Fern Silverman

Fern Silverman, EdD, is an Associate Professor and Assistant Director of the Doctoral Program in Occupational Therapy (OTD) at Salus University. She joined Salus in 2013 during the early stages of the OT program and co-founded the OTD program in 2016, fostering a collaborative and innovative environment. Her clinical specialties include Pediatrics, Environmental Adaptations, and Community-based Practice.

Dr. Silverman holds an EdD from Arcadia University, an MS from George Washington University, and a BS from the University of Pennsylvania. Her research focuses on mentorship, museum accessibility, and interprofessional collaboration. She has presented at national and regional conferences, including the American Occupational Therapy Association and Pennsylvania Occupational Therapy Association.

Recipient of the 2020 Presidential Medal of Honor and the 2006 Master Clinician Award, Dr. Silverman is recognized for her dedication to education and clinical excellence. She has advised students like Nicole del Busto and Kristin Kapelwicz, who praised her mentorship and emphasis on evidence-based practice.

Her professional activities include grant work (e.g., Pennsylvania Department of Education’s Gaskin settlement grant, 2006-2008) and consulting roles, such as accessibility advising for the Franklin Institute. Dr. Silverman’s contributions to Salus University’s OT programs have shaped its academic and clinical direction, emphasizing community engagement and inclusive practices.