Diana Davis, Ph.D., MA, OTR/L, has been named chair of the West Virginia University School of Medicine Division of Occupational Therapy, effective August 15, 2025.
“WVU is a special place, and I am very excited for the opportunity to lead the Division of Occupational Therapy,” Davis said. “The faculty, students and alumni are key to our success, and I look forward to working with them to increase the recognition of our innovative educational programs, as well as our work in advancing occupational therapy practice.”
Davis joined WVU in 1999 and currently serves as an associate professor of occupational therapy and director of the doctoral program in occupational therapy. Davis also served as the vice chairperson for the Division and recently completed her term as Chairperson of the University Faculty Senate.
“Dr. Davis has been a driving force in shaping our occupational therapy curriculum. She has a gift for blending innovation with compassion, ensuring that our students are not only well-prepared clinically but also deeply connected to the people they serve,” Mary Beth Mandich, Ph.D., PT, vice dean for Health Professions, said.
Prior to joining the University, Davis worked in a clinical capacity that took her from Michigan, to California, to Kentucky and finally to J.W. Ruby Memorial Hospital.
Her clinical specialties include trauma and acute care, neurological injuries and concussion care. Davis' research is primarily in topics related to traumatic brain injuries and concussion, as well as instructional methods.
Davis earned her doctoral and master’s degrees in higher education administration from West Virginia University and holds a bachelor’s degree in occupational therapy from Western Michigan University.
She fills the role previously held by interim chair Amanda Acord-Vira, Ed.D., OTR/L, who remains faculty within the department.
To learn more about pathways to occupational therapy at WVU, visit, medicine.wvu.edu/students/pre-health. For more information on the WVU Occupational Therapy, visit medicine.wvu.edu/ot/.
