Jonesboro, AR – JonesboroRightNow.com – The Department of Occupational Therapy (OT) in the College of Nursing and Health Professions (CNHP) at Arkansas State University will welcome six students and two faculty from Teikyo Heisei University in Tokyo this week, further expanding real-world learning and cultural opportunities.
During their weeklong trip to Jonesboro, the guests will attend classes in the college’s occupational therapy doctoral program and visit local clinics to observe occupational therapy practices in the United States. They will also meet with Chancellor Todd Shields, Provost Calvin White Jr. and other university leaders.
The pursuit of the cultural exchange began in March 2020, when faculty and administrators from Teikyo Heisei University first visited A-State to lay the foundation for the program. The group returned to Japan just days before the global COVID-19 pandemic shutdown, and efforts to solidify the exchange have continued ever since. Now, six years later, it has come to fruition.
Dr. Christine Wright, CNHP assistant dean for special projects and the occupational therapy department chair, says her department is still young, and it has been an honor to witness its growth and development.
“Words cannot express how excited I am about the cultural exchange. It is a remarkable opportunity and accomplishment. To have the Teikyo Heisei administration visit two and a half years after I arrived at A-State, and now to have the students and faculty come this year, is extraordinary for such a young program. What a phenomenal moment to manifest innovation,” Wright said.
Wright hopes the visit will foster the relationship between the universities and give guests a view of the profession in clinical settings in and around Jonesboro. The visit will also share the welcoming Red Wolf spirit of the department, college, and the campus community.
Despite cultural differences, all involved share a common passion for helping others through occupational therapy.
“We have a love for the occupational therapy profession, and our belief is that OT practitioners are true superheroes who help people of all ages live the best life they can despite any barriers they face,” Wright said.
Twelve students from the occupational therapy assistant and occupational therapy doctoral programs have volunteered to serve as ambassadors during the visit.
“We hope the exchange will provide A-State OT students with an opportunity to learn about occupational therapy in Japan and become friends with OT students from overseas,” she said. “Any chance to socialize with someone from another culture will help our students become better practitioners.”
The visit was formed through a collaboration between Chancellor Shields and Dr. Satoko Nemoto, the administration, faculty, and students of Teikyo Heisei University. Mr. Taron Robinson, A-State international programs director, has also been a vital partner in the development of the exchange.
“Robinson has been instrumental in securing logistics and events for the exchange. Additionally, the cooperation and effort from all the parties at Teikyo Heisei University was remarkable as well. It has been a pleasure working with such an extraordinary group of people,” Wright said.
Outside of the classroom and clinics, the group will explore northeast Arkansas, including visits to local attractions and shops. They will also attend a Memphis Grizzlies game before returning to Japan.
The visit will take place this week. It will conclude with the two universities working together on a plan for A-State faculty members and students to visit Teikyo Heisei University in spring 2027.