summit will be at the William Pitt Union on Sunday March 1st.  link
  • The 2019/2020 academic calendar can be found here: link
  • NIH is hosting a workshop on Physical Activity and Health of Wheelchair User March 30/31st.  Register here: link
  • Faculty & Staff can access the new school logos here: Faculty and Staff Resources site

RST is on social media and is actively increasing outreach:

Please like/follow us:

01-22-2020

Events

Upcoming Events:

  • Wednesday, Feb 19th from 3-5pm, Emily Mente from the Dean’s office will be in RST to talk about the Day of Giving Campaign.

Publications & other accolades

(send info on accepted publications, abstracts, grants, etc.).

  • Congratulations to Dr. Fiedler and co-authors for their recent publication. Citation below:
    • Fiedler, G., Singh, A. & Zhang, X. Effect of temperature-control liner materials on long-term outcomes of lower limb prosthesis use: a randomized controlled trial protocol. Trials 21, 61 (2020) doi:10.1186/s13063-019-3920-4
  • Congratulations to Dr. Mhatre and co-authors for their recent publication.  Citation below:
    • Mhatre, Anand, Norman Reese, and Jon Pearlman. "Design and evaluation of a laboratory-based wheelchair castor testing protocol using community data." PloS one 15.1 (2020).

Funding Announcements: 

RST grant submission form: link

  • The DOD just announced several grant opportunities, including related to P&O: link
  • DOT recently announced an inclusive design challenge (see attached andhttps://www.transportation.gov/accessibility/inclusivedesig
  • Neilson Foundation announced their Creating Opportunity & Independence Grants. Due in Jan 2020.  link
  •  Pitt’s Innovation In Education Awards of up to 25k are due Jan 31st link
  • Pitt’s Seed awards for up to $50,000 are available.  LOI’s are due Feb 7th.  More info here
  •  NIDILRR grant info can be found here link 

Job Announcements:

Other announcements:

  • RST is growing!  Recruitment for two new faculty in RST was successful and Rachel Hibbs, DPTwill start on Feb 1st as the new Director of Continuing Education (CE) Program, and Helen Cochrane, MSc, CPO will start around April 1st as the new Director of the Prosthetics and Orthotics Program. 
  • RST updated physical security by adding key-card access to all doors along the 4th floor corridor and also key labs.  4th floor corridor doors will be unlocked from 8:30am – 5pm on workdays, and accessible via key-card during other times/days.  Key labs have additional key-card restrictions.  Reach out to Dan Fisher with any questions (and refer to his email from early today for further details) 
  • It’s that time of year again…to buy girl scout cookies from Tyler. 
  • Please see attached for SHRS’s social media policies.
  • Save the date for the Feb 21st for the SHRS Collaborative Care Conference in Forbes Tower
  • The 2019/2020 academic calendar can be found here: link
  • Pitt is transitioning from coursweb to Canvas.  Information to help with this transition can be found here link
  • NIH is hosting a workshop on Physical Activity and Health of Wheelchair User March 30/31st.  Register here: link
  • Faculty & Staff can access the new school logos here: Faculty and Staff Resources site

Documents

Social Media Policy for SHRS June 2019.pdf

USDOT_InclusiveDesignChallenge.pdf

 

RST is on social media and is actively increasing outreach:

Please like/follow us:

01-07-2020

Events

Upcoming Events:

  • Tuesday, January 7th surplus will be picking up items from RST.  Unused furniture should be placed in the cubes outside of Megan D/Krithika’s office.

Funding Announcements: 

RST grant submission form: link

  • Neilson Foundation announced their Creating Opportunity & Independence Grants. Due in Jan 2020.  link
  • Pitt’s Innovation In Education Awards of up to 25k are due Jan 31st link
  • Pitt’s Seed awards for up to $50,000 are available.  LOI’s are due Feb 7th.  More info here
  • NIDILRR grant info can be found here link 

Other announcements:

  • The 2019/2020 academic calendar can be found here: link
  • Pitt is transitioning from coursweb to Canvas.  Information to help with this transition can be found here link
  • NIH is hosting a workshop on Physical Activity and Health of Wheelchair User March 30/31st.  Register here: link
  • Faculty Professional Development Courses can be found here: link
  • UCTL workshops can be found here: link
  • Faculty & Staff can access the new school logos here: Faculty and Staff Resources site
  • RST The Department is making funds available for research development activities that do not fall within the scope of currently funded grants/contracts and have potential to lead to a new funding proposal.  Up to $1000 dollars is available for a one-time development activity during this fiscal year. The funds may be requested when RDF and startup funds are expended. Faculty may also allocate your one-time request to a post-doc or research staff you supervise. Email Tricia & Dr. Pearlman for more information. 
  • WHO/Gate has an opening for a two year position to work on AT topics:  more info here

RST is on social media and is actively increasing outreach:

Please like/follow us:

12-16-2019

Events

Recent:

  • Friday, December 13th, the Pitt Provost approved RST’s request to establish a 1-year Masters in Rehab Technology (MRT).  We will be recruiting our first cohort of students in Fall 2020!
  • Friday, December 6th, 5-7:30 pm was RST’s holiday party in SPACES in BkSQ. Thanks to everyone for pitching in to make the event so successful.
  • Friday, December 6th—Meghan Wander have birth to a baby boy!

Upcoming Events:

  • Tuesday, December 17th (Faculty)- grades must be submitted and approved by 11:59pm. 
  • Tuesday, January 7th surplus will be picking up items from RST.  Unused furniture should be placed in the cubes outside of Megan D/Krithika’s office.. 

Publications & other accolades

(send info on accepted publications, abstracts, grants, etc.).

  • The following RST faculty were recognized at Pitt’s Innovation Institutes Celebration of Innovation: Drs. Brienza, Fiedler, Goldberg, and Pearlman. 
  • The following RST Faculty, Staff and Students were recognized at the holiday party.  Congrats everyone!
    • Teacher of the year: Dr. Chris Hovorka
    • Adjunct of the year: Bill Merlitti
    • Staff of the Year: Meghan Wander
    • Satria Ardianuari (Virginia Kaufman Award)
    • Grishma Thakrar (Virginia Kaufman Award)
    • Kevin Quinn (Virginia Kaufman Award)
    • Cecilia Lee-Houser (Virginia Kaufman Award)
    • Michael Huang (Sean & Stephanie Shimada Award)
    • Joseph Ott (Todd Hargroder Award)
    • Hailee Kulich (Thomas O’Conner Award)

Funding Announcements: 

RST grant submission form: link

  • CTSI has a funding available for Geographical Determinants of Health (link) Due Dec 18th. 
  • Neilson Foundation announced their Creating Opportunity & Independence Grants. Due in Jan 2020.  link
  • CMRF intramural grant solicitations are open and due Monday Jan 6th for up to 40k: link
  • Pitt’s Innovation In Education Awards of up to 25k are due Jan 31st link
  • NIDILRR grant info can be found here link 

Other announcements:

  • See attached for Pitt’s new class cancelation policy.
  • Pitt is transitioning from coursweb to Canvas.  Information to help with this transition can be found here link
  • The MSPO program is doing a Yankee Candle fundraiser! The fundraiser runs from now until January 6, and is ONLINE ONLY. If anyone would like to be invited to the online sale, please email Lauren Casertano at LLC40@pitt.edu and she will add you to the site. An email will then be sent to you so you can begin looking at the items being offered.
  • NIH is hosting a workshop on Physical Activity and Health of Wheelchair User March 30/31st.  Register here: link
  • Faculty Professional Development Courses can be found here: link
  • The SHRS Student Handbooks for Undergraduates, Graduates & PHD’s have been updated for the 2019-2020 academic year on the SHRS website.  All handbooks can be found on the website by clicking here.
  • Faculty & Staff can access the new school logos here: Faculty and Staff Resources site
  • RST The Department is making funds available for research development activities that do not fall within the scope of currently funded grants/contracts and have potential to lead to a new funding proposal.  Up to $1000 dollars is available for a one-time development activity during this fiscal year. The funds may be requested when RDF and startup funds are expended. Faculty may also allocate your one-time request to a post-doc or research staff you supervise. Email Tricia & Dr. Pearlman for more information.

RST is on social media and is actively increasing outreach:

Please like/follow us:

12-02-2019

Events

Recent:

  • Thursday, November 21st, Helen Cochrane, the chair of ISPO’s Education committee will be presenting
  • Monday, November 25th, the MSPO students participated in the Hearts to Soles event at Saint Mary of Mercy Church.

Upcoming Events:

  • Monday, Dec 2nd, is the last day to order your Pitt SHRS gear here: link (shipped)or link (pickup)
  • Friday, December 6th, 5-7:30 pm will be RST’s holiday party in SPACES in BkSQ.  Save the Date on your calendar!
  • Tuesday, December 17th (Faculty)- grades must be submitted and approved by 11:59pm. 


Publications & other accolades

  • Congratulations to RST Post-Doc Dr. Anand Mhatre for recently being awarded two grants
  • CRISP (CTSI’s Research Initiative for Special Populations) Pilot Program on the “Characterization of a wheelchair wear index” ($25k)
  • Year of Creativity funding to support “Empowering people with disabilities with design skills training.” ($4k)

Funding Announcements: 

  • RST grant submission form: link
  • Venture Well E-Teams grants (for student teams) are open for application (link).  LOI due Dec 11th.   
  • CTSI has a funding available for Geographical Determinants of Health (link) Due Dec 18th.
  • SHRS’s Innovation Challenge includes funding awards info here (link) Due Dec 11th.
  • Neilson Foundation announced their Creating Opportunity & Independence Grants. Due in Jan 2020.  link
  • CMRF intramural grant solicitations are open and due Monday Jan 6th for up to 40k: link
  • Pitt’s Innovation In Education Awards of up to 25k are due Jan 31st link
  • NIDILRR grant info can be found here link


Other announcements:

  • The MSPO program is doing a Yankee Candle fundraiser! The fundraiser runs from now until January 6, and is ONLINE ONLY. If anyone would like to be invited to the online sale, please email Lauren Casertano at LLC40@pitt.edu and she will add you to the site. An email will then be sent to you so you can begin looking at the items being offered.
  • Job Announcement: senior rehab engineer in Australia: link
  • NIH is hosting a workshop on Physical Activity and Health of Wheelchair User March 30/31st.  Register here: link
  • Faculty Professional Development Courses can be found here: link
  • Consider endorsing the Bologna Declaration supporting AT link
  • The SHRS Student Handbooks for Undergraduates, Graduates & PHD’s have been updated for the 2019-2020 academic year on the SHRS website.  All handbooks can be found on the website by clicking here.
  • Faculty & Staff can access the new school logos here: Faculty and Staff Resources site
  • SHRS is hosting a blood drive on Thursday, Dec 12th from 8am-2pm in 7035 FTOW (see attachment)
  • RST The Department is making funds available for research development activities that do not fall within the scope of currently funded grants/contracts and have potential to lead to a new funding proposal.  Up to $1000 dollars is available for a one-time development activity during this fiscal year. The funds may be requested when RDF and startup funds are expended. Faculty may also allocate your one-time request to a post-doc or research staff you supervise. Email Tricia & Dr. Pearlman for more information.

RST is on social media and is actively increasing outreach:

Please like/follow us:

11-19-2019

Events

Recent:

  • Thursday, November 14th, Doug Call from AOPA presented
  • Friday, November 15th, 12:30-2:30, Dr. Wu presenting about his sandcasting technology
  • Saturday, November 16th, Dr. Dave Brienza presented a talk titled “Understanding Pressure Injury Etiology: Beyond Ischemia” at the  International Pressure Injury Guidelines Launch Event at the University of Southern California. (link)

Upcoming Events:

  • Wednesday, November 20th, RSTGSO will be hosting a fundraiser at Choolah from 11am-9pm.  To support us please show the attached flyer or simply mention to the cashier when ordering, that you are at Choolaah to support RSTGSO. Choolaah is donating 30% of meal prices to the student organization. Stop by for lunch or dinner! (see attachment for more info).
  • Thursday, November 21st, Helen Cochrane, the chair of ISPO’s Education committee will be presenting
  • Friday, December 6th, 5-7:30 pm will be RST’s holiday party in SPACES in BkSQ.  Save the Date on your calendar!

Publications & other accolades

  • Congratulations to RST Post-Doc Dr. Anand Mhatre for recently being awarded two grants
  • CRISP (CTSI’s Research Initiative for Special Populations) Pilot Program on the “Characterization of a wheelchair wear index” ($25k)
  • Year of Creativity funding to support “Empowering people with disabilities with design skills training.” ($4k)

Funding Announcements: 

  • RST grant submission form: link
  • SHRS’s Innovation Challenge includes funding awards info here (link)
  • Neilson Foundation announced their Creating Opportunity & Independence Grants. Due in Jan 2020.  link
  • CMRF intramural grant solicitations are open and due Monday Jan 6th for up to 40k: link
  • NIDILRR grant info can be found here link 


Other announcements:

  • NIH is hosting a workshop on Physical Activity and Health of Wheelchair User March 30/31st.  Register here: link
  • Faculty Professional Development Courses can be found here: link
  • Consider endorsing the Bologna Declaration supporting AT link
  • The SHRS Student Handbooks for Undergraduates, Graduates & PHD’s have been updated for the 2019-2020 academic year on the SHRS website.  All handbooks can be found on the website by clicking here.
  • Faculty & Staff can access the new school logos here: Faculty and Staff Resources site
  • SHRS is hosting a blood drive on Thursday, Dec 12th from 8am-2pm in 7035 FTOW (see attachment)
  • RST The Department is making funds available for research development activities that do not fall within the scope of currently funded grants/contracts and have potential to lead to a new funding proposal.  Up to $1000 dollars is available for a one-time development activity during this fiscal year. The funds may be requested when RDF and startup funds are expended. Faculty may also allocate your one-time request to a post-doc or research staff you supervise. Email Tricia & Dr. Pearlman for more information. 

RST is on social media and is actively increasing outreach:

Please like/follow us:

11-11-2019

Events

Recent:

  • Friday, Nov 8th, RST co-hosted with HERL a tour of Paralyzed Veterans of America (PVA) foundation members.  Several RST faculty have received funding through PVA.  Thanks Tricia Karg and the rest of the RST team for a successful tour!

Upcoming Events:

  • Thursday, November 14th, Doug Call from AOPA will be presenting (Lunch Provided)
  • Friday, November 15th, 12:30-2:30, Dr. Wu will be presenting about his sandcasting technology (Lunch Provided)
  • Thursday, November 21st, Helen Cochrane, the chair of ISPO’s Education committee will be presenting (Lunch Provided)
  • Friday, December 6th, 5-7:30 pm will be RST’s holiday party in SPACES in BkSQ.  Save the Date on your calendar!!


Funding Announcements: 

  • RST grant submission form: link
  • SHRS’s Innovation Challenge includes funding awards info here (link)
  • Neilson Foundation announced their Creating Opportunity & Independence Grants. Due in Jan 2020.  link
  • CMRF intramural grant solicitations are open and due Monday Jan 6th for up to 40k: link
  • NIDILRR grant info can be found here link 


Other announcements:

  • NIH is hosting a workshop on Physical Activity and Health of Wheelchair User March 30/31st.  Register here: link
  • Faculty Professional Development Courses can be found here: link
  • Consider endorsing the Bologna Declaration supporting AT link
  • The SHRS Student Handbooks for Undergraduates, Graduates & PHD’s have been updated for the 2019-2020 academic year on the SHRS website.  All handbooks can be found on the website by clicking here.
  • Faculty & Staff can access the new school logos here: Faculty and Staff Resources site
  • RESNA Call for Proposals are Open. First deadline is Nov 15th. link

RST is on social media and is actively increasing outreach:

Please like/follow us:

10-29-2019

Events

Recent:

  • RST had over 50 people at the tailgate and 40 people who purchased tickets to the game last Saturday.  Thanks to everyone who helped coordinate and those who came. We plan to make this an annual event!
  • P&O had a great turn-out for their career fair on October 14th and 15th.  A total of 54 interviews were held by Hanger, AALOS, MedEastOrtho, and Union. 

Upcoming Events:

  • Wednesday, October 30th,  12-1:30pm,  Dr. Gerry Stark from Ottobock will be presenting the Clinical Overview of the C-Brace.  Lunch will be provided as part of this lunch & learn. 
  • Thursday, October 31st, 12:30 – 1:30 will be the RST Halloween Costume Party.  Info attached.  For 5$ dress up and receive 5 tickets for the 50/50 drawing.  $1 for additional tickets.  Pizza and drinks provided
  • Friday, November 1: Prof. Eunjing Kin of Syracuse University will be visiting (http://thecollege.syr.edu/people/faculty/pages/wgs/kim-eunjung.html).  She will be giving a talk on her award-winning book, Curative Violence: Rehabilitating Disability, Gender, and Sexuality in Modern Korea, at 3:00 in Posvar Hall 4130.  See info attached.
  • Friday, December 6th, 5-7:30 pm will be RST’s holiday party in SPACES in BkSQ.  Save the Date on your calendar!


Funding Announcements: 

  • SCIVELO LOIs are due Nov 6th.  link
  • Neilson Foundation announced their Creating Opportunity & Independence Grants. Due in Jan 2020.  link
  • Merit and Tim Sell Scholarship applications available on-line.  Deadline is November 1st.  Click here for more information.
  • CMRF intramural grant solicitations are open and due Monday Jan 6th for up to 40k: link
  • NIDILRR grant info can be found here link
  • NICHD recently published their strategic plan: link


Other announcements:

  • RT & P&O clothing is available for order. For RT, see attached form for the RT program (Nov 4th deadline)
  • P&O is fundraising for a few causes:
    • We are taking donations for a care package for our adjunct professor Jeff Kuhn as he is going through dialysis and awaiting a donor kidney. We are asking for $5 donations. It can be given to any POSO officer. We also ask for people to spread the word, his website is https://www.jeffkuhnneedsakidney.com if you could please share the link.
    • An indoor cycling charity event on November 8th, 2019. We will riding for six hours from midnight to 6 am. 100% of profits will go to charity: 50% will be donated to the Children's Hospital of UPMC, and other 50% will go to the team that raises the most donations charity of choice. We have a minimum goal of $600 as a team. Last year this event was able to raise over $17,000 and we are hoping to beat that goal. To donate they can: give cash to either Kevin Quinn, Bri Perry, or Cecelia Houser or go to https://clients.mindbodyonline.com/ASP/main_shop.asp  make sure they are giving a THON donation, give any amount, and put "Cecelia's Team" in either the "to" or "subject" line.
  • UIUC has two faculty positions described here and here
  • NIH is hosting a workshop on Physical Activity and Health of Wheelchair User March 30/31st.  Register here: link
  • Faculty Professional Development Courses can be found here: link
  • Consider endorsing the Bologna Declaration supporting AT link
  • The SHRS Student Handbooks for Undergraduates, Graduates & PHD’s have been updated for the 2019-2020 academic year on the SHRS website.  All handbooks can be found on the website by clicking here.
  • Faculty & Staff can access the new school logos here: Faculty and Staff Resources site
  • RESNA Call for Proposals are Open. First deadline is Nov 15th. link
  • RST Has announced two faculty positions: P&O Director & CE Director. 

RST is on social media and is actively increasing outreach:

Please like/follow us:

10-22-2019

Events

Upcoming:

  • October 24, is the  “SHRS United Way Tailgate Party” to benefit the United Way! The event will be held from 3:30 – 5 p.m. at Forbes Tower in the student lounge (4th floor). Details here: SHRS Chili Cookoff
  • Oct. 24th-25th : Dr. David Brienza will be a Keynote Speaker at the 2nd World Conference on Advance Treatments & Technologies in Wound Care in Dusseldorf, Germany.
  • October 25th: Spring Term Enrollment Appointments Begin Oct 25th (veteran students) and Oct 28th for non-veteran students.
  • October 26th: The RST Homecoming Tailgate (starts at 9:30) and Game (starts at noon). RSVP for the tailgate here and get tickets to the game here.  Additional info attached!
  • October 28 from 9:30-12:00: Workshop communication apps (see attachment). Location at CLASS, 1400 South Braddock Ave. Pittsburgh 15218. Please RSVP to cchamberlain@classcommunity.com by oct 21st if you are interested.
  • Friday, November 1: Prof. Eunjing Kin of Syracuse University will be visiting (http://thecollege.syr.edu/people/faculty/pages/wgs/kim-eunjung.html).  She will be giving a talk on her award-winning book, Curative Violence: Rehabilitating Disability, Gender, and Sexuality in Modern Korea, at 3:00 in Posvar Hall 4130
  • Friday, December 6th, 5-7:30 pm will be RST’s holiday party in SPACES in BkSQ.  Save the Date on your calendar!


Publications & other accolades:

(send info on accepted publications, abstracts, grants, etc.!)

  • RST was highlighted in the Facets 50th Anniversary Issue.  Thanks to everyone who contributed to the stories on the ATP and the future of P&O: link
  • RST just launched a MOOC on Coursera as part of the IMPACT project.  The course can be accessed here: link


Funding Announcements: 

  • RST grant submission process is now formalized and includes strict timelines and a submission form: link
  • NICHD recently published their strategic plan: link
  • Neilson Foundation announced their Creating Opportunity & Independence Grants. Due in Jan 2020.  link
  • Merit and Tim Sell Scholarship applications available on-line.  Deadline is November 1st.  Click here for more information.
  • CMRF intramural grant solicitations are open and due Monday Jan 6th for up to 40k: link
  • NIDILRR grant info can be found here link


Other announcements:

  • RT & P&O clothing is available for order. For RT, see attached form for the RT program (Nov 4th deadline) and P&O Program here: link (Oct 28 deadline)
  • P&O is fundraising for a few causes:
    • We are taking donations for a care package for our adjunct professor Jeff Kuhn as he is going through dialysis and awaiting a donor kidney. We are asking for $5 donations. It can be given to any POSO officer. We also ask for people to spread the word, his website is https://www.jeffkuhnneedsakidney.com if you could please share the link.
    • An indoor cycling charity event on November 8th, 2019. We will riding for six hours from midnight to 6 am. 100% of profits will go to charity: 50% will be donated to the Children's Hospital of UPMC, and other 50% will go to the team that raises the most donations charity of choice. We have a minimum goal of $600 as a team. Last year this event was able to raise over $17,000 and we are hoping to beat that goal. To donate they can: give cash to either Kevin Quinn, Bri Perry, or Cecelia Houser or go to https://clients.mindbodyonline.com/ASP/main_shop.asp  make sure they are giving a THON donation, give any amount, and put "Cecelia's Team" in either the "to" or "subject" line. 
  • UIUC has two faculty positions described here and here
  • Faculty Professional Development Courses can be found here: link
  • Consider endorsing the Bologna Declaration supporting AT link
  • The SHRS Student Handbooks for Undergraduates, Graduates & PHD’s have been updated for the 2019-2020 academic year on the SHRS website.  All handbooks can be found on the website by clicking here.
  • Faculty & Staff can access the new school logos here: Faculty and Staff Resources site
  • RESNA Call for Proposals are Open. First deadline is Nov 15th. link
  • RST Has announced two faculty positions: P&O Director & CE Director.  

RST is on social media and is actively increasing outreach:

Please like/follow us:

09-10-2019

Events

Recent:

  • RST Faculty/Chair Dr. Jon Pearlman and post-doc Dr. Anand Mhatre are attending the ISO 7176 wheelchair standards meeting in Tokyo from Sept 9th-13th.

Upcoming:

  • Friday, Sept. 6th: Fall Term add/drop period ends
  • September 19th from 3-5pm: The SHRS Fall Social on the 4th Floor of FTOW.
  • September 20th 3-4:30: RST is hosting alumni Dr. Carmen DiGiovine from The Ohio State University (link) present a lecture on their Rehab Services program on in FTOW 4060.  RST will also be presenting the Cooper/Johnson award for the best MS and PhD/Post-Doc papers.
  • September 24-25, 2019: The Assistive Technology Maker’s Fair Conference is scheduled for. Dr. Therese Willkomm (RST Grad) will be running her Make AT café and is recruiting 15 volunteers to help.   Please fill out this form if you are interested in volunteering  link
  • Saturday, Oct 12th: The Steelwheelers are hosting the 19th Annual 5K Run/Walk/Wheel.If you would like to participate, please see the attached flyer.  If you are interested in volunteering, please contact Laurie Lacher at 412-487-7644.  They are looking for 5 volunteers.
  • Oct. 24th-25th : Dr. David Brienza will be a Keynote Speaker at the 2nd World Conference on Advance Treatments & Technologies in Wound Care in Dusseldorf, Germany.
  • October 28 from 9:30-12:00: Workshop communication apps (see attachment). Location at CLASS, 1400 South Braddock Ave. Pittsburgh 15218. Please RSVP to cchamberlain@classcommunity.com by oct 21st if you are interested.(Flyer)
  • Friday, November 1: Prof. Eunjing Kin of Syracuse University will be visiting (http://thecollege.syr.edu/people/faculty/pages/wgs/kim-eunjung.html).  She will be giving a talk on her award-winning book, Curative Violence: Rehabilitating Disability, Gender, and Sexuality in Modern Korea, at 3:00 in Posvar Hall 4130


Publications & other accolades:

(send info on accepted publications, abstracts, grants, etc.!)


Funding Announcements: 

  • Applications for the Lemelson-MIT student prize are due Sept. 27th.  Info here: link
  • Neilson Foundation announced their Creating Opportunity & Independence Grants. Due in Jan 2020.  link
  • Merit and Tim Sell Scholarship applications available on-line.  Deadline is November 1st.  Click here for more information.
  • CMRF intramural grant solicitations are open and due Monday Jan 6th for up to 40k: link
  • NIDILRR grant info can be found here link
  • The SHRS Student Handbooks for Undergraduates, Graduates & PHD’s have been updated for the 2019-2020 academic year on the SHRS website.  All handbooks can be found on the website by clicking here.


Other announcements:

 

RST is on social media and is actively increasing outreach:

Please like/follow us:

09-04-2019

Events

Recent:

  • RST PhD student Alex Miles attended the AAATE Conference in Bologna Italy to present ISWP work on product and service standards (Link)
  • RST Faculty Dr. Mark Schmeler and RST PhD student Yohali Burrola are currently at the ASCIP conference representing RST, ISWP, and RSTCE.
  • Dr. Jon Duvall, a current HERL post-doc, RST instructor, and former RST PhD student was interviewed on Joyce Bender’s Disability Matters Podcast.  He discussed several RST and HERL initiatives, including ISWP pathVu. 

Upcoming:

  • RST Brown Bag Lunch event! Richard Sherman, immigration specialist at Pitt’s OIS, will be presenting “Introduction to Intercultural Competency” on Wednesday, September 4th from 12 Noon – 1:00 PM in the RST Conference Room
  • 7th Annual ReelAbilities Pittsburgh Film Festival will take place September 4th – September 11th at the South Side Works Cinema.  For advance purchased you can receive a discount using the discount code: HSD-1 (Link)
  • SHRS is hosting a school-wide event linked to Access + Ability exhibit at the Carnegie Museum of Art on September 5th.  A panel discussion will begin at 3pm, followed by free admission to the exhibit followed by a picnic dinner from 5:30 – 7:30.  RSVP deadline has passed but the panel discussion will be streamed live on SHRS’s Facebook and Instagram channels. 
  • Friday, Sept. 6th- Fall Term add/drop period ends
  • The SHRS Fall Social is Scheduled for September 19th from 3-5pm on the 4th Floor of FTOW.
  • RST is hosting alumni Dr. Carmen DiGiovine from The Ohio State University (link) present a lecture on their Rehab Services program on September 20th 3-4:30 in FTOW 4060.  RST will also be presenting the Cooper/Johnson award for the best MS and PhD/Post-Doc papers.  Please send entries to Tricia Karg (tkarg@pitt.edu) by September 4th for consideration.  Papers shold be published between Jan 1st, 2018 and September 1st, 2019.
  • The Assistive Technology Maker’s Fair Conference is scheduled for September 24-25, 2019. Dr. Therese Willkomm (RST Grad) will be running her Make AT café and is recruiting 15 volunteers to help.   Please fill out this form if you are interested in volunteering  link
  • The Steelwheelers are hosting the 19th Annual 5K Run/Walk/Wheel Saturday, Oct 12th.  If you would like to participate, please see the attached flyer.  If you are interested in volunteering, please contact Laurie Lacher at 412-487-7644.  They are looking for 5 volunteers.
  • Dr. David Brienza will be a Keynote Speaker at the 2nd World Conference on Advance Treatments & Technologies in Wound Care in Dusseldorf, Germany, Oct. 24th-25th.


Publications & other accolades:

(send info on accepted publications, abstracts, grants, etc.!)


Funding Announcements: 

  • Applications for the Lemelson-MIT student prize are due Sept. 27th.  Info here: link
  • Neilson Foundation announced their Creating Opportunity & Independence Grants. Due in Jan 2020.  link
  • Merit and Tim Sell Scholarship applications available on-line.  Deadline is November 1st.  Click here for more information.
  • NIDILRR grant info can be found here link


Other announcements:

 

RST is on social media and is actively increasing outreach:

Please like/follow us:

08-27-2019

Events (recent and upcoming):

  • RST’s new student orientation was last Friday, August 23rd.  Welcome all of the new students!  Some key dates to keep in mind:
    • Friday, Sept. 6th- Fall Term add/drop period ends
    • Thursday, Sept. 19th – SHRS Fall Social from 3-5pm in Forbes Tower student lounge. 
    • Monday, Sept 23rd – Merit and Tim Sell Scholarship applications available on-line.  Deadline is November 1st.  Click here for more information.
  • Drs. Jon Pearlman & Anand Mhatre and three other RST Alumni (Drs. Maria Toro and Eliana Chavez, and Yasmin Garcia) were World Health Organization for the GReAT Consultation on August 23rd and 24th (link)
  • RST Brown Bag Lunch event! Richard Sherman, immigration specialist at Pitt’s OIS, will be presenting “Introduction to Intercultural Competency” on Wednesday, September 4th from 12 Noon – 1:00 PM in the RST Conference Room
  • SHRS is hosting a school-wide event linked to Access + Ability exhibit at the Carnegie Museum of Art on September 5th.  A panel discussion will begin at 3pm, followed by free admission to the exhibit followed by a picnic dinner from 5:30 – 7:30.  All SHR Students, Faculty & Staff are invited. Attendance is encouraged for everyone in RST, and instructors should try to formally integrate this event into their course agenda.
  • The SHRS Fall Social is Scheduled for September 19th from 3-5pm on the 4th Floor of FTOW. 
  • RST is hosting alumni Dr. Carmen DiGiovine from The Ohio State University (link) present a lecture on their Rehab Services program on September 20th 3-4:30 in FTOW 4060.  RST will also be presenting the Cooper/Johnson award for the best MS and PhD/Post-Doc papers.  Please send entries to Tricia Karg (tkarg@pitt.edu) by September 4th for consideration.  Papers shold be published between Jan 1st, 2018 and September 1st, 2019.
  • The Assistive Technology Maker’s Fair Conference is scheduled for September 24-25, 2019. Dr. Therese Willkomm (RST Grad) will be running her Make AT café and is recruiting 15 volunteers to help.   Please fill out this form if you are interested in volunteering  link
  • The Steelwheelers are hosting the 19th Annual 5K Run/Walk/Wheel Saturday, Oct 12th.  If you would like to participate, please see the attached flyer.  If you are interested in volunteering, please contact Laurie Lacher at 412-487-7644.  They are looking for 5 volunteers.
  • Dr. David Brienza will be a Keynote Speaker at the 2nd World Conference on Advance Treatments & Technologies in Wound Care in Dusseldorf, Germany, Oct. 24th-25th.


Publications & other accolades:  (send info on accepted publications, abstracts, grants, etc.!)

  • Congratulations to Quamar, A.H., Schmeler, M.R., Collins, D.M., & Schein, R.M for having their manuscript titled Information communication technology-enabled instrumental activities of daily living: A paradigm shift in functional assessment published in Disability and Rehabilitation: Assistive Technology, Published online: 16 Aug 2019. DOI:10.1080/17483107.2019.1650298.
  • Congratulations to P&O student Charles Noble for receiving the ninth annual Edwin and Kathryn Arbogast Award for his abstract titled Is the Allied Health Field “Passing the Buck” Regarding Fall Training?
  • Congratulations to P&O student Erin McGraw for receiving the ninth annual Otto and Lucille Becker Award  for the abstract titled “Comparing the Comfort of Ankle Foot Orthosis Designs:  Sleeve Cover vs. Traditional Cuff Strap”


Funding Announcements: 

  • Applications for the Lemelson-MIT student prize are due Sept. 27th.  Info here: link
  • Neilson Foundation announced their Creating Opportunity & Independence Grants. Due in Jan 2020.  link
  • NIDILRR grant info can be found here link


Other announcements:

Extended Drop Period
Under special circumstances, undergraduate students may be eligible to drop a course in the third week of the fall or spring semester.
Students must meet all of the following criteria to drop a course during the extended drop period:

  • Must be an Undergraduate student and the course you are dropping must be an Undergraduate course.
  • Students must remain in full-time status after dropping the course(s).
  • Students must review the proposed drop with their academic advisor.
  • If the student’s advisor finds that the student is eligible, the advisor must provide permission to drop via email to SHRS Student Services. Students do not have access to drop classes during the extended period.
  • The email request must include all student and course information. (Students name, PeopleSoft ID #, Subject, number, section, credits) process the drop(s).

 

RST is on social media and is actively increasing outreach:

Please like/follow us:

08-20-2019

Events (recent and upcoming):

  • Dr. Christopher Hovorka delivered a podium presentation entitled, 
    "Relationship between muscle activation and ankle motion in an ankle foot orthosis-footwear combination", at the Congress of the International Society of Biomechanics in conjunction with the Annual Meeting of the American Society of Biomechanics in Calgary, Alberta, Canada, July 31-August 4
  • Drs. Jon Pearlman & Anand Mhatre will be at the World Health Organization representing RST and ISWP at the GReAT Consultation August 23rd and 24th (link)
  • RST’s new student orientation for incoming students in the Rehab Tech and MSPO Programs, 12:00-1:00pm, Friday, 23 August, RST Conference Room, followed by appetizers at Social (starting at 4pm).
  • RST Brown Bag Lunch event! Richard Sherman, immigration specialist at Pitt’s OIS, will be presenting “Introduction to Intercultural Competency” on Wednesday, September 4th from 12 Noon – 1:00 PM in the RST Conference Room
  • SHRS is hosting a school-wide event linked to Access + Ability exhibit at the Carnegie Museum of Art on September 5th.  A panel discussion will begin at 3pm, followed by free admission to the exhibit followed by a picnic dinner from 5:30 – 7:30.  All SHR Students, Faculty & Staff are invited. Attendance is encouraged for everyone in RST, and instructors should try to formally integrate this event into their course agenda.
  • The SHRS Fall Social is Scheduled for September 19th from 3-5pm on the 4th Floor of FTOW. 
  • RST is hosting alumni Dr. Carmen DiGiovine from The Ohio State University (link) present a lecture on their Rehab Services program on September 20th 3-4:30 in FTOW 4060.  RST will also be presenting the Cooper/Johnson award for the best MS and PhD/Post-Doc papers.  Please send entries to Tricia Karg (tkarg@pitt.edu) by September 4th for consideration.  Papers shold be published between Jan 1st, 2018 and September 1st, 2019.
  • The Assistive Technology Maker’s Fair Conference is scheduled for September 24-25, 2019. Dr. Therese Willkomm (RST Grad) will be running her Make AT café and is recruiting 15 volunteers to help.   Please fill out this form if you are interested in volunteering  link
  • The Steelwheelers are hosting the 19th Annual 5K Run/Walk/Wheel Saturday, Oct 12th.  If you would like to participate, please see the attached flyer.  If you are interested in volunteering, please contact Laurie Lacher at 412-487-7644.  They are looking for 5 volunteers. Document
  • Dr. David Brienza will be a Keynote Speaker at the 2nd World Conference on Advance Treatments & Technologies in Wound Care in Dusseldorf, Germany, Oct. 24th-25th.

Publications & other accolades:  (send info on accepted publications, abstracts, grants, etc.!)

  • Congrats to Dave Brienza, Tricia Karg and Andrew Malkiewicz for having their patent issued for an Actively and Selectively Cooled Cushion.  link

Funding Announcements: 

  • BNY Mellon’s UP Prize info session is on 8/1.  RST teams have made it to the semi-finals in this competition, so it may be a great option for funding.  link
  • The LiveWell RERC just released their App Factor RFP which supports app development.  Due Aug 15th link
  • Applications for the Lemelson-MIT student prize are due Sept. 27th.  Info here: link
  • Neilson Foundation announced their Creating Opportunity & Independence Grants. Due in Jan 2020.  link
  • NIDILRR grant info can be found here link

Other announcements

  • The Ohio State Medical Center is recruiting for a Rehab Engineer.  Job description is attached. Emailtheresa.berner@osumc.edu for more information.: link

RST is on social media and is actively increasing outreach:

Please like/follow us:

Share these videos of our programs:

08-12-2019

Events (recent and upcoming):

  • RST MS Student Satria Arduanuari recently attended the 2019 International/American Society of Biomechanics (I/ASB) Congress in Calgary, AB, Canada from July 31st to August 4th. I presented my study on two-dimensional gait kinematics analysis in prosthetic/orthotic practice. (pics)
  • RST PhD Student Yohali Burrola recently led a WHO wheelchair service training course in Nicaragua at Cielo De Amor (www.cielodeamor.org). several great photos here: pics
  • RST’s Intern Send-off is scheduled for August 8th, 11am-12:30.  Pizza lunch will follow brief intern presentations (flyer attached).
  • Faculty Activity Reports (FARS) are due August 16th
  • RST’s new student orientation for incoming students in the Rehab Tech and MSPO Programs, 12:00-1:00pm, Friday, 23 August, RST Conference Room, followed by appetizers at Social (starting at 4pm).
  • RST Brown Bag Lunch event! Richard Sherman, immigration specialist at Pitt’s OIS, will be presenting “Introduction to Intercultural Competency” on Wednesday, September 4th from 12 Noon – 1:00 PM in the RST Conference Room
  • SHRS is hosting a school-wide event linked to Access + Ability exhibit at the Carnegie Museum of Art on September 5th.  A panel discussion will begin at 3pm, followed by free admission to the exhibit followed by a picnic dinner from 5:30 – 7:30.  All SHR Students, Faculty & Staff are invited. Attendance is encouraged for everyone in RST, and instructors should try to formally integrate this event into their course agenda.
  • The SHRS Fall Social is Scheduled for September 19th from 3-5pm on the 4th Floor of FTOW. 
  • RST is hosting alumni Dr. Carmen DiGiovine from The Ohio State University (link) present a lecture on their Rehab Services program on September 20th 3-4:30 in FTOW 4060.  RST will also be presenting the Cooper/Johnson award for the best MS and PhD/Post-Doc papers.  Please send entries to Tricia Karg (tkarg@pitt.edu) by September 4th for consideration.  Papers shold be published between Jan 1st, 2018 and September 1st, 2019.
  • The Assistive Technology Maker’s Fair Conference is scheduled for September 24-25, 2019. Dr. Therese Willkomm (RST Grad) will be running her Make AT café and is recruiting 15 volunteers to help.   Please fill out this form if you are interested in volunteering  link
  • Dr. David Brienza will be a Keynote Speaker at the 2nd World Conference on Advance Treatments & Technologies in Wound Care in Dusseldorf, Germany, Oct. 24th-25th.

Publications & other accolades:  (send info on accepted publications, abstracts, grants, etc.!)

  • Congratulations to Dr. Chris Hovorka for being awarded an AOPA-COPL Pilot Research Grant Award.
  • Dr. Goeran Fiedler’s paper on Vision Blinding approved for publication in JSPO is now available: link

Funding Announcements: 

  • BNY Mellon’s UP Prize info session is on 8/1.  RST teams have made it to the semi-finals in this competition, so it may be a great option for funding.  link
  • The LiveWell RERC just released their App Factor RFP which supports app development.  Due Aug 15th link
  • Applications for the Lemelson-MIT student prize are due Sept. 27th.  Info here: link
  • Neilson Foundation announced their Creating Opportunity & Independence Grants. Due in Jan 2020.  link
  • NIDILRR grant info can be found here link

Other announcements

  • The Ohio State Medical Center is recruiting for a Rehab Engineer.  Job description is attached. Emailtheresa.berner@osumc.edu for more information.: link

RST is on social media and is actively increasing outreach:

Please like/follow us:

Share these videos of our programs:

07-30-2019

Events (recent and upcoming):

  • Pitt/ HCEC/ OPAF event Saturday July 20th, Dr. Peterson and 7 MSPO students attended, O&P professionals and community members (pics)
  • Three Rivers adaptive sports event this past week, Lake Conneaut, Bob Maguire and 1 MSPO student attended (pics)
  • RST’s Intern Send-off is scheduled for August 8th, 11am-12:30.  Pizza lunch will follow brief intern presentations (flyer attached).
  • Faculty Activity Reports (FARS) are due August 16th
  • RST’s new student orientation for incoming students in the Rehab Tech and MSPO Programs, 12:00-1:00pm, Friday, 23 August, RST Conference Room, followed by appetizers at Social (starting at 4pm).
  • SHRS is hosting a school-wide event linked to Access + Ability exhibit at the Carnegie Museum of Art on September 5th.  A panel discussion will begin at 3pm, followed by free admission to the exhibit followed by a picnic dinner from 5:30 – 7:30.  All SHR Students, Faculty & Staff are invited. Attendance is encouraged for everyone in RST, and instructors should try to formally integrate this event into their course agenda.
  • The Assistive Technology Maker’s Fair Conference is scheduled for September 24-25, 2019. Dr. Therese Willkomm (RST Grad) will be running her Make AT café and is recruiting 15 volunteers to help.  I will send out information next week on how to indicate your interest. 
  • Dr. David Brienza will be a Keynote Speaker at the 2nd World Conference on Advance Treatments & Technologies in Wound Care in Dusseldorf, Germany, Oct. 24th-25th.

Publications & other accolades:  (send info on accepted publications, abstracts, grants, etc.!)

Funding Announcements: 

  • BNY Mellon’s UP Prize info session is on 8/1.  RST teams have made it to the semi-finals in this competition, so it may be a great option for funding.  link
  • The LiveWell RERC just released their App Factor RFP which supports app development.  Due Aug 15th link
  • Applications for the Lemelson-MIT student prize are due Sept. 27th.  Info here: link
  • Neilson Foundation announced their Creating Opportunity & Independence Grants. Due in Jan 2020.  link
  • NIDILRR grant info can be found here link

Other announcements

  • The search for the SVC of the Health Sciences & Dean of the Med School has started.  There are several opportunities to engage in this process described here: link

RST is on social media and is actively increasing outreach:

Please like/follow us:

Share these videos of our programs:

 

07-22-2019

Events (recent and upcoming):

  • RST’s picnic was a great success.  Thanks to everyone who attended and the big effort by the coordinators—Dan, the social committee, and many other staff, faculty and students who pitched in.  here are some photos
  • SHRS’s Day @ PNC Park is August 16th.  RSVP by July 29th here: link
  • RST’s new student orientation for incoming students in the Rehab Tech and MSPO Programs, 12:00-1:00pm, Friday, 23 August, RST Conference Room, followed by appetizers at Social (starting at 4pm).
  • SHRS is hosting a school-wide event linked to Access + Ability exhibit at the Carnegie Museum of Art on September 5th.  A panel discussion will begin at 3pm, followed by free admission to the exhibit followed by a picnic dinner from 5:30 – 7:30.  All SHR Students, Faculty & Staff are invited. Attendance is encouraged for everyone in RST, and instructors should try to formally integrate this event into their course agenda.
  • The Assistive Technology Maker’s Fair Conference is scheduled for September 24-25, 2019. Dr. Therese Willkomm (RST Grad) will be running her Make AT café and is recruiting 15 volunteers to help.  I will send out information next week on how to indicate your interest. 
  • Dr. David Brienza will be a Keynote Speaker at the 2nd World Conference on Advance Treatments & Technologies in Wound Care in Dusseldorf, Germany, Oct. 24th-25th.

Publications & other accolades:  (send info on accepted publications, abstracts, grants, etc.!)

Funding Announcements: 

  • BNY Mellon’s UP Prize info session is on 8/1.  RST teams have made it to the semi-finals in this competition, so it may be a great option for funding.  link
  • The LiveWell RERC just released their App Factor RFP which supports app development.  Due Aug 15th link
  • Applications for the Lemelson-MIT student prize are due Sept. 27th.  Info here: link
  • Neilson Foundation announced their Creating Opportunity & Independence Grants. Due in Jan 2020.  link
  • NIDILRR grant info can be found here link
  • CDMRP announced it Orthotics and Prosthetics grants for 2019.  link
  • CDMRP posted webinars about their grant program.  Info here: link

Other announcements

  • Faculty are invited to request undergraduate research interns.  Application is attached.  More info here: link
  • The search for the SVC of the Health Sciences & Dean of the Med School has started.  There are several opportunities to engage in this process described here: link

RST is on social media and is actively increasing outreach:

Please like/follow us:

Share these videos of our programs:

 

07-16-2019

Events (recent and upcoming):

  • 10 RST students, 4 RST faculty members, and several other industry and clinical partners volunteered at the National Neurotrauma Society Conference on June 30th, at the Wyndham downtown. The goal was to provide an Assistive Technology showcase to the conference attendees, and included stations such as manual and power wheelchairs, AAC, ECU’s, adaptive video gaming, adaptive sports, and more. This effort was organized by RT Students Vince Schiappa and Bethany Semancik.
  • WHO’s REHAB 2030 wrapped up on July 11th in Geneva.  Several relevant topics to RST were covered, including patient-reported outcomes measures and AT service rehab interventions.  Presentations are here, and group photo here link.
  • SHRS’s Day @ PNC Park is August 16th.  RSVP by July 29th here: link
  • SHRS is hosting a school-wide event linked to Access + Ability exhibit at the Carnegie Museum of Art on September 5th.  A panel discussion will begin at 3pm, followed by free admission to the exhibit followed by a picnic dinner from 5:30 – 7:30.  All SHR Students, Faculty & Staff are invited. Attendance is encouraged for everyone in RST, and instructors should try to formally integrate this event into their course agenda.
  • The Assistive Technology Maker’s Fair Conference is scheduled for September 24-25, 2019. Dr. Therese Willkomm (RST Grad) will be running her Make AT café and is recruiting 15 volunteers to help.  I will send out information next week on how to indicate your interest. 
  • Dr. David Brienza will be a Keynote Speaker at the 2nd World Conference on Advance Treatments & Technologies in Wound Care in Dusseldorf, Germany, Oct. 24th-25th.

Publications & other accolades:  (send info on accepted publications, abstracts, grants, etc.!)

Funding Announcements: 

  • BNY Mellon’s UP Prize info session is on 8/1.  RST teams have made it to the semi-finals in this competition, so it may be a great option for funding.  link
  • The LiveWell RERC just released their App Factor RFP which supports app development.  Due Aug 15th link
  • Applications for the Lemelson-MIT student prize are due Sept. 27th.  Info here: link
  • Neilson Foundation announced their Creating Opportunity & Independence Grants. Due in Jan 2020.  link
  • NIDILRR grant info can be found here link
  • CDMRP announced it Orthotics and Prosthetics grants for 2019.  link
  • CDMRP posted webinars about their grant program.  Info here: link

Other announcements

  • Faculty are invited to request undergraduate research interns.  Application is attached.  More info here: link
  • The search for the SVC of the Health Sciences & Dean of the Med School has started.  There are several opportunities to engage in this process described here: link
  •  The AT Makers’ Fair has released a call for presenters.  The event is on Sept. 24th/25th.  link
  •  Use the Clinical and Translational Science Institute’s (CTSI) researcher database to identify collaborators.  Fill out the form here: link

RST is on social media and is actively increasing outreach:

Please like/follow us:

Share these videos of our programs:

 

07-08-2019

Events (recent and upcoming):

  • Dr. Jon Pearlman is representing RST and ISWP at the Rehab2030 Event on July 8th/9th in Geneva, Switzerland (link)
  • SHRS’s Day @ PNC Park is August 16th.  RSVP by July 29th here: link
  • SHRS is hosting a school-wide event linked to Access + Ability exhibit at the Carnegie Museum of Art on September 5th.  A panel discussion will begin at 3pm, followed by free admission to the exhibit followed by a picnic dinner from 5:30 – 7:30.  All SHR Students, Faculty & Staff are invited. Attendance is encouraged for everyone in RST, and instructors should try to formally integrate this event into their course agenda.
  • The Assistive Technology Maker’s Fair Conference is scheduled for September 24-25, 2019. Dr. Therese Willkomm (RST Grad) will be running her Make AT café and is recruiting 15 volunteers to help.  I will send out information next week on how to indicate your interest. 
  • Dr. David Brienza will be a Keynote Speaker at the 2nd World Conference on Advance Treatments & Technologies in Wound Care in Dusseldorf, Germany, Oct. 24th-25th.

Publications & other accolades:  (send info on accepted publications, abstracts, grants, etc.!)

Funding Announcements: 

  • The LiveWell RERC just released their App Factor RFP which supports app development.  Due Aug 15th link
  • Applications for the Lemelson-MIT student prize are due Sept. 27th.  Info here: link
  • Neilson Foundation announced their Creating Opportunity & Independence Grants. Due in Jan 2020.  link
  • NIDILRR grant info can be found here link
  • CDMRP announced it Orthotics and Prosthetics grants for 2019.  link
  • CDMRP posted webinars about their grant program.  Info here: link

Other announcements

  • Faculty are invited to request undergraduate research interns.  Application is attached.  More info here: link
  • The search for the SVC of the Health Sciences & Dean of the Med School has started.  There are several opportunities to engage in this process described here: link
  • The AT Makers’ Fair has released a call for presenters.  The event is on Sept. 24th/25th.  link
  •  Use the Clinical and Translational Science Institute’s (CTSI) researcher database to identify collaborators.  Fill out the form here: link

RST is on social media and is actively increasing outreach:

Please like/follow us:

Share these videos of our programs:

 

07-02-2019

Events (recent and upcoming):

  • A large team of RST faculty, students and staff attended RehabWeek in Toronto last week from June 24th-28th.  Projects/teams that led talks and workshops include the group from ISWP, IMPACT, HERL and RSTCE.  Congratulations on a job well done to the whole team, and thanks to everyone who helped coordinate the meeting and spend time at the booth representing our whole team. 
  • A leadership meeting between the International Society of Wheelchair Professionals (Mary Goldberg & Jon Pearlman), the International Society of Prosthetics and Orthotics (President Friedbert Kohler), and USAID (Michael Allen, Senior Advisor) was held prior to RehabWeek to discuss long-term collaborative opportunities to strengthen the global wheelchair sector.  Follow-up meetings are planned at Rehab2030 in Geneva on July 7th. 
  • SHRS’s Day @ PNC Park is August 16th.  RSVP by July 29th here: link
  • The Assistive Technology Maker’s Fair Conference is scheduled for September 24-25, 2019. Dr. Therese Willkomm (RST Grad) will be running her Make AT café and is recruiting 15 volunteers to help.  I will send out information next week on how to indicate your interest.  
  • Dr. David Brienza will be a Keynote Speaker at the 2nd World Conference on Advance Treatments & Technologies in Wound Care in Dusseldorf, Germany, Oct. 24th-25th.

Publications & other accolades:  (send info on accepted publications, abstracts, grants, etc.!)

  • The LiveWell RERC just released their App Factor RFP which supports app development.  Due Aug 15th link
  • Applications for the Lemelson-MIT student prize are due Sept. 27th.  Info here: link
  • Neilson Foundation announced their Creating Opportunity & Independence Grants. Due in Jan 2020.  link
  • NIDILRR grant info can be found here link
  • CDMRP announced it Orthotics and Prosthetics grants for 2019.  link
  • CDMRP posted webinars about their grant program.  Info here: link

Funding Announcements: 

  • Neilson Foundation announced their Creating Opportunity & Independence Grants. Due in Jan 2020.  link
  • NIDILRR grant info can be found here link
  • CDMRP announced it Orthotics and Prosthetics grants for 2019.  link
  • CDMRP announced it SCI grants for 2019.  LOI/Pre-submissions are due May 29th: link
  • CDMRP posted webinars about their grant program.  Info here: link0.

Other announcements

  • Faculty are invited to request undergraduate research interns.  Application is attached.  More info here: link
  • The search for the SVC of the Health Sciences & Dean of the Med School has started.  There are several opportunities to engage in this process described here: link
  • The AT Makers’ Fair has released a call for presenters.  The event is on Sept. 24th/25th.  link
  • Use the Clinical and Translational Science Institute’s (CTSI) researcher database to identify collaborators.  Fill out the form here: link

RST is on social media and is actively increasing outreach:

Please like/follow us:

Share these videos of our programs:

 

06-17-2019

Events (recent and upcoming):

  • Krithika Kandavel (RST Research & Training Coordinator) and her husband, Dinesh, had a baby boy on June 14th. Congratulations Krithika!
  • Ice Cream with Interns event this Wed (6/19) at 1:30pm.  More info attached.  
  • RST Hosted a visit last Monday from Dr. Alan Yan from UPMC.  link
  • CMU is hosting a Hardware Hackathon centered around reimagining the utility and playability of the powered wheelchair July 10th-12th. Info here. link
  • Bakery Square Tenant Picnic on Thursday, June 20th from 3-6 PM. This event will feature food and live music and will be held on the back patio of Bakery Square 2.0 building (see attached)
  • The P&O Program will be hosting a Lunch and Learn on Thursday, June 20th from 12 -1 pm in the RST Conference Room. The Lunch and Learn speaker is Karen Edwards, Director of the Ossur Women's Leadership Initiative and a Senior Area Manager for Prosthetics at Ossur. (info attached)
  • Vince Schiappa and Mark Schmeler attended and presented on Discrete Data Analyses of the FMA/UDS Outcomes Registry at the annual VGM Heartland Conference from June 10 to 13 in Waterloo, IA. There were over 500 attendees representing independent Complex Reb Technology Suppliers nationwide.  
  • RST finalized a contract with NuMotion for student fieldwork placements at more than 130 branches nationwide.

Publications & other accolades:  (send info on accepted publications, abstracts, grants, etc.!)

  • Congratulations to Mark Schmeler, Vince Schiappa, Richard Schein, and co-authors for their publication titled. Evaluation of Service Delivery Effectiveness through Patient Reported Outcome Measures in American Journal of Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation: doi: 10.1097/PHM.0000000000001245 link

Funding Announcements: 

  • Neilson Foundation announced their Creating Opportunity & Independence Grants. Due in Jan 2020.  link
  • NIDILRR grant info can be found here link
  • CDMRP announced it Orthotics and Prosthetics grants for 2019.  link
  • CDMRP announced it SCI grants for 2019.  LOI/Pre-submissions are due May 29th: link
  • CDMRP posted webinars about their grant program.  Info here: link0.

Other announcements

  • The search for the SVC of the Health Sciences & Dean of the Med School has started.  There are several opportunities to engage in this process described here: link
  • The AT Makers’ Fair has released a call for presenters.  The event is on Sept. 24th/25th.  lin
  • Use the Clinical and Translational Science Institute’s (CTSI) researcher database to identify collaborators.  Fill out the form here: link

RST is on social media and is actively increasing outreach:

Please like/follow us:

Facebook:
https://www.facebook.com/PittMSPO  
https://www.facebook.com/PittMSRT/

Twitter:
https://twitter.com/PittMSRT

Share these videos of our programs:

 

06-10-2019

Events (recent and upcoming):

  • Vincent Schiappa, Joseph Straatman, and Sandra Guzman attended the Latin American Seating Symposium last week in Buenos Ares, Argentina each delivering presentations and representing Pitt/RST.

Publications & other accolades:  (send info on accepted publications, abstracts, grants, etc.!)

  • Congratulations PhD Candidate Kritsa Kutina, her advisor Dr. Goeran Fiedler and other co-investigators for being awarded a Chancellor’s SEED grant for $50,000 for their project to test the efficacy of the MOVISU-FiT gait retraining program.
  • Congratulations To Joy Nix (lead author) and Dr. Mark Schmeler (senior author) and co-authors (Brienza, Schein, & Clayback) for publishing their paper titled An exploratory study analyzing demographics and opinions of assistive technology professionals within the complex rehab technology industry. In Assistive Technology.  Link

Funding Announcements: 

  • NIDILRR grant info can be found here link
  • CDMRP announced it Orthotics and Prosthetics grants for 2019.  link
  • CDMRP announced it SCI grants for 2019.  LOI/Pre-submissions are due May 29th: link
  • CDMRP posted webinars about their grant program.  Info here: link

Other announcements

  • The search for the SVC of the Health Sciences & Dean of the Med School has started.  There are several opportunities to engage in this process described here: link
  • The AT Makers’ Fair has released a call for presenters.  The event is on Sept. 24th/25th.  link
  • Use the Clinical and Translational Science Institute’s (CTSI) researcher database to identify collaborators.  Fill out the form here: link

RST is on social media and is actively increasing outreach:

Please like/follow us:

Facebook:
https://www.facebook.com/PittMSPO  
https://www.facebook.com/PittMSRT/

Twitter:
https://twitter.com/PittMSRT

Share these videos of our programs:

 

06-03-2019

Events (recent and upcoming):

  • Drs. Jon Pearlman and Anand Mhatre will be in Copenhagen, Denmark this week leading the ISO standards committee working group on manual wheelchair testing.

Publications & other accolades:  (send info on accepted publications, abstracts, grants, etc.!)

  • Congratulations (again) to RST PhD Student Yohali Burrola-Mendez (lead author) and RST co-authors Drs. Mary Goldberg and Jon Pearlman for having their paper titled Comparing the effectiveness of a hybrid and in-person courses of wheelchair service provision knowledge: A controlled quasi-experimental study in India and Mexico accepted for publication in PLOS ONE.  The paper is now available online: link

Funding Announcements: 

  • NIDILRR grant info can be found here link
  • CDMRP announced it Orthotics and Prosthetics grants for 2019.  link
  • CDMRP announced it SCI grants for 2019.  LOI/Pre-submissions are due May 29th: link
  • CDMRP posted webinars about their grant program.  Info here: link

Other announcements

  • The search for the SVC of the Health Sciences & Dean of the Med School has started.  There are several opportunities to engage in this process described here: link
  •  The AT Makers’ Fair has released a call for presenters.  The event is on Sept. 24th/25th.  link
  • Use the Clinical and Translational Science Institute’s (CTSI) researcher database to identify collaborators.  Fill out the form here: link

RST is on social media and is actively increasing outreach:

Please like/follow us:

Facebook:
https://www.facebook.com/PittMSPO  
https://www.facebook.com/PittMSRT/

Twitter:
https://twitter.com/PittMSRT

Share these videos of our programs:

 

05-28-2019

Events (recent and upcoming):

  • The POSO is having a fundraiser at Choolaah tomorrow (29th).  Print/show the flyer below, or just mention the fundraiser when ordering food and 30% of your purchase will come back to POSO

Publications & other accolades:  (send info on accepted publications, abstracts, grants, etc.!)

  • Congratulations to RST PhD Student Vince Schiappa for successfully passing his preliminary exams!
  • Congratulations to Assistant Professor Christopher Hovorka's who won the AMTI Force and Motion Best Scientific Achievement Award at the 2019 Human Movement Variability Conference held on the campus of the University of Nebraska at Omaha.
  • Congratulations to RST PhD Student Yohali Burrola-Mendez (lead author) and RST co-authors Drs. Mary Goldberg and Jon Pearlman for having their paper titled Comparing the effectiveness of a hybrid and in-person courses of wheelchair service provision knowledge: A controlled quasi-experimental study in India and Mexico accepted for publication in PLOS ONE
  • Congratulations to RST MS Student (graduated, lead author) Sara Munera and RST Co-author Dr. Jon Pearlman for having their paper titled Development and efficacy of an online wheelchair maintenance training program for wheelchair personnel accepted for publication in Assistive Technology

Funding Announcements: 

  • NIDILRR grant info can be found here link
  • CDMRP announced it Orthotics and Prosthetics grants for 2019.  link
  • CDMRP announced it SCI grants for 2019.  LOI/Pre-submissions are due May 29th: link
  • CDMRP posted webinars about their grant program.  Info here: link

Other announcements

  • Reminder: RST Faculty who intend to apply for promotion next year must submit a letter of intent by next Monday, June 3rd.
  • RST has a job opening for a Clinical & Research Coordinator who will support services at the CAT and also work with ISWP: link
  • The AT Makers’ Fair has released a call for presenters.  The event is on Sept. 24th/25th.  link
  • Use the Clinical and Translational Science Institute’s (CTSI) researcher database to identify collaborators.  Fill out the form here: link

RST is on social media and is actively increasing outreach:

Please like/follow us:

Facebook:
https://www.facebook.com/PittMSPO  
https://www.facebook.com/PittMSRT/

Twitter:
https://twitter.com/PittMSRT

Share these videos of our programs:

 

05-20-2019

Events (recent and upcoming):

  • The Prosthetics and Orthotics Student Organization (POSO) is selling gift cards for Texas Roadhouse as they prepare to head into their second year of classes. 10% of all funds raised will go back to the student organization. Cards may be purchased in denominations of $5-$100. If you would like to purchase a gift card, please stop by Meghan Wander’s desk prior to May 22nd. 
  • Dr. Mark Schmeler participated in a roundtable discussion on May 13th with Congressman Lamb to discuss issues impacting medical supply companies.  Trib article here: link

Publications & other accolades:  (send info on accepted publications, abstracts, grants, etc.!)

  • Congratulations to newly promoted RST Faculty Tricia Karg (to Associate Professor), Mary Goldberg (to Associate Professor), and Alicia Koontz (to Full Professor)!
  • Congratulations to Brianna Perry, Kevin Quinn, and Dr. Goeran Fiedler who’s project titled the Effects of Vibration Therapy on Volume Management has advanced to the next phase of the PInCh competition.  Best of luck on getting through the next round!
  • Congratulations to Jon Duvall, Ben Gebrosky, Rory Cooper and Jon Pearlman for having their patent titled Active Stability Devices & Systems for Mobile Devices granted on May 14th.  link

Funding Announcements: 

  • NIDILRR grant info can be found here link
  • CDMRP announced it Orthotics and Prosthetics grants for 2019.  link
  • CDMRP announced it SCI grants for 2019.  LOI/Pre-submissions are due May 29th: link
  • CDMRP posted webinars about their grant program.  Info here: link

Other announcements

  • RST has a job opening for a Clinical & Research Coordinator who will support services at the CAT and also work with ISWP: link
  • The AT Makers’ Fair has released a call for presenters.  The event is on Sept. 24th/25th.  link(Save the date attached)
  • Use the Clinical and Translational Science Institute’s (CTSI) researcher database to identify collaborators.  Fill out the form here: link

RST is on social media and is actively increasing outreach:

Please like/follow us:

Facebook:
https://www.facebook.com/PittMSPO  
https://www.facebook.com/PittMSRT/

Twitter:
https://twitter.com/PittMSRT

Share these videos of our programs:

 

05-13-2019

Events (recent and upcoming):

  • RST will have a brown bag lunch on Wednesday (15th) from 12-1 in the conference room on performance appraisals for staff & faculty.
  • The Prosthetics and Orthotics Student Organization (POSO) is selling gift cards for Texas Roadhouse as they prepare to head into their second year of classes. 10% of all funds raised will go back to the student organization. Cards may be purchased in denominations of $5-$100. If you would like to purchase a gift card, please stop by Meghan Wander’s desk prior to May 22nd.
  • RSTCE hosted its annual Deep Dive in Assistive Technology on May 10-11. The Deep Dive concludes the AT Cert Course that is a blended online and in-person course to advance AT Skills  and prepares people to sit for the RESNA ATP Exam.  The Deep Dive was attended by 20 people from all over the country and Israel.  Thanks to everyone in RST who assisted. 

Publications & other accolades:  (send info on accepted publications, abstracts, grants, etc.!)

  • Mark Schmeler was part of a podcast related to his outcome measures (FMA): link
  • Congratulations to Sara Munera, Jon Pearlman, Mike Boninger and Lynn Worobey who’s paper titled “Development and efficacy of an online wheelchair maintenance training program for wheelchair personnel” was accepted for publication in the AT Journal

Funding Announcements: 

  • NIDILRR grant info can be found here link
  • CDMRP announced it Orthotics and Prosthetics grants for 2019.  link
  • CDMRP announced it SCI grants for 2019.  LOI/Pre-submissions are due May 29th: link
  • CDMRP posted webinars about their grant program.  Info here: link

Other announcements

  • RST has a job opening for a Clinical & Research Coordinator who will support services at the CAT and also work with ISWP: link
  • The AT Makers’ Fair has released a call for presenters.  The event is on Sept. 24th/25th.  link(Save the date attached)
  • Use the Clinical and Translational Science Institute’s (CTSI) researcher database to identify collaborators.  Fill out the form here: link
  • Open enrollment dates related to Pitt healthcare are from April 24th-May15th. link
  • The call for abstracts for the 36th Annual International Seating Symposium, scheduled for March 3rd-6th in Vancouver, BC is open.  Abstracts are due May 14th info here: link

RST is on social media and is actively increasing outreach:

Please like/follow us:

Facebook:
https://www.facebook.com/PittMSPO  
https://www.facebook.com/PittMSRT/

Twitter:
https://twitter.com/PittMSRT

Share these videos of our programs:

 

05-06-2019

Events (recent and upcoming) :

  • We were very sad to learn of the passing of Brad Ramage on April 29th.  Brad was a friend, colleague and long-time supporter of RST and will be dearly missed.  His obituary is here, and his family has asked that any donations be made in his name to the Pittsburgh Steelwheelers’ (https://www.steelwheelers.com/)
  • Lori Rosenberg from the Hebrew University of Jerusalem will be visiting RST this Thursday, May 9th.  Lori will be presenting her research on Therapeutic Summer Camps to Teach Powered Mobility’ at 10:30 am U.S. EST on Thursday, May 9th at the Design Studio
  • Anthony Yang, Stephanie Vasquez, And Mark Schmeler attended the National Complex Rehabilitation Technology Leadership & Advocacy Conference in Washington, DC.  They met with several Pennsylvania members and their staff including Congressman Michael Doyle, Congressman Dan Meuser, Congressman Connor Lam, Sen. Bob Casey, and Sen. Pat Toomey to discuss the need for a separate benefit category bill for Complex Rehabilitation Technology that includes high-end custom fitted manual and power wheelchairs. This type of bill would move CRT into its own coverage and payment category similar to Prosthetics and Orthotics. RST was a Platinum sponsor of the conference that funded people with disabilities who use CRT to attend and participate in Capitol Hill visits. (info here: link)
  • RST Staff, Faculty, & students participated in the Pittsburgh Marathon last week to support the Handcycle Division.  Here is a nice article (link) and pictures (link).  Thanks to the following volunteers: Kate Carbonier, Alexis Emad, Cecelia Lee-Hauser, Vince Schiappa, Rob McDonough, Joe Straatmann, Mendel Marcus, Rosi Cooper and Dan Fisher
  • The P&O space renovation update: Construction is ongoing in the office and ‘old’ classroom space.  The major work is expected to be completed by the end of this week
  • The AT Makers’ Fair has released a call for presenters.  The event is on Sept. 24th/25th.  link (Save the date attached)

    • Publications & other accolades:  (send info on accepted publications, abstracts, grants, etc.!)

    • A WHO publication on Wheelchair Provision in Tajikistan that the ISWP team contributed to is now published: link
    • The NIDILRR Impact grant was highlighted on the UPMC Blog: link

    Funding Announcements: 

    • Innovation Institute is recruiting teams into their First-Gear program that supports product innovation ideas with a $3k grant. More info here link
    • NIDILRR grant info can be found here link
    • CDMRP announced it Orthotics and Prosthetics grants for 2019.  link
    • CDMRP announced it SCI grants for 2019.  LOI/Pre-submissions are due May 29th: link
    • CDMRP posted webinars about their grant program.  Info here: link

    Other announcements

    • Check out the promo video about ISS: link
    • Craig Hospital is recruiting an Executive Director: link
    • The City of Pittsburgh is recruiting an ADA Coordinator.  link
    • Open enrollment dates related to Pitt healthcare are from April 24th-May15th. link
    • Grade Rosters: will be available April 22nd, and are Due May 1st. 
    • The call for abstracts for the 36th Annual International Seating Symposium, scheduled for March 3rd-6th in Vancouver, BC is open.  Abstracts are due May 14th info here: link
    • Updated information about the efforts for unionization can be found here: link

    RST is on social media and is actively increasing outreach:

    Please like/follow us:

    Facebook:
    https://www.facebook.com/PittMSPO  
    https://www.facebook.com/PittMSRT/

    Twitter:
    https://twitter.com/PittMSRT

    Share these videos of our programs:

     

    04-29-2019

    Events (recent and upcoming) :

    • The P&O space renovation update: Construction is ongoing in the office and ‘old’ classroom space.  Work is expected to be completed in May
    • RST will have a Cinco De Mayo Day celebration this Friday, May 3rd, from 1-2 in the RST conference room.  Food will be provided.  Please RSVP here so we can make sure there is enough for everyone: link
    • The AT Makers’ Fair has released a call for presenters.  The event is on Sept. 24th/25th.  link

    Publications & other accolades:  (send info on accepted publications, abstracts, grants, etc.!)

    • Congratulations to all of the graduates, and thanks to all of the volunteers to helped with commencement.  There are tons of pictures and videos on the SHRS facebook page: link
    • Congrats to Joe Ott, who passed his comprehensive exams!
    • Congrats to Dr. Brienza & Colleagues for their publication: Association of a functional polymorphism in the CHRFAM7A gene with inflammatory response mediators and neuropathic pain after spinal cord injury. Journal of neurotrauma. 2019 Mar 29(ja). link
    • Congrats to the P&O Program for being highlighted on WESA: link

    Funding Announcements: 

    • CDMRP announced it Orthotics and Prosthetics grants for 2019.  link
    • CDMRP announced it SCI grants for 2019.  LOI/Pre-submissions are due May 29th: link
    • CDMRP posted webinars about their grant program.  Info here: link
    • The Pitt Innovation Challenges (Pinch) are due April 24th (link) and have a funding level over 100k.
    • The Craig Neilsen Foundation announced its SCI Research on the Translational Spectrum (SCRITS) grant.  Awards range from 150K-600K.  LOIs are due May 6th.  More info here: link
    • The MIT/Lemelson prize for Grad students is available this month (April) and has awards of 15K. link

    Other announcements

    • Check out the promo video about ISS: link
    • Craig Hospital is recruiting an Executive Director: link
    • The City of Pittsburgh is recruiting an ADA Coordinator.  link
    • Open enrollment dates related to Pitt healthcare are from April 24th-May15th. link
    • Grade Rosters: will be available April 22nd, and are Due May 1st. 
    • The call for abstracts for the 36th Annual International Seating Symposium, scheduled for March 3rd-6th in Vancouver, BC is open.  Abstracts are due May 14th info here: link
    • Updated information about the efforts for unionization can be found here: link

    RST is on social media and is actively increasing outreach:

    Please like/follow us:

    Facebook:
    https://www.facebook.com/PittMSPO  
    https://www.facebook.com/PittMSRT/

    Twitter:
    https://twitter.com/PittMSRT

    Share these videos of our programs:

     

    04-22-2019

    Events (recent and upcoming) :

    • The P&O space renovation update.
    • Construction is ongoing in the office and ‘old’ classroom space.  Work is expected to be completed in May
    • The events planning committee started a monthly birthday party which will be held on the last Wednesday of the month (that’s this Wednesday).  Cake will be served, and the only requirement is that you contribute $1 to help buy the cake.  For this month’s party, please contribute the $1 by tomorrow (23rd) at noon to Dr. Dave Brienza.  Flyer attached
    • The Bakery Square Pub Night will be held Friday (4/26)  from 4 - 7 PM in the empty space next to Jimmy Johns.  It will include trivia, drinks and food.  All are welcome

      • Publications & other accolades:  (send info on accepted publications, abstracts, grants, etc.!)

      • Congratulations to Tricia Karg, who was appointed to the Graduate Faculty!
      • Congratulations to Dr. Goeran Fiedler who was awarded SAGE Elite Reviewer Award for 2019 by the Editors-in-Chief of Prosthetics & Orthotics International (POI)
      • Congratulations to PhD Candidate Alex Miles for being inducted into the 40-under-40 class at her alma mater, Winston-Salem State University.  Pictures: link 

      Funding Announcements: 

      • CDMRP announced it SCI grants for 2019.  LOI/Pre-submissions are due May 29th: link
      • CDMRP is hosting webinars about their grant program.  Info here: link
      • The Pitt Innovation Challenges (Pinch) are due April 24th (link) and have a funding level over 100k.
      • The Craig Neilsen Foundation announced its SCI Research on the Translational Spectrum (SCRITS) grant.  Awards range from 150K-600K.  LOIs are due May 6th.  More info here: link
      • The MIT/Lemelson prize for Grad students is available this month (April) and has awards of 15K.  link

      Other announcements

      • The City of Pittsburgh is recruiting an ADA Coordinator.  link
      • Open enrollment dates related to Pitt healthcare are from April 24th-May15th. link
      • Grade Rosters: will be available April 22nd, and are Due May 1st. 
      • The call for abstracts for the 36th Annual International Seating Symposium, scheduled for March 3rd-6th in Vancouver, BC is open.  Abstracts are due May 14th info here: link
      • Updated information about the efforts for unionization can be found here: link

      RST is on social media and is actively increasing outreach:

      Please like/follow us:

      Facebook:
      https://www.facebook.com/PittMSPO  
      https://www.facebook.com/PittMSRT/

      Twitter:
      https://twitter.com/PittMSRT

      Share these videos of our programs:

       

      04-15-2019

      Events (recent and upcoming) :

      • The P&O space renovation update.
          • The new classroom construction is complete and the classroom will be used starting next week.
          • Construction will move into the office and ‘old’ classroom space.  That could begin as soon as next week.
      • Thanks to all who attended the Brubaker Lecture and AT Appreciation Event. 
      • Mark your calendars: Rehab Engineering Design (2718) students will present their projects atCLASS - Community Living And Support Services on 22nd Monday from 1-2.15pm in Conference Room A.

      Publications & other accolades:  (send info on accepted publications, abstracts, grants, etc.!)

      • Congratulations to Mark Schmeler, Richard Schein, Andi Saptono, Vince Schiappa who published Development & Implementation of a Wheelchair Outcomes Registry, in Archives of Physical Medicine and Rehab.  Lin
      • Congratulations to Tricia Karg, Dave Brienza, and Andrew Malkiewicz who’s patents claims were approved for the patent titled Actively and Selectively Cooled Cushioning Surface link
      • Congratulations to Joe Ott, who received one of the four Honorable Mentions from RESNA Student Paper Competition for his paper titled Preliminary Results of Wheel Rolling Resistance using a Drum-based testing Machine. 

      Funding Announcements: 

      • CDMRP is hosting webinars about their grant program.  Info here: link
      • The Pitt Innovation Challenges (Pinch) are due April 24th (link) and have a funding level over 100k.
      • The Craig Neilsen Foundation announced its SCI Research on the Translational Spectrum (SCRITS) grant.  Awards range from 150K-600K.  LOIs are due May 6th.  More info here: link
      • The MIT/Lemelson prize for Grad students is available this month (April) and has awards of 15K.  link

      Other announcements

      • Grade Rosters: will be available April 22nd, and are Due May 1st. 
      • The call for abstracts for the 36th Annual International Seating Symposium, scheduled for March 3rd-6th in Vancouver, BC is open.  Abstracts are due May 14th info here: link
      • Updated information about the efforts for unionization can be found here: link

      RST is on social media and is actively increasing outreach:

      Please like/follow us:

      Facebook:
      https://www.facebook.com/PittMSPO  
      https://www.facebook.com/PittMSRT/

      Twitter:
      https://twitter.com/PittMSRT

      Share these videos of our programs:

       

      04-09-2019

      Events (recent and upcoming) :

      • The P&O space renovation update.
        • The new classroom construction is complete and they are just adding final touches.  Furniture arrives Wednesday.
        • Construction will move into the office and ‘old’ classroom space.  That could begin as soon as next weekThe Brubaker Lecture is scheduled for next Friday, April 12th. 
      • UPMC produced the following video about ISS: https://inside.upmc.com/now-episode-12/
      • The OT department is having an open house in their new space at Bridgeside Point on April 24th, from 3:30-6:30.  Register here: link

      Publications & other accolades:  (send info on accepted publications, abstracts, grants, etc.!)

      • Congratulations to the P&O program to being one of only four SHRS programs to achieve to 100% faculty and staff participation on the Pitt Day of Giving.  They will receive free breakfast from the Dean’s office.

      Funding Announcements: 

      • CDMRP is hosting webinars about their grant program.  Info here: link
      • The Pitt Innovation Challenges (Pinch) are due April 24th (link) and have a funding level over 100k.
      • The Rehab Institute Pilot Grant (30k) LOIs are due April 10th.
      • The Craig Neilsen Foundation announced its SCI Research on the Translational Spectrum (SCRITS) grant.  Awards range from 150K-600K.  LOIs are due May 6th.  More info here: link

      Other announcements

      • Grade Rosters: will be available April 22nd, and are Due May 1st. 
      • The call for abstracts for the 36th Annual International Seating Symposium, scheduled for March 3rd-6th in Vancouver, BC is open.  Abstracts are due May 14th info here: link
      • Updated information about the efforts for unionization can be found here: link

        • RST is on social media and is actively increasing outreach:

        Please like/follow us:

        Facebook:
        https://www.facebook.com/PittMSPO  
        https://www.facebook.com/PittMSRT/

        Twitter:
        https://twitter.com/PittMSRT

        Share these videos of our programs:

         

        04-02-2019

        Events (recent and upcoming) :

        • P&O students Yona Cloonan & Farzana Zafara led an outreach event at Dilworth, a local public elementary on March 29th to present to the Society of Inventors class. They introduced the field of orthotics & prosthetics to the kids by showing various orthotic and prosthetic devices, and the kids had a chance to be an 'orthotist' and 'patient' during a thumb-casting activity.
        • The P&O space is being expanded and renovated.  The new classroom should be completed this week, and work will continue until early May. 
        • The Brubaker Lecture is scheduled for next Friday, April 12th.  Details attached.

        Publications & other accolades:  (send info on accepted publications, abstracts, grants, etc.!)

        • Congratulations to Tricia Karg & Dr. Dave Brienza and co-authors for their publication: Sacral skin blood flow response to alternative pressure operating room overly, Journal of Tissue Viability.  Link

        Funding Announcements: 

        • CDMRP is hosting webinars about their grant program.  Info here: link
        • The Pitt Innovation Challenges are due April 24th (link) and have a funding level over 100k.
        • The Rehab Institute Pilot Grant (30k) LOIs are due April 10th.
        • The Craig Neilsen Foundation announced its SCI Research on the Translational Spectrum (SCRITS) grant.  Awards range from 150K-600K.  LOIs are due May 6th.  More info here: link

        Other announcements

        • The call for abstracts for the 36th Annual International Seating Symposium, scheduled for March 3rd-6th in Vancouver, BC is open.  Abstracts are due May 14th info here: link
        • Promotion & Tenure workshop is scheduled for April 2nd (register here: link)
        • Updated information about the efforts for unionization can be found here: link
        • WHO is calling for contributions to their Global AT Summit.  This can be submitted until April 10th.  More info here: link

        RST is on social media and is actively increasing outreach:

        Please like/follow us:

        Facebook:
        https://www.facebook.com/PittMSPO  
        https://www.facebook.com/PittMSRT/

        Twitter:
        https://twitter.com/PittMSRT

        Share these videos of our programs:

         

        03-25-2019

        Events (recent and upcoming) :

        • Congrats to the RSTCE team and all volunteers for hosting the 35th Anniversary International Seating Symposium from March 18th – 22nd. It was a great success.  Here is a U-times article: link 
        • RST PhD Students Akhila Veerubhotla & Deepan Karmaraj participated in the Three Minute Thesis Competition on March 21st.
        • The P&O space is being expanded and renovated.  Work started this week will continue until early May. 
        • Anthony Yang will defend his MS Thesis on “Impact of Assistive Technology Professional Involvement in the Provision of Mobility Assistive Equipment”, March 27, 2019, 1:00 pm in the CE studio

        Publications & other accolades:  (send info on accepted publications, abstracts, grants, etc.!)

        • Congratulations to Akhila Veerubhotla for taking 1st place in the Three Minute Thesis Competition.  She will represent SHRS in the university competition in April!
        • Congratulations to Deepan Karmaraj and the Power Drive team for placing second in the Randall Family Big Idea Competition link

        Funding Announcements: 

        • The Pitt Innovation Challenges are due April 24th (link) and have a funding level over 100k.
        • The Rehab Institute Pilot Grant (30k) LOIs are due April 10th.
        • The Craig Neilsen Foundation announced its SCI Research on the Translational Spectrum (SCRITS) grant.  Awards range from 150K-600K.  LOIs are due May 6th.  More info here: link

        Other announcements

        • MSPO student Jessica Thomas is recruiting people to provide feedback on 3D Printing in P&O.  Flyer attached and link to survey here: link
        • RESNA Student design competition submissions are due by March 15th.  More info here: link
        • Updated information about the efforts for unionization can be found here: link
        • The Disabled Air Rifle Clinic and Competition will be held on  March 16th & 17th.  Email Chad Evans (chad.evans2@va.gov) for more info 
        • WHO is calling for contributions to their Global AT Summit.  This can be submitted anytime in march.  More info here: link
        • Pitt’s Transportation Forum is schedule for March 20th from 9-3 at no cost.  RST has presented work in the past and will be presenting this year.  Register here: link
        • Pitt will be hosting a community engaged scholarship forum on March 29th from 8:30-5pm to help guide Pitt’s strategic planning initiatives related to community engagement.  More info here: link

        RST is on social media and is actively increasing outreach:

        Please like/follow us:

        Facebook:
        https://www.facebook.com/PittMSPO  
        https://www.facebook.com/PittMSRT/

        Twitter:
        https://twitter.com/PittMSRT

        Share these videos of our programs:

         

        03-11-2019

        Events (recent and upcoming) :

        • The P&O space is being expanded and renovated.  Work started this week will continue until early May.  
        • RSTCE is hosting the 35th Anniversary International Seating Symposium from March 18th – 22nd in Pittsburgh.  More info here: link  
        • PhD Students will be participating in the Three Minute Thesis Competition on March 21st, 3:30-5pm in 4060FTOW info here: link

        Publications & other accolades:  (send info on accepted publications, abstracts, grants, etc.!)

        • Congratulations to Drs. Goldberg, Pearlman, Rushton, Toro; Taavy Miller and Nicky Seymour for having their publication titled Integration of Wheelchair Service Provision Education: Current Situation, Facilitators and Barriers for Academic Rehabilitation Programs Worldwide accepted for publication in Disability & Rehabilitation: Assistive Technology

        Funding Announcements: 

        • The 2019 Coulter Grant Program is open. LOI deadline is March 15th.  More info here: link 
        • The Rehab Institute Pilot Grant (30k) LOIs are due April 10th.  Info is attached.
        • The Craig Neilsen Foundation announced its SCI Research on the Translational Spectrum (SCRITS) grant.  Awards range from 150K-600K.  LOIs are due May 6th.  More info here: link

        Other announcements

        • Promotion & Tenure workshop is scheduled for April 2nd (register here: link)
        • Updated information about the efforts for unionization can be found here: link
        • WHO is calling for contributions to their Global AT Summit.  This can be submitted anytime in march.  More info here: link
        • Pitt will be hosting a community engaged scholarship forum on March 29th from 8:30-5pm to help guide Pitt’s strategic planning initiatives related to community engagement.  More info here: link
        • Faculty & Staff should all be using the updated/approved letterhead and ppt templates.  They can be found here: lin

        RST is on social media and is actively increasing outreach:

        Please like/follow us:

        Facebook:
        https://www.facebook.com/PittMSPO  
        https://www.facebook.com/PittMSRT/

        Twitter:
        https://twitter.com/PittMSRT

        Share these videos of our programs:

         

        02-25-2019

        Events (recent and upcoming) :

        • Day of Giving is this Thursday, Feb 28th.  SHRS Specific Link: link

            • There are two challenges for us to be aware of:
              • The Dean’s challenge, with the award of $2,000, is for the program/department with the highest % of staff, faculty, and alumni giving.
              • Staff/Faculty Participation challenge, with the award of a free breakfast, is for any program with 100% staff and faculty participation.

          Important FAQs: 

          1. Yes, you can give early (like right now).  Here is the link again: link
          2. Yes, you can see the list of people who have already given, and yes, the person you sit next to already gave $ (but no pressure)    

        • On Wednesday, February 20 RST Staff Karl Kemmerer, post-Doc Sandra Guzman, & Graduate Students Vince Schiappa, Keerthana Kalliat, & Mitch Bell volunteered as judges at the neighboring Sacred Heart Elementary School Science Fair.  Over 100 6th, 7th, and 8th graders presented their projects. 
        • The P&O space is being expanded and renovated.  Work started this week will continue until late April. 
        • RSTCE is hosting the 35th Anniversary International Seating Symposium from March 18th – 22nd in Pittsburgh.  More info here: link
        • 12 MSPO students planning to attend the National AAOP Academy meeting March 6-9th
          • 2 students will be presenting posters at the meeting. 


        Publications & other accolades:  (send info on accepted publications, abstracts, grants, etc.!)

        Funding Announcements: 

        • CDMRP is offering a webinar about their high risk/high reward grant programs on Feb 28th.  Info here: link
        • The 2019 Coulter Grant Program is open. LOI deadline is March 15th.  More info here: link 
        • The Craig Neilsen Foundation announced its SCI Research on the Translational Spectrum (SCRITS) grant.  Awards range from 150K-600K.  LOIs are due May 6th.  More info here: link

        Other announcements

        • Applications for CTSI’s Career Education and Enhancement for Health Care Research Diversity (CEED) Program are due on Feb 28thlink
        • The Disabled Air Rifle Clinic and Competition will be held on  March 16th & 17th.  Email Chad Evans (chad.evans2@va.gov) for more info 
        • The SDA meeting is March 5th.  SDA also has a extensive listing of events on their newsletter (email attached).  I would encourage you all to sign up to receive it. 
        • WHO is calling for contributions to their Global AT Summit.  This can be submitted anytime in march.  More info here: link
        • Pitt’s Transportation Forum is schedule for March 20th from 9-3 at no cost.  RST has presented work in the past and will be presenting this year.  Register here: link
        • Pitt will be hosting a community engaged scholarship forum on March 29th from 8:30-5pm to help guide Pitt’s strategic planning initiatives related to community engagement.  More info here: link

        RST is on social media and is actively increasing outreach:

        Please like/follow us:

        Facebook:
        https://www.facebook.com/PittMSPO  
        https://www.facebook.com/PittMSRT/

        Twitter:
        https://twitter.com/PittMSRT

        Share these videos of our programs:

         

        03-11-2019

        Events (recent and upcoming) :

        • The P&O space is being expanded and renovated.  Work started this week will continue until early May.  
        • RSTCE is hosting the 35th Anniversary International Seating Symposium from March 18th – 22nd in Pittsburgh.  More info here: link  
        • PhD Students will be participating in the Three Minute Thesis Competition on March 21st, 3:30-5pm in 4060FTOW info here: link

        Publications & other accolades:  (send info on accepted publications, abstracts, grants, etc.!)

        • Congratulations to Drs. Goldberg, Pearlman, Rushton, Toro; Taavy Miller and Nicky Seymour for having their publication titled Integration of Wheelchair Service Provision Education: Current Situation, Facilitators and Barriers for Academic Rehabilitation Programs Worldwide accepted for publication in Disability & Rehabilitation: Assistive Technology

        Funding Announcements: 

        • The 2019 Coulter Grant Program is open. LOI deadline is March 15th.  More info here: link 
        • The Rehab Institute Pilot Grant (30k) LOIs are due April 10th.  Info is attached.
        • The Craig Neilsen Foundation announced its SCI Research on the Translational Spectrum (SCRITS) grant.  Awards range from 150K-600K.  LOIs are due May 6th.  More info here: link

        Other announcements

        • MSPO student Jessica Thomas is recruiting people to provide feedback on 3D Printing in P&O.  Flyer attached and link to survey here: link
        • RESNA Student design competition submissions are due by March 15th.  More info here: link
        • Updated information about the efforts for unionization can be found here: link
        • The Disabled Air Rifle Clinic and Competition will be held on  March 16th & 17th.  Email Chad Evans (chad.evans2@va.gov) for more info 
        • WHO is calling for contributions to their Global AT Summit.  This can be submitted anytime in march.  More info here: link
        • Pitt’s Transportation Forum is schedule for March 20th from 9-3 at no cost.  RST has presented work in the past and will be presenting this year.  Register here: link
        • Pitt will be hosting a community engaged scholarship forum on March 29th from 8:30-5pm to help guide Pitt’s strategic planning initiatives related to community engagement.  More info here: link

        RST is on social media and is actively increasing outreach:

        Please like/follow us:

        Facebook:
        https://www.facebook.com/PittMSPO  
        https://www.facebook.com/PittMSRT/

        Twitter:
        https://twitter.com/PittMSRT

        Share these videos of our programs:

         

        02-25-2019

        Events (recent and upcoming) :

        • Day of Giving is this Thursday, Feb 28th.  SHRS Specific Link: link

            • There are two challenges for us to be aware of:
              • The Dean’s challenge, with the award of $2,000, is for the program/department with the highest % of staff, faculty, and alumni giving.
              • Staff/Faculty Participation challenge, with the award of a free breakfast, is for any program with 100% staff and faculty participation.

          Important FAQs: 

          1. Yes, you can give early (like right now).  Here is the link again: link
          2. Yes, you can see the list of people who have already given, and yes, the person you sit next to already gave $ (but no pressure)    

        • On Wednesday, February 20 RST Staff Karl Kemmerer, post-Doc Sandra Guzman, & Graduate Students Vince Schiappa, Keerthana Kalliat, & Mitch Bell volunteered as judges at the neighboring Sacred Heart Elementary School Science Fair.  Over 100 6th, 7th, and 8th graders presented their projects. 
        • The P&O space is being expanded and renovated.  Work started this week will continue until late April. 
        • RSTCE is hosting the 35th Anniversary International Seating Symposium from March 18th – 22nd in Pittsburgh.  More info here: link
        • 12 MSPO students planning to attend the National AAOP Academy meeting March 6-9th
          • 2 students will be presenting posters at the meeting. 


        Publications & other accolades:  (send info on accepted publications, abstracts, grants, etc.!)

        Funding Announcements: 

        • CDMRP is offering a webinar about their high risk/high reward grant programs on Feb 28th.  Info here: link
        • The 2019 Coulter Grant Program is open. LOI deadline is March 15th.  More info here: link 
        • The Craig Neilsen Foundation announced its SCI Research on the Translational Spectrum (SCRITS) grant.  Awards range from 150K-600K.  LOIs are due May 6th.  More info here: link

        Other announcements

        • Applications for CTSI’s Career Education and Enhancement for Health Care Research Diversity (CEED) Program are due on Feb 28thlink
        • The Disabled Air Rifle Clinic and Competition will be held on  March 16th & 17th.  Email Chad Evans (chad.evans2@va.gov) for more info 
        • The SDA meeting is March 5th.  SDA also has a extensive listing of events on their newsletter (email attached).  I would encourage you all to sign up to receive it. 
        • WHO is calling for contributions to their Global AT Summit.  This can be submitted anytime in march.  More info here: link
        • Pitt’s Transportation Forum is schedule for March 20th from 9-3 at no cost.  RST has presented work in the past and will be presenting this year.  Register here: link
        • Pitt will be hosting a community engaged scholarship forum on March 29th from 8:30-5pm to help guide Pitt’s strategic planning initiatives related to community engagement.  More info here: link

        RST is on social media and is actively increasing outreach:

        Please like/follow us:

        Facebook:
        https://www.facebook.com/PittMSPO  
        https://www.facebook.com/PittMSRT/

        Twitter:
        https://twitter.com/PittMSRT

        Share these videos of our programs:

         

        02-18-2019

        Events (recent and upcoming) :

        • The P&O space is being expanded and renovated.  Work is expected to start in Suite 402 (where Kim, Tyler and I sit) sometime this week and continue for 8 weeks.  There will be noise, equipment and debris/materials moving through the hallway fyi.
          RSTCE is hosting the 35th Anniversary International Seating Symposium from March 18th – 22nd in Pittsburgh.  More info here:  link
        • We were very sorry to learn of the passing of Richard Meritzer, who was City of Pittsburgh’s ADA coordinator for many years.  Richard was a friend and colleague of several of us and a continuous advocate for people with Disabilities.  More information is here: link
        • SHRS just established a contract with a distance education partner (information attached).  This launches a multi-year effort for SHRS programs to offer distance ed options for degree granting programs. 
        •  On February 7, the RSTCE team hosted a meeting with Rifton Products and VGM/US Rehab to discuss outcome measures, product testing, and the possibility of a new ANSI/RESNA standard for gait trainers.
        • Day of Giving is Feb 28th.  There are two challenges for us to be aware of:
          • The Dean’s challenge, with the award of $2,000, is for the program/department with the highest % of staff, faculty, and alumni giving.
          • Staff/Faculty Participation challenge, with the award of a free breakfast, is for any program with 100% staff and faculty participation.


        Publications & other accolades:  (send info on accepted publications, abstracts, grants, etc.!)

        Funding Announcements: 

        • The 2019 Coulter Grant Program is open. LOI deadline is March 15th.  More info here: link
        • The VA recently opened a grant opportunity for technology for Specially Adapted Housing Assistive Technology.  Deadline for the 200k grant is March 3rd.  More info here link and here link
        • UCSUR is offering 10k for their Faculty Development Awards on research in the social/behavioral/policy sciences.  More info here: link

        Other announcements

        • Applications for CTSI’s Career Education and Enhancement for Health Care Research Diversity (CEED) Program are due on Feb 28thlink
        • Former OT & PT students will lead a panel to discuss opening a private practice on Feb 21st, from 3-5. Register here: link
        • The Disabled Air Rifle Clinic and Competition will be held on  March 16th & 17th.  Email Chad Evans (chad.evans2@va.gov) for more info 
        • The DOT has an opening for a researcher in automation in accessible transportation.  The applications close Feb 15th. Info here: link

        RST is on social media and is actively increasing outreach:

        Please like/follow us:

        Facebook:
        https://www.facebook.com/PittMSPO  
        https://www.facebook.com/PittMSRT/

        Twitter:
        https://twitter.com/PittMSRT

        Share these videos of our programs:

         

        02-12-2019

        Events (recent and upcoming) :

        • The P&O space is being expanded and renovated.  Work is expected to start in Suite 402 (where Kim, Tyler and I sit) sometime this week and continue for 8 weeks.  There will be noise, equipment and debris/materials moving through the hallway fyi.
        • RSTCE is hosting the 35th Anniversary International Seating Symposium from March 18th – 22nd in Pittsburgh.  More info here: link

         Publications & other accolades:  (send info on accepted publications, abstracts, grants, etc.!).

        • Congratulations to RST Post-Doc Anand Mhatre and co-authors for their paper which is now in print: Development, reliability, and piloting of a wheelchair caster failure inspection tool (C-FIT) 
        • Congratulations to RST Faculty Dr. Goeran Fiedler for joining the Editorial Board of the Journal of Prosthetics & Orthotics.
        • Congratulations to RST Faculty Dr. Goeran Fiedler and co-authors for having their paper titled “Comparison of lower limb segment forces during running on artificial turf and natural grass” accepted into Journal of Rehabilitation and Assistive Technologies Engineering (RATE)

        Funding Announcements: 

        • CTSI is sponsoring a PAIN research challenge.  Funds up to 50k will be awarded.  Deadline is Feb 18th link
        • The 2019 Coulter Grant Program is open. LOI deadline is March 15th.  More info here: link
        • The VA recently opened a grant opportunity for technology for Specially Adapted Housing Assistive Technology.  Deadline for the 200k grant is March 3rd.  More info here link and here link
        • UCSUR is offering 10k for their Faculty Development Awards on research in the social/behavioral/policy sciences.  More info here: link

        Other announcements:

        • Day of Giving (Feb 28th) info
          • School-level and department-level competitions for funding include 2k for highest level of participation, and a bagel breakfast if 100% of staff and faculty participate.    
          Applications for CTSI’s Career Education and Enhancement for Health Care Research Diversity (CEED) Program are due on Feb 28thlink
        • Former OT & PT students will lead a panel to discuss opening a private practice on Feb 21st, from 3-5. Register here: link
        • The Disabled Air Rifle Clinic and Competition will be held on  March 16th & 17th.  Email Chad Evans (chad.evans2@va.gov) for more info 
        • The DOT has an opening for a researcher in automation in accessible transportation.  The applications close Feb 15th. Info here: link
        • The HHS office of Disability, Aging, and Long-Term Care Policy (DALTCP) has policy-related job openings.  See attached pdf for more information.

         

        RST is on social media and is actively increasing outreach:

        Please like/follow us:

        Facebook:
        https://www.facebook.com/PittMSPO  
        https://www.facebook.com/PittMSRT/

        Twitter:
        https://twitter.com/PittMSRT

        Share these videos of our programs:

         

        02-04-2019

        Events (recent and upcoming) :

        • Congrats to Rich & Michelle Schein who had their second baby in late January.  Welcome Lilly! 
        • The P&O space is being expanded and renovated.  Work will start in Suite 402 (where Kim, Tyler and I sit) on Feb 4th and continue for 8 weeks.  There will be noise, equipment and debris/materials moving through the hallway fyi.
        • RSTCE is hosting the 35th Anniversary International Seating Symposium from March 18th – 22nd in Pittsburgh.  More info here: link

         

        Publications & other accolades:  (send info on accepted publications, abstracts, grants, etc.!).

        Funding Announcements: 

        • CTSI is sponsoring a PAIN research challenge.  Funds up to 50k will be awarded.  Deadline is Feb 18th link
        • The 2019 Coulter Grant Program is open. LOI deadline is March 15th.  More info here: link
        • The VA recently opened a grant opportunity for technology for Specially Adapted Housing Assistive Technology.  Deadline for the 200k grant is March 3rd.  More info here link and here link
        • UCSUR is offering 10k for their Faculty Development Awards on research in the social/behavioral/policy sciences.  More info here: link

         

        Other announcements:

        • Day of Giving (Feb 28th) info
          • School-level and department-level competitions for funding include 2k for highest level of participation, and a bagel breakfast if 100% of staff and faculty participate.    
        • RST’s conference room calendars have now been consolidated (thanks Joe).  You can find them on the RST 2 website (https://www.rst2.pitt.edu/)
        • Training Events from the Innovation Institute and Law school are listed here: link
        • Training Events from the Research Conduct & Compliance Office can be found here: link
        • Training Events at the University’s Center for Teaching and Learning can be found here: link
        • Applications for CTSI’s Career Education and Enhancement for Health Care Research Diversity (CEED) Program are due on Feb 28thlink
        • Former OT & PT students will lead a panel to discuss opening a private practice on Feb 21st, from 3-5. Register here: link
        • The Disabled Air Rifle Clinic and Competition will be held on  March 16th & 17th.  See linked flyer.  Chad also needs volunteers, so email him directly if you are interested.
        • The DOT has an opening for a researcher in automation in accessible transportation.  The applications close Feb 15th. Info here: link

        RST is on social media and is actively increasing outreach:

        Please like/follow us:

        Facebook:
        https://www.facebook.com/PittMSPO  
        https://www.facebook.com/PittMSRT/

        Twitter:
        https://twitter.com/PittMSRT

        Share these videos of our programs:

         

        01-28-2019

        Events (recent and upcoming) :

        • The P&O space is being expanded and renovated.  Work will start in Suite 402 (where Kim, Tyler and I sit) on Feb 4th and continue for 8 weeks.  There will be noise, equipment and debris/materials moving through the hallway fyi.
        • RST is hosting an in-person product review from March 11th-15th for the team from Consolidating Logistics for Assistive Technology Supply & Provision (CLASP).  This is a USAID funded project that supplies large-scale purchasers with appropriate assistive technology.  See more about CLASP here: link
        • RST is hosting an ISO 7176 Working Group Meeting on March 22nd & 23rd.
        • RSTCE is hosting the 35th Anniversary International Seating Symposium from March 18th – 22nd in Pittsburgh.  More info here: link

         

        Publications & other accolades:  (send info on accepted publications, abstracts, grants, etc.!).

        • Congratulations to MSRT student & Fulbright Fellow Satria Ardianuari for having his Opinion article about AT published in the Jakarta Post: link

         

        Funding Announcements: 

        • The Coulter program, which support product innovation/commercialization, is requesting LOIs due March 15th: link
        • RWJF has several open calls for proposals: link
        • NICHD just announced a collaborative effort to revise its strategic plan.  And also other funding initiatives listed here: link
        • NIH just announced several FOAs related to their pain-management initiatives (HEAL).  Info here: link
        • NIDILRR Grant has several grant opportunities which can be found here: link
        • Pitt’s Innovation in Education Awards are due Jan 28th : link
        • CTSI is sponsoring a PAIN research challenge.  Funds up to 50k will be awarded.  Deadline is Feb 18th link

         

        Other announcements:

        • RST and other SHRS logos for faculty and staff can be found here: link
        • See attached flyer about a Feb 19th presentation on Creating a Welcoming Community for individuals with Intellectual & Developmental Disabilities. 
        • See attached flyer about the spring 19 wellness workshop schedule
        • Day of Giving (Feb 28th) info
        • School-level and department-level competitions for funding include 2k for highest level of participation, and a bagel breakfast if 100% of staff and faculty participate.    
        • RST’s conference room calendars have now been consolidated (thanks Joe).  You can find them on the RST 2 website (https://www.rst2.pitt.edu/)
        • Tyler is selling Girl scout cookies!  He has an order form at his desk in Suite 402.
        • Training Events from the Innovation Institute and Law school are listed here: link
        • Training Events from the Research Conduct & Compliance Office can be found here: link
        • Training Events at the University’s Center for Teaching and Learning can be found here: link

        RST is on social media and is actively increasing outreach:

        Please like/follow us:

        Facebook:
        https://www.facebook.com/PittMSPO  
        https://www.facebook.com/PittMSRT/

        Twitter:
        https://twitter.com/PittMSRT

         

        Share these videos of our programs:

         

        01-22-2019

        Events (recent and upcoming):

        • Dr. Jon Pearlman represented RST at NIH’s meeting on Rehabilitation & Assistive Technology in the Americas: Advancing Data & Information on Jan 15th & 16th. The meeting was hosted by NIH and led by a team from the Panamerican Health Organization (PAHO), which represents the World Health Organization in the Americas. Group photo here: link
        • RST is hosting Sarah Tress & Shannon McCoy Jan 13th-Feb1st to help them perform testing on a low-cost cushion they have been developing. Shannon & Sarah are both undergraduate students from MIT and have won several innovation awards to support the commercialization of the cushion. Info about their design is here: link
        • RST is hosting an in-person product review from March 11th-15th for the team from Consolidating Logistics for Assistive Technology Supply & Provision (CLASP). This is a USAID funded project that supplies large-scale purchasers with appropriate assistive technology. See more about CLASP here: link
        • RSTCE is hosting the 35th Anniversary International Seating Symposium from March 18th – 22nd in Pittsburgh. More info here: link

         

        Publications & other accolades:

        • Congratulations to Dr. Goeran Fiedler Dr. Goeran Fiedler and Krista Kutina for their research published: “Feasibility of a mobile feedback system for gait retraining in people with lower limb loss—A technical note ”, Journal of Rehabilitation & Assistive Technologies Engineering link: https://doi.org/10.1177/2055668318813682"
        • Congratulations (again) to Dr. Goeran Fiedler & Co-Authors for having their research accepted for publication: Vision blinding of participants in limb prosthetic research is unnecessary, Journal of Prosthetics & Orthotics, JPO14-594R1 (will send link once it is in-press).

         

        Funding Announcements:

        • RWJF has several open calls for proposals: link
        • NICHD just announced a collaborative effort to revise its strategic plan. And also other funding initiatives listed here: link
        • NIH just announced several FOAs related to their pain-management initiatives (HEAL). Info here: link
        • NIDILRR Grant has several grant opportunities which can be found here: link
        • AlphaLab Gear is accepting applications for their start-up accelerator until Jan 27th.  Previous student teams have been awarded funds to help commercialize their ideas.  More info here: link.  Deadline is Jan 27th.
        • Pitt’s Innovation in Education Awards are due Jan 28th : link
        • CTSI is sponsoring a PAIN research challenge.  Funds up to 50k will be awarded.  Deadline is Feb 18th link
        • ISPO’s world congress travel grant applications are here: link

         

        Other announcements:

        • See attached flyer about a Feb 19th presentation on Creating a Welcoming Community for individuals with Intellectual & Developmental Disabilities.
        • See attached flyer about the spring 19 wellness workshop schedule
        • Day of Giving (Feb 28th) info
          • School-level and department-level competitions for funding include 2k for highest level of participation, and a bagel breakfast if 100% of staff and faculty participate.
        • RST’s conference room calendars have now been consolidated (thanks Joe).  You can find them on the RST 2 website https://rst2.pitt.edu/RST_MainRoomCal.html
        • Tyler is selling Girl scout cookies!  He has an order form at his desk in Suite 402.
        • Pitt’s Assessment & Teaching Conference is on Jan 25th and will have several lectures on innovative teaching approaches (including online/hybrid).  Info here: link
        • There is a charity event related to the Opioid crisis at PPG Aquarium on Jan 26th.  More info here: link
        • Training Events from the Innovation Institute and Law school are listed here: link
        • Training Events from the Research Conduct & Compliance Office can be found here: link
        • Training Events at the University’s Center for Teaching and Learning can be found here: link

         

        RST is on social media and is actively increasing outreach:

        Please like/follow us:

        Facebook:
        https://www.facebook.com/PittMSPO  
        https://www.facebook.com/PittMSRT/

        Twitter:
        https://twitter.com/PittMSRT

         

        Share these videos of our programs:

         

        01-14-2019

        Events (recent and upcoming):

        • If you are faculty, please complete the SHRS Excellence in Teaching Survey by 12/21: Survey 
        • See attached .doc for the P&O schedule this week.
        • Click here to see the most recent SHRS Insider: Link
        • Recent NIH funding updates are here: Llink

         

        Funding Announcements:

        • RWJF has several open calls for proposals: link
        • NICHD just announced a collaborative effort to revise its strategic plan.  And also other funding initiatives listed here: link
        • NIH just announced several FOAs related to their pain-management initiatives (HEAL).  Info here: link
        • NIDILRR Grant has several grant opportunities which can be found here: link
        • AlphaLab Gear is accepting applications for their start-up accelerator until Jan 27th.  Previous student teams have been awarded funds to help commercialize their ideas.  More info here: link.  Deadline is Jan 27th. 
        • Pitt’s Innovation in Education Awards are due Jan 28th : link
        • CTSI is sponsoring a PAIN research challenge.  Funds up to 50k will be awarded.  Deadline is Feb 18th link
        • ISPO’s world congress travel grant applications are here: link

         

        Other announcements:

        • RST’s conference room calendars have now been consolidated (thanks Joe).  You can find them on the RST 2 website https://rst2.pitt.edu/RST_MainRoomCal.html
        • Tyler is selling Girl scout cookies!  He has an order form at his desk in Suite 402.
        • Pitt’s Assessment & Teaching Conference is on Jan 25th and will have several lectures on innovative teaching approaches (including online/hybrid).  Info here: link
        • There is a charity event related to the Opioid crisis at PPG Aquarium on Jan 26th.  More info here: link
        • The next Health Sciences Diversity “Diversity in Practice” Speaker Series scheduled on Thursday, January 17th, 2019 at 12:00pm in Scaife Hall, Conference Center, room 1103. Info attached in the flyer. 
        • Training Events from the Innovation Institute and Law school are listed here: link
        • Training Events from the Research Conduct & Compliance Office can be found here: link
        • Training Events at the University’s Center for Teaching and Learning can be found here: link

           

        RST is on social media and is actively increasing outreach:

        Please like/follow us:

        Facebook:
        https://www.facebook.com/PittMSPO  
        https://www.facebook.com/PittMSRT/

        Twitter:
        https://twitter.com/PittMSRT

         

        Share these videos of our programs:

         

        01-07-2019

        Meetings:

        • Mark Schmeler, Rich Schein, and Vincent Schiappa were acknowledge at the annual Pitt Celebration of Innovation for licensing the FMA/UDS to VGM/USRehab. (Dec 3rd)
        • RST faculty and Graduate students hosted a hands-on wheelchair training lab to ~60 Pitt Physical Therapy students in the Center for Assistive Technology. (Nov 30th)
        • RST & OP Student Associations hosted an informational session on Adaptive Skiing in collaboration with Three Rivers Adaptive Sports (TRAS).  The event was attended by over 50 students from Pitt/SHRS, Duquesne and Chatham Universities as well as members of the community interested in participating in and/or volunteering at adaptive skiing events this coming season. (Nov 28)
        • Rich Schein, Kaila Grenier, and Mark Schmeler presented the findings of the Remote Telehealth Wheelchair provision study to national leaders and clinicians within the VA Spinal Cord Injury program.  The presentation was delivered remotely to over 40 attendees.  (Nov 28th)
           

        Publications and Other Accolades:

        • Thanks to all attended the holiday party last Friday.  Special thank you to Amy, Dan and Kim who pulled it together, and the students who volunteered!
        • Congratulations to the award winners:
          • Virgina Kaufmann: Stephanie Vasquez, Keerthana Kelliath, Jenna Sabato, Ben Jameson
          • Thomas O’Connor Award: Vince Schiappa
          • Sean & Stephanie Shimada Award: Anthony Yang
          • Todd Hargroder Award: Jeff Ruffing

         

        Upcoming Events & other announcements:

        • If you are faculty, please complete the SHRS Excellence in Teaching Survey by 12/21: Survey 
        • See attached .doc for the P&O schedule this week.
        • Click here to see the most recent SHRS Insider: Link
        • Recent NIH funding updates are here: Llink

         

        Meetings not previously announced:

        • Nov 15 – Rich Schein, Vince Schiappa, Mitchell Bell, and Mark Schmeler delivered an overview lecture on Rehabilitation Science & Technology to 29 freshman and sophomore students in the HRS 1018 Survey of Health and Rehabilitation Professions course. 
        • RST Faculty, Staff, and Students participated in the SHRS Open House in the William Pitt Union.  The event was well attended with much interest from potential students to apply to the RST program. 
        • Nov 1 – Mark Schmeler & Brad Dicianno attended and presented at the Center of Innovation for Complex Chronic Healthcare Steering Committee Meeting hosted by the VA Health Sciences Research & Development Center on Innovation in Chicago, IL.  They delivered a lecture entitled “Wheeled Mobility Service Provision for Veterans with Complex Needs: Optimizing Health, Participation and Safety Outcomes”.  The purpose of the meeting was to identify implementation research opportunities and collaborations between RST and the VA. 
        • Oct 20 – Mark Schmeler along with Patty Kummick and Janice Vance attended the Innovation Equation: Transforming Medicine meeting in Dublin, Ireland.  The event was hosted by the Pitt Innovation Institute and UPMC Enterprises to foster collaboration opportunities in Ireland. More information can be found at  https://www.ucis.pitt.edu/main/innovation-ireland
        • Oct 4 – Mark Schmeler & Greg Packer (US Rehab/VGM delivered an in-person presentations on data analyses and outcomes of the FMA/UDS at the Alpine Medical annual conference and exposition in Salt Lake City, UT. 
        • Sept 14 – Through a collaboration with GlobalPittsburgh and the US embassy in Argentina, Mark Schmeler & Team hosted 20 higher education and government deligates from Argentina at the Center for Assistive Technology.  There were discussions on potential future collaborations for student training, continuing education, research, and clinical advancements. More information can be found at www.globalpittsburgh.org

           

        RST is on social media and is actively increasing outreach:

        Please like/follow us:

        Facebook:
        https://www.facebook.com/PittMSPO  
        https://www.facebook.com/PittMSRT/

        Twitter:
        https://twitter.com/PittMSRT

         

        Share these videos of our programs:

         

        2018

        12-10-2018

        Events (recent and upcoming):

        • The RSTGSO and POSO’s Post-Holiday Fundraiser is on January 9th . Graduate students will be holding a silent auction, and we need your help! Consider donating your worst gift you received this holiday season, or something you have around the house (in good condition) but never use! Ticket will be sold to students, faculty and staff who can bid on their favorite items! One man’s junk is another man’s treasure!  (See Attached Flyer)
        • RST is hosting Sarah Tress & Shannon McCoy Jan 13th-Feb1st to help them perform testing on a low-cost cushion they have been developing.  Shannon & Sarah are both undergraduate students from MIT and have won several innovation awards to support the commercialization of the cushion. Info about their design is here: link
        • RST is hosting an in-person product review from March 11th-15th for the team from Consolidating Logistics for Assistive Technology Supply & Provision (CLASP).  This is a USAID funded project that supplies large-scale purchasers with appropriate assistive technology.  See more about CLASP here: link
        • RSTCE is hosting the 35th Anniversary International Seating Symposium from March 18th – 22nd in Pittsburgh.  More info here: link
           

        Publications and Other Accolades:

        • RST was awarded a grant from USAID to strengthen the global wheelchair sector.  This grant supports continued funding for the International Society of Wheelchair Professionals (ISWP) project.  The grant is $1M, and will support operations for approximately two years.  ISWP is a collaborative effort between RST (Jon Pearlman) and HERL (Mary Goldberg) and support several students and staff in RST.
        • Congratulations to Jon Duvall and Co-Authors (Jon Pearlman, David Brienza, and Tricia Karg) who had their manuscript entitled  DETECTION AND CLASSIFICATION METHODOLOGY FOR MOVEMENTS IN THE BED THAT SUPPORTS CONTINUOUS PRESSURE INJURY RISK ASSESSMENT AND REPOSITIONING COMPLIANCE approved for publication in the Journal of Tissue Viability. Link

        Funding Announcements:

        • The TREAT center call for proposals are due on Jan 8th to support product innovation and tech-transfer. Link
        • NIH just announced several FOAs related to their pain-management initiatives (HEAL).  Info here: link
        • NIDILRR Grant has several grant opportunities which can be found here: link
        • Pitt’s Innovation in Education Awards are due Jan 28th : link
        • ISPO’s world congress travel grant applications are here: link

        Other announcements:

        RST is on social media and is actively increasing outreach:

        Please like/follow us:

        Facebook:
        https://www.facebook.com/PittMSPO  
        https://www.facebook.com/PittMSRT/

        Twitter:
        https://twitter.com/PittMSRT

         

        Share these videos of our programs:

         

        12-03-2018

        Special Order:

        RST25th Jackets

         

        Meetings:

        Check out the videos of the recent state of the science symposium that RST staff helped with: http://www.herl.pitt.edu/rehab-care

         

        Publications and Other Accolades:

        • Congratulations to Drs. Goldberg, Pearlman, Rushton and Cooper for having their paper titled The International Society of Wheelchair Professionals (ISWP): A resource aiming to improve wheelchair services worldwide in the British Journal of Occupational Therapy. Link here: https://journals.sagepub.com/eprint/iveNeBn7pjNJktd3npXy/full
        • Congratulations to Dr. Mhatre, Dr. Pearlman, and Stephanie Lachelle (former RST coop) for having their paper titled Development, reliability, and piloting of a wheelchair caster failure inspection tool (C-FIT) accepted for publication in Disability & Rehab: AT.
        • Dan Fisher spoke at the Grand Opening Celebration of the Forrest Hills Veterans and Senior Housing unit. The event was organized by ACTION-Housing, Inc, who is instrumental in renovating old buildings in order to provide much needed housing.
        • Congratulations to the P&O Student Organization’s (POSO) new officers & class liaisons:
          • President: Cecelia Lee-Hauser; Vice President: Casey Plonczak; Business Manager/Treasurer: Emily Shannon Secretary: Eugene Lin; Fundraising & Events Coordinator: Lauren Casertano; Outreach & Social Media Co-Coordinators: Saralyn Ostrowski & Claire Gallagher; Class Liaisons: Bri Perry & Kevin Quinn

         

        Upcoming Events & other announcements:

        • CTSI is accepting proposals for their pilot program on research across the lifespan (REAL). More here: link
        • Students—please make sure to fill out your teaching surveys (OMET)!
        • Faculty- please remember that grade rosters must be completed by Dec 18th (at 11:59pm)

         

        RST is on social media and is actively increasing outreach:

        Please like/follow us:

        Facebook:
        https://www.facebook.com/PittMSPO  
        https://www.facebook.com/PittMSRT/

        Twitter:
        https://twitter.com/PittMSRT


        11-19-2018

        Upcoming Events & other announcements:

        • RESNA’s call for papers and symposia are now open.  Workshops/Symposia are due Dec 21st, and Scientific Papers are due Feb 15th.
        • RST study/work space is available:  A computer lab has been setup in Suite 402, outside of Dr. Pearlman’s office.  Also, students are welcome to use un-occupied cubicles in Suite 401 to study.  These seats are all first-come-first-served and you should remove all of your personal items after you use the seat.
        • ICRE’s CTS scholar’s program applications are now open.  More info here: link
        • Pitt has two calls for education-related programs:
          • Personalized Education Project Proposals Due Jan 4th: link
          • Innovation in Ed award Due Jan 29th: link

         

        RST is on social media and is actively increasing outreach:

        Please like/follow us:

        Facebook:
        https://www.facebook.com/PittMSPO  
        https://www.facebook.com/PittMSRT/

        Twitter:
        https://twitter.com/PittMSRT


        11-12-2018

        Publications and Other Accolades:

        • Thanks to all of the RST members who were part of the hand-cycle assistance team that helped out with the EQT Ten-Mile, on Nov 4th!

         

        Upcoming Events & other announcements:

        • ISS registration is now open. Click here for more info: link
        • Pitt’s Design Hub is having an info session on Wednesday 11/28 at 6pm in Benedum 102
        • HSLS classes are posted here: link
        • The Chancellor is requesting nominations for staff awards. info here: link
        • The ETD site has been updated and is now more easy to search. See here: link
        • The Center for Doctoral and Postdoctoral Career Development is hosting a lecture on mentoring relationships on Nov 15th from 3-5. More info here: link
        • RWJ Foundation is accepting applications for projects that expands the evidence base to build a ‘culture of health’ more info here: link
        • SDA’s October meeting is Tomorrow!, Nov 13th from 6-7:30 in WPU 539.
        • The Neilsen Foundation’s Creating Opportunity & Independence (CO&I) target innovative approaches that empower individuals with SCI to live independently and enjoy improved emotional and physical well-being.more info here: link
        • Applications for the McMurty Family Undergrad Research Award are due by Feb 15th. More info here: link

         

        RST is on social media and is actively increasing outreach:

        Please like/follow us:

        Facebook:
        https://www.facebook.com/PittMSPO  
        https://www.facebook.com/PittMSRT/

        Twitter:
        https://twitter.com/PittMSRT


        11-05-2018

        Meetings:

        • Faculty attended GaitKeeper demonstration at DeLaTorre O&P, Oct. 16
        • RST participated in the open house last Saturday (Thanks to all those who attended)!
           

        Publications and Other Accolades:

        • Congratulations to Yohali Burrola for having her abstract accepted: 'Development and Evaluation of a Hybrid Course of Wheelchair Service Provision for Clinicians in International Contexts: A Training Intervention in Colombia, USA, India, and Mexico', at the CUGH 2019 Conference which will be held in Chicago, IL from March 8-10, 2019
        • Congratulations to Deepan Kamaraj for having his paper accepted to Frontiers in Psychology: Expertise Moderates Incidentally Learned Associations Between Words and Images: link

         

        Upcoming Events & other announcements:

        • Today at noon in the Cathedral of Learning Lawn there will be a tribute to the victims of the Tree of Life massacre. 
        • Attend the Annual Gideon Lecture on Innovation Impact on Nov. 12th. 
        • Innovation In Education Awards are Due in January (RST has been awarded these in the past!): link
        • Applications are being accepted for the Mentorship Exchange and Talent Accelerator for the Disability:IN, which is an organization that empowers business to achieve disability inclusion and equality.  Applications are here: link
        • On Nov. 6th Erica Swanson from Otto Bock will present on Myoelectrics for the second year O&P students
        • Yohali Burrola will lead an in-person training on wheelchair service provision in Mexico City related to ISWP and the CUGH grant.  Safe travels Yohali!

         

        RST is on social media and is actively increasing outreach:

        Please like/follow us:

        Facebook:
        https://www.facebook.com/PittMSPO  
        https://www.facebook.com/PittMSRT/

        Twitter:
        https://twitter.com/PittMSRT


        10-29-2018

        It was incredibly sad to learn of the tragedy at the Tree of Life Synagogue last weekend. We are all impacted, especially when these things happen so close to home. Please support your peers and colleagues in this challenging time, and reach out to me directly with any questions or concerns. Below my update, I have pasted emails from the Chancellor and Dr. Art Levine which include support resources (link).

         

        Meetings:

        • Patricia Karg participated in the ISO TC173/SC1 working group on seating in London, UK
        • David Brienza participated in the ISO TC173 working group on support surfaces in London, UK
        • David Brienza presented "Use of standard performance measures in clinical trials evaluating effectiveness of medical devices” at the British Healthcare Trades Association Symposium on Support Surfaces, Performance, effectiveness … the future.

         

        Publications and Other Accolades:

        • Dr. Fiedler was recently interviewed in AOPA’s magazine. See pg 30 (link)
        • Katie Blackley from our local NPR station (WESA) interviewed MSPO instructors/faculty and patient models about the MSPO program.

         

        Upcoming Events & other announcements:

        • P&O Is holding Hanger residency interviews for national positions.
        • Pitt’s policy on extreme weather conditions: link
        • A faculty workshop on Implicit Bias will be held Nov 6th; sign up here: link
        • University Center for Teaching and Learning will host a workshop on coaching students communication to foster professionalism. More info here: link


        10-22-2018

        Meetings:

        • ISO 7176 meetings are ongoing in London, with many RST faculty, staff and students participating in-person or remotely.  
        • Dr. Pearlman attended NIDILRR’s 40th Anniversary Celebration in DC last Thursday.  NIDILRR is part of the department of HHS and has sponsored several large grants received by RST, including Dr. Brienza’s current RERC on product standards and Dr. Pearlman’s DRRP on technology transfer.

         

        Publications and Other Accolades:

        • Dr. Fiedler received noticed that his paper will be published in the Journal of Rehabilitation & Assistive Technologies Engineering (RATE).  The paper is titled: Feasibility of a mobile feedback system for gait retraining in people with lower limb loss - a technical note.  Congratulations Goeran!

         

        Upcoming Events & other announcements:

        • The Research Conduct & Compliance office is hosting a training on good research practice on Oct 29th from 10-12. 
        • NIH reauthorized their direct to phase II sbir program, which allows grantees to skip the Phase I award.  Info here: link
        • Neilsen Foundation is accepting LOIs for their Creating Opportunities & Independence Grants.  LOI is due on Dec 7th.  More info here: link
        • PVA education foundation is accepting application for their awards totaling up to 50k.  Due date is Dec 3rd. More info here: link
        • Doctoral Students wanting to participate in the 3MT Competition this spring should confirm with Courtney Fleck (Courtney.fleck@pitt.edu) by this Friday, the 26th.


        10-15-2018

        Meetings:

        • Dr. Brienza participated in the Support Surface Standards meeting in Chicago, IL
        • ISO 7176 meetings are planned for next week in London, with many RST faculty, staff and students participating in-person or remotely.  

         

        Publications and Other Accolades:

        • Dr. Brienza authored an article in the NRRTS Magazine (Directions): link

         

        Upcoming Events & other announcements:

        • ISWP’s newsletter can be found here: link
        • Planning grants are available to support development of P01 applications to NIH.  Applications are due Nov 15th and can be up to 100k to support staff to prepare for a P01.  More info here: link
        • The Pittsburgh Steelwheelers 5k Run/walk/wheel is on October 20th.  register here: link
        • The Global Cooperation on AT from WHO just published their newsletter here: link
        • ISPO recently announced the call for papers/proposals for their world congress schedule for October 2019 in Japan.  More here: link
        • CTSI has pilot funding opportunities.  The next one on quantitative methods is due on Nov 14th.  Details here: link
        • Humanity & Inclusion (formerly Handicap International) recently published their international newsletter which can be found here: link
        • The United Way Fundraiser is now in full swing: To reach that goal we will need to eclipse last year’s mark of 2,471 donors, including 224 Leadership Donors. Pitt's goal in 2018 is to raise 300 leadership gifts—individuals who pledge $1,000 or more—and we hope you will be one of them. To make a leadership-level pledge that will support your passions and create lasting change, please go to my.pitt.edu and click on the United Way button, or email the Pitt United Way team at pittunitedway@pitt.edu. 



        10-08-2018

        Publications and Other Accolades:

        • The AAATE 2018 executive summary (link) and full report (link) are now available and include presentations related to ISWP’s global outreach to Philippines and Romania.
        • Congratulations to Dr. Anand Mhatre, an RST Post-Doc, for being awarded a Year of PittGlobal project to develop a smartphone app to measure outdoor wheelchair performance. The award comes with $5,000 to support the development of the app.
        • RST PhD Student Yohali Burrola’s publication in PLoS one Titled Implementation of the hybrid course on basic wheelchair service provision for Colombian wheelchair service providers is now available online in both English & Spanish. Congratulations to Yohali & her co-authors. link here: link
        • The results of the Wheelchair Stakeholder Meeting are now available. The executive summary can be found here: link. The meeting was co-hosted by USAID, World Learning, and ISWP (an RST project) in Bangalore India in early 2018, and will be used to guide future funding into the sector by USAID and other donors.

         

        Upcoming Events & other announcements:

        • The United Way Fundraiser is now in full swing: To reach that goal we will need to eclipse last year’s mark of 2,471 donors, including 224 Leadership Donors. Pitt's goal in 2018 is to raise 300 leadership gifts—individuals who pledge $1,000 or more—and we hope you will be one of them. To make a leadership-level pledge that will support your passions and create lasting change, please go to my.pitt.edu and click on the United Way button, or email the Pitt United Way team at pittunitedway@pitt.edu.
        • All PIs should attend Pitt’s effort reporting workshops to learn or refresh their memories about the effort approval process and related policies; note that Pitt holds PI’s accountable for the accuracy of the effort certification. register here: link
        • RST staff should save the date for Nov 9th, 12:30-3 for the SHRS Staff development Seminar on Effective workplace communication
        • To learn more about Rehab funding, I strongly recommend everyone sign up to receive the Join the Rehabilitation Research Listserv:
          go to: https://olaw.nih.gov/resources/list.htm and sign-up for this list: rehab-nih
        • Pitt’s Science 2018 is from Oct 17th-19th. More info here: link
        • NSF is having a competition for ‘big ideas’ and winners will be awarded $26k. See more here: link



        10-01-2018

        Meeting:

        Congratulations to the several MSPO graduates and faculty who presented posters at the AOPA conference in Vancouver:

        • Boyle, Tommy. “Transtibial RevoFit Socket Accommodations for Residual Limb Volume Changes”
        • Osik, Goeffrey.  “Climate and Hyperhidrosis in Lower Extremity Amputees”, 
        • McKillop, Travis. “Preference for Prosthetic Covers: Is it Influenced by Gender, Age or Amputation Level?”
        • Cooper, Gyasi. “Is Residual Limb Temperature A Decisive Factor In Determining Sleep Quality Among Amputees?”
        • Burke, Julie. “Online Access to Research Papers –Changes over Time”
        • Valentine, Lance, Morris, Conner. “Utility of Virtual Reality Headsets to Mitigate Reactivity Effects in Lower Limb Prosthetic Gait Assessment” 
        • Mankoff, J., Savage, S., Eckert, S., Ngo, C., Fiedler, G. “User experiences with traditional and 3D-printed Upper Extremity Prostheses, Development of a comprehensive Survey Instrument”
        • Dr. Jon Pearlman and MSRT students Stephanie Vasquez, Stephanie Vasquez attended the AT Makers’ Fair in Concord, NH last Saturday link.  The next AT Makers’ Fair will be held in 2019 in Pittsburgh and co-hosted by RST.    

         

        Publications & other accolades:

        • Congratulations again to MSPO students Katherine Ching and Peter Zenger for their awards from AOPA!

         

        Upcoming Events & other announcements:

        • A faculty development workshop on how to recruit diverse faculty will be held tomorrow.  More info here: link

        • Students for Disability Advocacy is having their next meeting on Oct 9th from 6-7:30 in William Pitt Union Room 837.  More info here: link

        • John Letizia, ATP, CAPS, CEAC, President of Laurel Medical Solutions on Wednesday, October 3rd at 12:00 pm in the RST Main Conference Room. The title of John’s talk is “Big Picture of Being an Assistive Technology Professional & DME Business Owner”

        • The office of research has ongoing trainings available for new researchers.  More info here: link

        • Be sure to add your name to the list if you want to participate in the active shooter training link. I only received one name on the survey last week, and we need to recruit a large group to host the training.  The list is here: link


        09-24-2018

        Meeting:

        • The AT Maker’s Fair is at UNH this Saturday link. RST is considering co-hosting the event in 2019 and may be looking for volunteers.  Enjoy the event for those who are able to attend.

        Publications & other accolades:

        • RST was awarded a NIDILRR DRRP research center on Knowledge Translation for Technology Transfer.  The award is $925k/year for 5 years and will support Assistive Technology Transfer activities for all NIDILRR grantees.  The award is a collaboration between RST (Director- Dr. Jon Pearlman), HERL (Co-Director –Dr. Mary Goldberg), Innovation Institute, Katz School of Business, and CTSI at Pitt, as well as many non-Pitt collaborators.

        Upcoming Events & other announcements:

        • RSTGO’s fundraiser at CHOOLAAH is scheduled for this Wednesday, Sept 26th.  Spread the word and plan to go… they will receive 30% of the revenue generated that day. 
        • The Fall Research Training Series for Grad Students and Faculty has a workshop on 10/3 about writing a K award link
        • Pitt will nominate three advisor/student pairs for the Howard Hughes Gillman Fellowship.  More info here and reach out to your advisor if you want to be considered for nomination; deadline is Oct 1st.
        • Pitt has launched a university-wide calendar.  RST has its own thread link
        • RST recently hosted the Pitt police to run an active shooter training (link).  If you are interested in participating in a future training, click this link and add your name and email address through this form link


        09-17-2018

        Publications & other accolades:

        • Implementation of the Hybrid Course on Basic Wheelchair Service Provision for Colombian Wheelchair Service Providers by Burrola, Toro (RST Alum!), Mary Goldberg and Jon Pearlman was accepted for publication in PLoS One. (PONE-D-18-17620R2)

        Upcoming Events & other announcements:

        • RSTGO’s fundraiser at CHOOLAAH is scheduled for Sept 26th. Spread the word and plan to go… they will receive 30% of the revenue generated that day.

        • Updated information on graduate student unionization can be found here: link

        • There are a ranger of new professional development programs for faculty. Info here: link

        • UPMC’s Competitive Medical Research Fund provides pilot awards up to 40k. Deadline is in Jan 7th. more info here: link

        09-10-2018

        • Dave Brienza presented at the UPMC Skin Health Conference.
          Presentation Title:  What causes pressure injury? Our evolving understanding of how pressure and shear result in deep tissue pressure injuries
          Science 2018 is on October 18th/19th, and abstracts are due Oct 5th.  More info here: http://www.science2018.pitt.edu/posters.htm

        • ISWP Is Launching two new toolkits, one to support wheelchair policies, and the other to support academic institutions who want to train wheelchair service providers.  Webinars are in English, French and Spanish and start on the 13th.  More info and rsvp here: Link

        09-04-2018

        • Mark Schmeler delivered a keynote presentation last Wednesday at the Sunrise Medical National Training & Sales Meeting in Colorado Springs entitled Access, Quality, & Cost of Complex Rehabilitation Technology. The session was attended by 150 Sunrise North American personnel from across North America. Following the presentation, Mark met with Sunrise Global leadership to discuss collaborations with RST and Pitt for student internships, research activities, product development, legislative advocacy, and clinical outcomes.

        • Stephanie Vasquez, an MSRT student, participated in SuperHero Boost, a workshop by KidMob (http://kidmob.org/superheroboost/) that was hosted in San Francisco in June.
          Here is a blog about the event by google (link), and here is a video posted by Autodesk (link)

        • Dave Brienza is co-author on a new publication which reports on the outcomes of a expert panel convened at the NIH. The title of the manuscript and link are below.
          Medical Rehabilitation: Guidelines to Advance the Field with High-Impact Clinical Trials. https://www.archives-pmr.org/article/S0003-9993(18)31113-4/fulltext

          Orthotic and Prosthetic Group of America, OPGA, named Sara Peterson as one of four finalist for the inaugural O&P Woman of the Year Award. The results will be announced at the AOPA annual meeting scheduled for Sept 26t

        • Tyler Fleck was elected as the Co-Staff Representative on the SHRS Planning and Budget Committee for a two year term. He will review and make recommendations to all SHRS academic, planning, and budget proposal that go the Senior Vice Chancellors, Provost, and University level.

        • Mark Schmeler was appointed as Vice Chair of Education & Training. Mark’s new role as Vice Chair, he will support all education and training activities in RST, continue to serve as the Director of Continuing Education, and has been appointed as the Director of the Rehab Tech Master’s Program, taking over the role from Drs. Dan Ding and Ali Koontz. (Thanks DD & Ali for your past leadership!).

        • Rich Schein is supporting Mark in his new role, and is now the internship coordinator of the RT Master’s program.


        08-27-2018

        • Tyler Fleck was invited to be part of the SHRS staff advisory team which is a small group of staff in SHRS that provides consultation, idea generation, etc. on issues of importance to the SHRS administrative staff

        • (Mary Goldberg, Jon Pearlman, Paula Ruston (UdM) and Rory Cooper, had a publication in British Journal of Occupational Therapy, August 21, 2018: “The International Society of Wheelchair Professionals (ISWP): A resource aiming to improve wheelchair services worldwide

        • O&P Student Peter Zenger received the eight annual Otto and Lucille Becker Award for the abstract that titled, “Self-Efficacy Related to Education Level in O&P”

        • Goeran Fiedler and Krista Kutina had a full patent application submitted: System and Methods for Gait and Running Functional Improvement and, Performance Training (app #: 16106298_


        08-19-2018

        • Congrats to Goeran Fiedler for a publication and also having one of his students (Katherine Ching) receive an award at AOPA. 

          Fiedler, G., Savage, S., Schull, J., & Mankoff, J. (2018). THE CASE FOR BROAD-RANGE OUTCOME ASSESSMENT ACROSS UPPER LIMB DEVICE CLASSES. Canadian Prosthetics & Orthotics Journal, 1(1). Retrieved from https://jps.library.utoronto.ca/index.php/cpoj/article/view/29970
          “An Analysis of Internal Consistency within OPUS in Upper Extremity Prosthesis Users,” on behalf of the University of Pittsburgh student, Katherine Ching has been chosen to receive the eight annual Edwin and Kathryn Arbogast Award! 

        08-12-2018

        • Mark Schmeler and Richard Schein attended a meeting at Blackburn’s positions pharmacy with Congressman Doyle to discuss legislation related to access too complex rehab technology. Trib Article about the meeting: link
        • Mark Schmeler (with Joe Ruffing help) gave a lecture remotely into a workshop in San Paulo Brazil on outcomes. Workshop planners included Ana Allegretti and Ana Souza who both received their MSRT and PhDs from RST. 
        • ISWP Team (Mary Goldberg, Krithika Kandavel and Yohali Burrola  held their in-person for the Trainer of Trainer Wheelchair Service Provision Training Package in Los Angeles, at UCP Wheels for Humanity.  Participants were from Bhutan, Thailand, and the US. link to tweet about the event: link 
        • Congrats to Dave Brienza for being re-elected to the National Pressure Ulcer Advisory Panel Board of Directors
        • Dave Brienza, Tricia Karg, Mark Schmeler (and others) published: A Randomized Clinical Trial of Wheeled Mobility for Pressure Injury Prevention and Better Function., Journal of American Geriatric Society. Link: https://rdcu.be/4jBV

         

        08-05-2018

        • The RSTCE Team collected over 200 mobility outcome assessments including FMA, UDS, and SPORTACUS, of Veterans participating at last week’s National Veterans Wheelchair Games in Orlando, FL.
        • Mark Schmeler and Richard Schein coordinated an in-person visit for Rep. Mark Mustio upon his request to better understand how occupational therapy uses telehealth. Currently, there is a telehealth bill in Harrisburg that has passed the Senate with occupational therapy specifically listed in the bill.  It resides in the Occupational Licensure Committee, which Rep. Mustio chairs.
        • Mark Schmeler and Mitch Bell attended and presented at the 2nd Colombian Seating Symposium in Medellin – Colombia on FMA Outcomes including the new Spanish translation and pediatric version. The Colombian Seating Symposium was chaired by Sarah Munera a graduate of the MSRT program. 
        • Kaila Grenier, Richard Schein, Mark Schmeler, Brad Dicianno, and Joseph Vasek presented at the Veterans Administration Rehabilitation Assistive Technology Grand Rounds titled, Telehealth Protocol for Complex Wheeled Mobility.’ To view the recording, you can click or copy/paste the following:  http://va-eerc-ees.adobeconnect.com/paemc84rlkbn/
        • RST signed onto an Independence Through Enhancement of Medicare and Medicaid (ITEM) coalition letter to CMS Administration to request coverage for seat elevators and standing wheelchairs.

         

        07-29-2018

        • Ten participants from five countries (USA, Canada, Mexico, Thailand, and Bhutan) will are taking ISWP’s online Training of Trainers course  during July 23rd – August 3rd and will participate in the in-person training in California from  August 6th– 8th.
        • The RSTCE team is developing webinars to highlight the research and other activities in the wheelchair sector, including the work of colleagues in RST.  (information provided in this update is helping to inform them of our activities, so continue to share…)
        • RST hosted a site visit from a team from NIDILRR related to DRRP Application on Knowledge Translation in Technology Transfer. The title of the center/grant is:  Initiative to Mobilize Partnerships for Successful Assistive Technology Translation (IMPACT) and it is a collaboration between RST (lead), CTSI, Innovation Institute, KATZ, HERL and a number of national and international partners.  We should be notified within the next month about the funding decision. 
        • The SHRS internal/external relationship team was shooting video in RST’s research and teaching spaces on Friday to capture footage for marketing and promotion.  Thanks to everyone who helped with the shoot!

         

        07-22-2018

        • Tricia Karg as chair of the AT Standards Board, participated in the RESNA standards meeting and presented the work to the RESNA Board
        • Dave Brienza & Tricia Karg attended the RERC directors meeting in DC at RESNA and presented on the progress of research center activities. 
        • Jon Pearlman and Lee Kirby led a workshop at ISPRM in Paris on wheelchair skills and maintenance training.  
        • Mark Schmeler presented on sports participation outcomes at RESNA.
        • Nancy Augustine presented the ISWP Minimum Uniform Dataset at RESNA.
        • P&O students travelled to WillowWood to learn about manufacturing and design of P&O components. 
        • Mary Goldberg, as chair of the CoA-RATE committee led a meeting at resna and presented to the RESNA Board, and presented a workshop on the accreditation process at RESNA
        • Mary Goldberg and Paula Rushton (Univ. of Montreal) presented at workshop on the Seating & Mobility Academic Resource Toolkit (SMART) at RESNA
        • Kaila Grenier - congratulations to Kaila for completing her MSRT degree requirements.
          Title: Veteran & Provider Satisfaction of a Home-Based Telerehabilitation Assessment for Wheelchair Seating & Mobility.
        • Joy Nix - congratulations to Joy for completing her MSRT degree degree requirements.
          Topic:  RESNA ATPs.  current status and future growth opportunities for the certification
        • Sara Peterson — congratulations to Sara for completing her work recently for her PhD. 
          Title: Neuromuscular Electrical Stimulation Use in Transtibial Amputations.
        • Jeannis H, Lewis A, Goldberg M, Seelman K, Schmeler M, Cooper RA. Participation in Science and Engineering Laboratories for Students with Physical Disabilities: Survey Development and Psychometrics. Disability and Rehabilitation: Assistive Technology (IIDT)https://doi.org/10.1080/17483107.2018.1499049 (in production)
        • Mandala, M., Schunn, C., Dow, S., Goldberg, M., Pearlman, J., Clark, W., Mena, I. (2018). Impact of Collaborative Team Peer Review on the Quality of Feedback in Engineering Design Projects. International Journal of Engineering Education, 34(4), 1299–1313.
        • Mandala, M., Schunn, C., Dow, S., Goldberg, M., Pearlman, J. (2018). Uncovering the Practices, Challenges, and Incentives for Engineering Design Faculty.International Journal of Engineering Education, 34(4), 1314–1324.
        • Dr. Chis Hvorka’s study funded by AOPA-COPL on the Gait and motion control benefits of custom molded passive-dynamic AFOs versus custom fit carbon composite AFOs is was funded and received IRB approval for data collection.


        Back to the Home Page

        Updated | 05.24.2020

Home page for RST 2

© 2020 University of Pittsburgh | SHRS | RST