Elizabeth June Yerxa EdD, LHD (Hon.), DSc (Hon.), DMed (Hon.), OTR, FAOTA
Professor Emeritus of Occupational Science and Occupational Therapy
Highly regarded for her contributions to the philosophical base and values of occupational therapy, for her research on life satisfaction of people living with severe disabilities and the nature and management of time, as well as for her work initiating and advocating occupational science research. In 1966, Dr. Yerxa was awarded occupational therapy’s highest academic honor, the Eleanor Clarke Slagle Award, and delivered her Slagle Lecture entitled “Authentic Occupational Therapy.” She was named an AOTA Fellow in 1973, and received the AOTA Award of Merit, the highest award from the association, in 1987. Since 2003 she has been a Professor Emeritus at USC.
Education
Doctorate of Education (EdD)
in Educational Psychology
1971 | Boston University
Master of Education (MEd)
in Educational Psychology
1968 | Boston University
Master of Arts (MA)
in Occupational Therapy
1953 | University of Southern California
Bachelor of Science (BS)
in Occupational Therapy
1952 | University of Southern California
Selected Publications
Yerxa, E., Clark, F. A., Frank, G., Jackson, J. M., Parham, D., Pierce, D., Stein, C., & Zemke, R. (1990). An introduction to occupational science: A foundation for occupational therapy in the 21st century. Occupational Therapy in Health Care, 6(4), 1-17. Full text Show abstract
Occupational science is an emerging basic science which supports the practice of occupational therapy. Its roots in the rich traditions of occupational therapy are explored and its current configuration is introduced. Specifications which the science needs to meet as it is further developed and refined are presented. Compatible disciplines and research approaches are identified. Examples of basic science research questions and their potential contributions to occupational therapy practice are suggested.
In Chan News
January 1, 2019
Award recognizes career-long dedication to the science and practice of sensory integration and processing.
December 6, 2016
USC Chan faculty members Cermak and Clark among all-time notables
December 1, 2016
An esteemed USC alumna and occupational therapy leader passed away on Nov. 5, 2016, at the age of 94
June 23, 2016
By Mike McNulty Florence Clark, associate dean, chair and Mrs. T.H. Chan Professor of Occupational Science and Occupational Therapy, delivered the 2016 Thelma Cardwell Lecture at the University of Toronto on June 22. Her lecture, entitled “Occupational Therapy as Life Design: Fortifying Health and…
November 13, 2012
By Mike McNulty During the Division's 2012 Homecoming Weekend on November 9 and 10, alumni, students and friends gathered to open new clinical learning laboratories, celebrate a milestone anniversary, hear the latest from faculty, and celebrate together as the Trojan Family. At the USC Center for…
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