Mother and Daughter Receive HSU Doctorates
Two years ago HSU assistant professor Mary Lou Garrett conducted a study on the causes of childhood obesity. Today, with a new doctorate degree in hand, she is empowered to help her students deal with a number of growing epidemics among children.
Dr. Mary Lou Garrett
Garrett is one of 19 practicing physical therapist to receive a Doctor of Physical Therapy degree from Hardin-Simmons this past December.
As the Director of Clinical Education here at HSU, Garrett says, "The evidence supported research class enhances my ability to work with my own students."
Garrett goes on to explain that throughout the two year program, she received instruction from top-notch physical therapist from across the country. "They allowed us to tailor our assignments to meet our interests, and for me, that is pediatrics."
The obesity study, performed by Garrett and Professor of Physical Therapy, Dr. Dennis O'Connell, was published in the February 19, 2007 edition of PT Today. The article discusses the role parents play as physical therapists nationwide confront pediatric obesity.
Garret's most recent research project deals with diagnosis and therapeutic intervention of autism.
Garrett's doctorate is part of the new transitional program HSU and Rocky Mountain University of Health Professionals have put together.
One interesting note, Garrett's daughter, Jill Garret Scott, also graduated that same night with her DPT degree.
Scott currently works in a skilled nursing facility in Snyder. Dr. Garret points out the irony of her daughter working in geriatrics and herself in pediatrics. She also adds, "My daughter was one of the youngest in the doctorate program and I was one of the oldest."
Garrett says there is just so much more to learn about autism and other disorders. She hopes to pass on her new found love of research and instill in her students the need for more.
She says of herself, "Always keep learning, you are never too old."
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