Baylor OTD Faculty Member Appointed President of the Texas Society for Hand Therapy

May 22, 2024
Ricardo Altahif Teaching Hand Occupational Therapy

Baylor University's Department of Occupational Therapy in Robbins College of Health and Human Sciences is pleased to announce that Ricardo Altahif OTD, OTR, CHT, Clinical Assistant Professor, has been appointed as President of the Texas Society for Hand Therapy (TSHT) for the 2024-2026 term. This prestigious role underscores his dedication to leadership and his ability to promote advancements in hand therapy that benefit both clients and practitioners.

Hand therapy, or rehabilitation of the upper extremity, is a rehabilitation practice setting that encompasses both occupational and physical therapy. TSHT is dedicated to promoting the field of hand therapy via education, research, and fellowship. During his presidency, Altahif will focus on advocating for these initiatives to ensure that hand therapists and other health care team members can maintain the highest standards of client care while exploring innovative ways to treat clients and serve their communities.

“I am honored to serve as President of the Texas Society for Hand Therapy and look forward to supporting the OT and PT communities in Texas via TSHT,” Altahif said. “I aim to help TSHT promote the field of hand therapy through educational resources, research endeavors, and fellowship. My goal is to make a positive impact that benefits both clinicians and patients alike.”

Ricky Altahif Teaching Occupational Therapy Splints

Altahif’s vision for his term includes increasing community collaborations that enhance the science of hand therapy and promoting evidence-based and innovative interventions in clinical settings. He aims to collaborate with the board of directors and committee chairs as they advocate for hand therapy in the greater health care community, prepare educational offerings for the hand therapy profession, and provide grants for hand therapy-related research and service opportunities. Under his leadership, TSHT is expected to build a strategic plan to guide the organization for the coming years.

“Ricardo's appointment as President of TSHT is a testament to the high caliber of faculty within Baylor’s OTD program and reflects the University’s commitment to leadership in healthcare education and practice,” said Marian Gillard, PhD, OTR, FAOTA, Chair and Clinical Associate Professor for Baylor’s Department of Occupational Therapy. “It also highlights our program’s dedication to integrating cutting-edge technologies and evidence-based practice to prepare students to be scholars, innovators, and leaders in occupational therapy.”

Please join us in congratulating Dr. Ricardo Altahif on his appointment and in recognizing the high standard he sets for professional practice and leadership in the occupational therapy community.