Pathways Staff

Sarah Kerndt

“Having accumulated knowledge from working in a variety of industries it is indescribably fulfilling to be able to apply these skills at a not for profit organization that strives to enhance the lives of children. It is inspirational to see our children’s determination as they, while running, playing, and laughing, accomplish great feats.”

Linda Rooke, BScPT

EDUCATION:
Queen’s University, Canada, BScPT

“I enjoy connecting with children of all ages, young adults, and their families as I accompany them on their journey to greater physical independence. At Pathways, I feel very fortunate to have found such a dynamic, professionally stimulating environment to continue my professional growth as a pediatric physical therapist.”

Angelica Barraza, OTR/L

EDUCATION:
University of Texas Medical Branch, BS

“Early in my career, I discovered a love for collaborating with children and families, helping tap their spirit and uncover their potential. To this day I continue to embrace what I witnessed as a volunteer—a dedication to improving the quality of life through engaging and meaningful activities.”

Anne Mohan, OTR/L

EDUCATION:
IFBE DIE SCHULE, Germany, National Board Certification

“I love working with children because their strength, creativity and untainted view of humanity inspires me. Working closely with their families creates a better understanding of the child's condition and the family's needs and concerns, and allows me to work within my holistic view of patient care.”

Daisy Tan, PT, C/NDT

EDUCATION:
University of Illinois at Chicago, BS

“I am inspired by Pathways' commitment and continued search to bring innovative programs to the clients. I am happy to be part of this organization and strive to provide quality service.”

Danielle Davis, DPT

EDUCATION:
University of Illinois at Chicago, DPT; Marquette University, BA

“Growing up, I was fortunate enough to experience, through my youngest brother, how therapists can impact the lives of children and their families. It looked like magic how they could help my brother meet new milestones and include me and my siblings throughout the process. Today, helping children and their families to achieve their goals is one of the most rewarding parts of coming into work.”

Heidi Sloan, MA, CCC-SLP, C/NDT

EDUCATION:
Northwestern University, MA; University of Maryland, College Park, BA

“Working alongside occupational and physical therapists, I continue to expand my knowledge of assessment and treatment of infants and children with speech, language, and feeding disorders. It is both rewarding and fulfilling to assist children in reaching their full potential. ”

Jacqueline Jensen, OTR/L

EDUCATION:
University of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, BS

“I have a special interest in sensory integration and autism, and I believe that family education and involvement contributes to a great deal of growth and success.”

Jennifer Cohen, PT, DPT

EDUCATION:
Rosalind Franklin University DPT, Bradley University BS

“As a physical therapist, I love that every day is different. I get to work with kids of all ages (birth to almost 30) doing a variety of fun activities and games. My job is challenging and very rewarding and I am always happy to get up and go to work in the mornings.”

Karen Dilfer, OTR/L

EDUCATION:
Bachelors of Science degree in occupational therapy Calvin College Masters of Science of Occupational Therapy (MSOT)

"It is a joy to practice in a clinic with so much positive energy. My clients and colleagues constantly challenge me to be an excellent therapist and have lots of fun everyday."

Kathleen Palace Barnard, OTR/L

EDUCATION:
University of Illinois, BA; University of Illinois, BS

“I really enjoy the collaboration with other professionals and with families. I see the value of working closely in a team with other skilled professionals to achieve the highest functional outcome for children.”

Lisa Rubin, MA, CCC-SLP

EDUCATION:
Northwestern University, MA; Bates College, BS

“Pathways is an ideal work setting because it allows me the opportunity to work in a multidisciplinary pediatric clinic and collaborate with other speech-language pathologists on a daily basis.”

Mark Coman

“My interest in life has always been human nature and the human potential. It is a pleasure to be around all the wonderful people that work at and come to Pathways.”

Ronna DeKoven, OTR/L, C/NDT

EDUCATION:
Ohio State University, BS

“Since June of 1991, Pathways Center has afforded me ongoing professional development as well as the ability to think beyond the box in pursuing what is new and exciting in the field of pediatric therapy. It is energizing on a daily basis to collaborate and problem solve with my colleagues and the families. Seeing change and growth that allows a child enjoy life and be successful in what they pursue is extremely rewarding.”

Shruti Joshi, PT, MS

EDUCATION:
University of Illinois at Chicago, MS; Manipal Academy of Higher Education, India, Bachelor of Physical Therapy

“I decided to join Pathways Center because of the focus on always trying to improve the quality of services for clients and the unique setting in which we work, where research relevant to our clients can be designed and implemented and the results applied in an individual and measurable manner to best serve our populations.”

Barbara Morin

“As Family Services Coordinator, I am the initial contact for families seeking services for their child(ren). I guide families through the intake process with relaxed dialogue and a listening ear. I love to talk, love to listen, and love to share with others my gift for caring. I am both a spokesperson for Pathways and an advocate for the families seeking services at our Center. I’ve recently taken on the pleasure of planning our annual themed winter family party. This is a wonderful opportunity for me to step outside the intake box and use my creative expression to plan and execute a special event for our children and their families.”

Dawn Zerbicki

“I am honored to be part of such a great Center and it is a wonderful feeling knowing that we make a positive change in people’s lives.”

Donna Lesner

“I have always wanted to be part of an organization that is all about helping children reach their fullest potential. I love so many things about Pathways. I have built many relationships with the children and their families. Watching the children grow and work so hard to reach their goals has been an amazing experience. The staff here is warm, knowledgeable and dedicated.”

Jane Stefans

“It is a pleasure to come to work each day. What a wonderful group of people to work with and for.”

Lucy Hernandez

“I love knowing that with all that these families have going on I can try everyday to give them peace of mind financially.”

Marcy Pollard

“Working with the wonderful therapists and having the opportunity to grow with Pathways Center has been very rewarding.”

Samantha McBride

“I work with wonderful people and I love my job because I have a small part in something with a big outcome.”

Sarah Garlinger

“I chose Pathways because it is a way for me to do accounting in a setting that at the end of the day is all about helping kids.”

Tamika Boyd

“What I love about my job is seeing all of the kids come into the Center excited for their session.”

Felicia Kurkowski

“I really enjoy the face-to-face interaction when educating parents and customers about the importance of early detection, intervention and tummy time. As I videotape and edited children’s footage at Pathways Center, I get great satisfaction from watching their progress as they achieve their goals.”

Joanne Meyer

“The support of the Pathways To Worship program helped me achieve inclusion for my son at my house of faith. It is a privilege to help other families, clergy and worshipping communities come together to create accessible and inclusive congregations where every member is valued and welcomed to participate.”

Kathy O'Brien

“My position at Pathways Awareness gives me the opportunity to help other parents who have questions about therapy, who don’t know where to go for resources or just need someone to talk to who has been through a similar situation. I feel that they can benefit from my experience since I have 'walked the walk.'"

Tiffany Cruz

“I feel very fortunate to have found an organization and a team so dedicated to a cause like Pathways. Working at Pathways has allowed me to combine two of my favorite things, graphic design and helping young people.”