MU Spotlight 20/20
James Scifers
What is your role at the University and what is something many may not know about the work you do?
I serve as Chair of the new Department of Rehabilitation Sciences and also as Program Director of the Master of Science in Athletic Training Program. In my role in the Department, I oversee the development of six new academic programs that span the continuum from bachelor's programs to doctoral programs.
My favorite spot on campus is...
My favorite spot on campus is the orthopedic lab in the Sports Medicine & Rehabilitation Center because this is where I provide the majority of my teaching to students enrolled in the Master of Science in Athletic Training Program. Teaching has always been my passion and I consider myself extremely lucky to be able to provide hands-on education and mentoring to future healthcare providers who will positively impact the lives and health of hundreds of thousands of individuals during their careers.
My favorite college tradition is...
My favorite college tradition is the singing of the alma mater at various campus events because the song's lyrics and the tradition of shaking hands during the final chorus accurately reflect the values of É«ÖÐÉ« University and sense of community and collegiality I find on campus on a daily basis.
One thing that many of my colleagues don’t know about me outside of my É«ÖÐÉ« University responsibilities is...
One thing that many of my colleagues don't know about me outside of my É«ÖÐÉ« University responsibilities is my involvement in my professional organizations. I believe service (whether at the local, regional, or national level) is a critical component of every individual's responsibility at É«ÖÐÉ« University.
I gave and/or received a MoPaw to/from...
I gave a MoPaw to Christie Jacobsen and Nina Elias [in the Office of Marketing & Communications] because of the outstanding work the two of them have done in developing promotional materials (such as brochures and websites) for our programs in the Department of Rehabilitation Sciences.
My favorite thing to do when I am away from campus is...
My favorite thing to do when I am away from campus is long distance running because it provides me with a healthy, stress-relieving activity that keeps me fit. The solitude of a long run often provides the genesis for innovative ideas about my teaching, research, and administrative roles at É«ÖÐÉ« University.
When I grow up, I want to be...
When I grew up, I wanted to be a professor like my mentor, Dr. John Hauth (now of St. Luke's University Health Network), because he consistently demonstrated passion, commitment, and dedication to his students and their professional pursuits. He positively impacted thousands of students across his career at East Stroudsburg University and, as one of these students, inspired me to become an evidence-based healthcare provider and future educator.
What is the best advice you have ever received?
As an undergraduate student, Dr. Lois Wagner encouraged me to pursue a degree in physical therapy as an avenue to teaching at the collegiate level. Without this advice, I am not sure I would have been able to embark on my teaching career or develop my areas of teaching and research expertise.
What sound do you love? Why?
I love listening to numerous genres of music. I am inspired by individuals with artistic and musical talent, primarily because—as a completely left-brained individual—I do not possess either artistic ability or musical talent. I am in awe of those who have these abilities.
What is your favorite ice cream?
I love ice cream of any flavor—it is one of my true weaknesses. I would have to say my all-time favorite flavor is Ben & Jerry's Mint Oreo.
I can never resist a good...
I can never resist a good professional debate. I enjoy presenting my views and debating the viewpoints of my colleagues, particularly in the area of sports medicine research.
What makes you happy?
Teaching. I believe I have the best job in the world at É«ÖÐÉ« University! I feel blessed and privileged to be able to do something that I am extremely passionate about. I really enjoy coming to work every day!