Novant Health Rehabilitation Hospital partners with local university to educate students

July 24, 2026 — Occupational therapy students with Winston-Salem State University (WSSU) gained real-world experience recently at Novant Health Rehabilitation Hospital, an affiliate of Encompass Health. The students, accompanied by faculty members, shadowed occupational therapists and learned about inpatient rehabilitation.

Each student was paired with an occupational therapist to shadow therapy sessions and learn about collaborative care. Students also listened to presentations led by Director of Therapy Operations Austin Sparks, Therapy Manager Theresa Rivers and Senior Occupational Therapist Jacob Wiles. The presentations provided an overview of inpatient rehabilitation, career opportunities and the innovative technologies that help patients recover.

"Our partnership with Winston-Salem State University is incredibly valuable because it allows us to invest in the next generation of rehabilitation professionals, giving students meaningful, real-world experiences," said Rivers. "Many of the students who come through our doors discover a passion for inpatient rehabilitation, and we are proud to help guide them as they begin their careers."

Wiles also introduced students to the hospital’s advanced therapy equipment, offering a closer look at the innovative approaches that set inpatient rehabilitation apart. Through a Q&A session, students explored more about healthcare and the rewards of working in rehabilitation care.

"I could see the awe and excitement in the students' eyes as they watched and learned about how an inpatient rehabilitation hospital operates,” said Sanchala Sen, assistant professor at WSSU. “I have already received requests from some students to further explore this avenue for the future."

Novant Health Rehabilitation Hospital and WSSU have built a strong partnership through clinical education opportunities. Each year, the hospital hosts student rotations, providing more than 20 future clinicians with hands-on experience.

The partnership has also contributed to the hospital's workforce development efforts. More than 10 members of the therapy team are WSSU alumni, and many students who complete clinical rotations at Novant Health Rehabilitation Hospital return to begin their careers.

By creating opportunities for students to learn, grow and serve the community, Novant Health Rehabilitation Hospital and WSSU continue to strengthen a partnership that supports the future of rehabilitation care and the patients who depend on it.