Emily Mozena

Emily Mozena is an Associate Professor of Instruction at the University of Iowa, serving as Director of Graduate Studies for the MS in Health and Human Physiology (Child Life Track) and Director of Undergraduate Studies for the BS in Therapeutic Recreation within the Department of Health and Human Physiology, College of Liberal Arts and Sciences.

Her educational background includes:

• Bachelor of Fine Arts in Painting
• Master of Arts in Leisure Studies (Therapeutic Recreation)
• PhD in Educational Psychology and Learning Sciences (in progress)

Dr. Mozena's research focuses on therapeutic recreation and child life interventions, particularly school re-entry programs for pediatric patients with chronic illness, promoting play in healthcare settings, and fostering coping/resilience in children facing parental cancer diagnoses. She actively develops community initiatives including the New Wonderers virtual support group for children with cancer-affected parents and Make-A-Wish volunteer work.

Her notable awards include:

• Make-A-Wish Iowa Volunteer of the Year (2015)
• University of Iowa Fraternity and Sorority Life Faculty Member of the Year (2014)

As an educator, she advises the Child Life Student Association, serves on Camp Kesam's board, and supports Dance Marathon. Her teaching portfolio spans therapeutic recreation pedagogy, child development, and clinical interventions across undergraduate and graduate programs including First-Year Seminar: More Than Words, Play and Childhood, and Child Life Practicum courses.