2024 ATRA Annual Conference - Together We Thrive, Together We Rise

MS, LRT, CTRS, CDP, FDRT

Joan L. Sutton is an Assistant Professor and Clinical Fieldwork Supervisor for the Department of Community and Therapeutic Recreation at the University of North Carolina Greensboro (UNCG). She has an undergraduate degree from the University of South Carolina and holds a master's degree in Recreational Therapy Administration from East Carolina University. She is a Licensed Recreational Therapist, a Certified Therapeutic Recreation Specialist, and a Certified Dementia Practitioner.

Joan currently serves as Executive Director for the North Carolina Board of Recreational Therapy Licensure (NCBRTL). In addition, she serves as a member of NCBRTL's internship task force and has developed and presented internship supervision training. Joan is a member of ATRA's Standards of Practice Subcommittee and is the co-chair of ATRA's Quality Internship Subcommittee and has created specific internship training content focusing on motivations, teaching styles, and learning stages.

EdD, CTRS

Rachel Smith is an Instructional Assistant Professor and Senior Internship Coordinator of Therapeutic Recreation in Kinesiology and Recreation at Illinois State University. She earned her B.S. degree in Psychology and M.S. in Recreation, Park and Tourism Administration from Western Illinois University. She earned her Ed.D. in Teaching and Learning from Illinois State University.

Dr. Smith's curiosity extends beyond the classroom. Her research spans a wide range of topics, including universal design, specific facilitation techniques in recreational therapy, equity in higher education, quality internships, and the Cruise Line Industry. She has also published books, chapters, and articles and frequently presents at conferences at the state and national level.

Smith is a longtime Certified Therapeutic Recreation Specialist (1995) and a member of Rho Phi Lambda. Her active involvement in professional organizations is a testament to her influence and leadership, as she serves on the Illinois Recreational Therapy Association (ILRTA) board and co-chairs committees for the American Therapeutic Recreation Association (ATRA). She is passionate about supporting and mentoring students and has co-coordinated several conferences, including the Great Lakes Recreation Therapy Student Conference. She is a lifelong learner, loves taking cruises with her family, and volunteers for Healing Rides, an adaptive bicycle program in her community.

Ph.D., MPA, CTRS/L

Shelby Sharpe has Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) in Health, Leisure, and Human Performance with an emphasis on Recreational Therapy from Oklahoma State University. She first began her career earning a bachelor’s at Texas state University where she is currently teaching and coordinating internships. Shelby has been a recreational therapist for 11 years with diverse experience working in the community, acute behavioral/mental health, and military settings. Shelby also works with Heroes on the Water, a nonprofit organization providing kayak fishing events to veterans, service members, emergency responders, and their families. Shelby is a young researcher focusing on special populations and community connection, with a specific interest in military service members. Shelby is excited to share her knowledge and support other professionals looking to advance their skillset.