Kali Rodgers
For as long as she can remember, Kali Rodgers, MOT ’19 has had a passion for helping others. Growing up, she witnessed her cousin, who has cerebral palsy, work with an occupational therapist who taught him how to feed himself.
“A profession that helps other people become independent in something so meaningful that we sometimes take for granted every day was something I felt a calling towards,” Rodgers said.
This experience eventually led her to pursue a Master of Occupational Therapy (MOT). After majoring in neuroscience at Lebanon Valley College, she looked for a graduate school with personalized education close to home. She chose Messiah.
“Messiah seemed to be the perfect fit and also emphasized service, which is very near and dear to my heart,” Rodgers said.
As part of the first MOT cohort, she attributes her success to her professors.
“Starting a program is no easy feat,” Rodgers said. “The faculty worked day in and day out to help us achieve our dreams.”
One professor who has been particularly instrumental in her graduate studies is Leanne Rutt, assistant professor of occupational therapy (clinical track).
“Her door was also open and her motivational attitude day in and day out kept me going at times when I faced any challenges,” said Rodgers.
After graduation, she began working at Wellspan Hospital in York, Pennsylvania.
— Leanne Tan ’21