Lecture series continues with "Mindful Living to Overcome Opioid Addiction"

A female faculty member standing outside by a tree

Tammy Divens, assistant teaching professor in occupational therapy

Credit: Brooke Doerfler

The Penn State Shenango 2019-20 Lecture Series will continue with a presentation by Tammy Divens, assistant teaching professor in occupational therapy at 5:30 p.m. on Oct. 17 in Lecture Hall 223. Divens’ lecture, “Mindful Living to Overcome Opioid Addiction,” will share on mindsets that influence recovery, the concept of neuroplasticity and confronting addiction from a holistic perspective.

“As concerned professionals and citizens, it is imperative to discuss this serious issue and ways we can be a part of combatting the opioid crisis,” said Divens.

Divens, who began at Penn State Shenango in 2014 as an instructor, has also been a practicing occupational therapist for over 20 years in a variety of practice settings and client populations across the lifespan. She serves on the Buhl Regional Foundation Community Addiction Team where she joins community efforts to overcome the issues of addiction and the effects on individuals, families and community. She has served on the Alternatives to Pain Management for the Opioid Client development committee at the Community Counseling Center where she initiated and developed an occupational therapy program to provide therapeutic interventions to address the unique needs of individuals who suffer from opioid addiction.

On Feb. 26, Philip Nash, associate professor of history, will present “Breaking Protocol: America’s First Female Ambassadors, 1933-1964” when he will present on his most recent published book.

The final Lecture Series presentation will be held on April 2, titled “A Night with the Writers,” with special guests poet Craig Paulenich and playwright Kelly Bancroft.

All presentations will begin at 5:30 p.m. and be held in Lecture Hall 223. For more information, contact the Penn State Shenango Academic Affairs Office at 724-983-2825.