A Model Mentor: Virginia Scardina, MA, MEd, OTR/L, FAOTA.
The purpose of this study was to document the influence Virginia (Ginny) Scardina, MA, MEd, OTR/L, FAOTA, occupational therapist extraordinaire, had on individuals whom she mentored. Scardina's influence was documented in a former unpublished qualitative study that conducted interviews with two of her former colleagues and six former students. This study, through the voices of five original participants and a second layer of data analysis, identified Scardina as a model mentor who was a master teacher. As a master teacher Scardina believed that, "You've got to teach to learn." Furthermore, Scardina, as a model mentor, facilitated growth in others by, "Bringing out the best," in them. Scardina's skills as a model mentor are discussed in relationship to the role of a mentor who supports, challenges others, and provides vision. Fieldwork and academic educators can learn from Scardina while reflecting upon their own influence and role in mentoring others.
Xavier University, Department of Occupational Therapy, 3800 Victory Parkway, Cincinnati, OH, 45207-7341 scheerer@xavier.edu.
Carol R
CR
Scheerer
Catherine L
CL
Drumheller
S Leila
SL
Mehbod-Owens