Lora B. Packel

Lora B. Packel is a Professor and Associate Dean of the School of Health Professions at Saint Joseph's University, where she also previously served as Chair of the Department of Physical Therapy. She holds a PhD in Health Services with a specialization in Community Health Promotion from Walden University, an MS in Physical Therapy from Boston University, and a BA in Biology from the University of Delaware. With 20 years of clinical experience as a physical therapist specializing in cardiovascular/pulmonary therapy and cancer rehabilitation, her academic roles combine administrative leadership with teaching and research.

Her research focuses on health promotion strategies in underserved populations, particularly cancer patients and caregivers, emphasizing exercise interventions and interprofessional education. She is also involved in motivational interviewing techniques to improve health behaviors. Dr. Packel serves as Vice-Chair of the Early Assurance Consortium of the American Council of Academic Physical Therapy (ACAPT).

Her publications span oncology rehabilitation, cardiopulmonary care, interprofessional education innovations, and technology-driven interventions in healthcare. Recent work explores mobile app alignment with exercise guidelines for cancer survivors and care transition simulations for healthcare students. Though no formal awards are cited, her contributions reflect impactful work in clinical education and patient-centered care models.