Heather Shepherd
OT, MSc
PhD Student

Heather is a PhD candidate in the Sport Injury Prevention Research Centre under the supervision of Dr. Carolyn Emery. Heather completed both her BScH in psychology and her MSc in occupational therapy at Queen’s University and she is currently a registered occupational therapist. Heather’s area of research aims to understand and support middle and high school students’ return to school following a concussion. Heather partners with students and educators to develop return to school supports that are relevant and practical to implement. Her interest stemmed from her own experience with concussion, in addition to her clinical work as an occupational therapist.
Heather enjoys coaching power wheelchair hockey, hiking, canoeing, and reading. Also, she is passionate about promoting mental health and wellness.
Awards and Distinctions
2022 Graduate College Scholar
2021 The Jean Royce Fellowship
2021 Alberta Children’s Hospital Research Institute Graduate Scholarship
2021 Faculty of Kinesiology Leadership Award
2021 Faculty of Kinesiology Publication Award
2021 Graduate College Scholar
2021 Scholar Award, Canadian Traumatic Brain Injury Research Consortium
2021 Faculty of Kinesiology Presentation Award
2020 Alberta Graduate Student Travel Award
2018 Vi Riddell Paediatric Rehabilitation Research Program
2014 Distinction
2013 Robert Tyre Jones Jr. Scholarship