Haley Thacker
Mount Vernon
Summary
As an enthusiastic OTD graduate student and proactive learner, I thrive on turning challenges into opportunities for growth. My leadership and teamwork skills shine through in every project, driving positive change and inspiring my peers. With unwavering dedication, I embrace every opportunity to make a meaningful impact in the field of occupational therapy.
Overview
4
4
years of professional experience
Work History
Graduate Assistant
Eastern Kentucky University Occupational Therapy Program
2022.08 - 2026.05
- Directed peer mentors in Colonels Mentoring Colonels, a campus program supporting neurodiverse students, and assisted OT faculty with course preparation, student support, and departmental initiatives.
Office Staff/Substitute Teacher
Rockcastle County Board of Education
2022.06 - 2026.05
- Managed classroom behavior effectively, fostering a positive learning environment.
- Followed classroom plans left by class teacher to continue student education and reinforce core concepts.
- Adapted instructional materials to meet varied student needs and learning styles.
- Boosted student engagement with interactive lessons, incorporating real-world examples and hands-on activities.
Learning Assistant
STEM Center of Excellence & BIOS Center, Eastern Kentucky University
2023.08 - 2025.05
- Facilitated interactive learning sessions using advanced STEM educational tools.
- Assisted faculty in evaluating student progress and providing personalized feedback.
- Organized workshops and events to promote STEM education initiatives on campus.
- Developed and implemented engaging curriculum materials for diverse student audiences.
Education
Doctorate Degree - Occupational Therapy
Eastern Kentucky University
2027-05
Bachelor of Science - Occupational Sciences
Eastern Kentucky University
2025-05
Skills
- Adaptability
- Ability to Work in a Team
- Leadership Skills
- Communication Skills
- Detail Oriented
- Academic Research
Accomplishments
- American Occupational Therapy Association, Member
- Kentucky Occupational Therapy Association, Member
- Eastern Kentucky University Occupational Therapy Program, Student Faculty Representative (2024-2026)
- Pi Theta Epsilon, Chapter President (2025-2026)
- Student Occupational Therapy Association, Secretary (2025-2026)
- Student Occupational Sciences Association, Scholarship Chair (2024-2025)
Timeline
Learning Assistant
STEM Center of Excellence & BIOS Center, Eastern Kentucky University
2023.08 - 2025.05
Graduate Assistant
Eastern Kentucky University Occupational Therapy Program
2022.08 - 2026.05
Office Staff/Substitute Teacher
Rockcastle County Board of Education
2022.06 - 2026.05
Doctorate Degree - Occupational Therapy
Eastern Kentucky University
Bachelor of Science - Occupational Sciences
Eastern Kentucky University
Awards & Achievements
- Presented a Literature Review Research Poster on the Developmental Vulnerability of Children in the United States at 2025 Annual KOTA Conference at Eastern Kentucky University
- Research Presenter at 2025 Annual College of Health Sciences Scholar's Day at Eastern Kentucky University
- Received Outstanding Department Award at the 2025 Annual College of Health Sciences Scholar's Day at Eastern Kentucky University
- 2022 Outstanding First Year Honors Student Award, Eastern Kentucky University
Scholarship
Adams, K., Alleruzzo, L., Cannoy, A., Chavez, J., Curran, A., Hardman, L. J., Marcum, K., Richards, H., Thacker, H., & Wilson, E. (2026, April 17). Effects of leisure occupations on university students perceived stress [Conference presentation]. Eastern Kentucky University Department of Occupational Science and Occupational Therapy 21st Annual Research Day, Richmond, KY, United States.