WMU News

Doctoral grad and faculty member given dissertation prize

June 21, 2000

KALAMAZOO -- A Western Michigan University faculty member who is a recent doctoral graduate has received an award from the University for the best dissertation on the topic of gerontology.

Dr. Debra Lindstrom Hazel, assistant professor of occupational therapy, was awarded the George and Beatrice Fisher Dissertation Prize. The prize, which comes with a $700 award, was established in 1999 by the Fishers, both alumni of WMU, to promote greater knowledge of the aging process and a higher quality of life for the elderly. It is awarded to the WMU doctoral candidate who is the author of the best dissertation on a topic in the field of gerontology. This is the second year the award has been given.

Hazel received her doctoral degree in medical sociology from WMU in April. Her dissertation explored the "Social Factors Related to Recovery after Hip Fracture." She has been awarded several grants for her research on topics including rehabilitation, disability, sense of coherence and problem-based learning.

Hazel earned a bachelor's degree in education at Northern Illinois University and a master's degree in occupational therapy from WMU. She joined the WMU faculty in 1992 after working as a special education teacher in Illinois and as an occupational therapist for several healthcare facilities. She is the daughter of Violet Gambrel of Joliet , Ill., and the late Leslie W. Lindstrom.

The George and Beatrice Fisher Gerontology Dissertation Prize is administered by The Graduate College at WMU. For more information, contact The Graduate College at (616) 387-3579.

Media contact: Marie Lee, 616 387-8400, marie.lee@wmich.edu


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