Jennifer Renshaw, OTD, OTR/L, OTA/L

Biography

From a young age, Dr. Jennifer Renshaw knew she was called to a career in occupational therapy. Having personally benefited from occupational therapy services, she developed a deep appreciation for the profession and the transformative impact it can have on individuals and families. She began pursuing her dream at Cape Fear Community College in 1998, earning her Occupational Therapy Assistant degree in 2000.

Following graduation, Dr. Renshaw’s passion for pediatrics flourished as she served children and families in public school and community-based settings throughout rural southeastern North Carolina. In these roles, she delivered client-centered, play-based interventions designed to empower children and positively influence the communities she served.
After 11 years of clinical practice, Dr. Renshaw advanced her education at Belmont University and Rocky Mountain University of Health Professions. These experiences strengthened her clinical foundation, expanded her leadership perspective, and ultimately guided her back to where her professional journey began.

In 2012, Dr. Renshaw returned to Cape Fear Community College as Director of the Occupational Therapy Assistant program. As an educator and leader, she is committed to evidence-based practice in pediatrics, assistive technology, mental health, leadership development, and scholarship focused on transforming healthcare. She is passionate about mentoring students, fostering creativity and collaboration in the classroom, and supporting both personal and professional growth.

Drawing from her real-life clinical and personal experiences, as both an OTA and OT, Dr. Renshaw brings energy, purpose, and vision to her work. She encourages students to embrace client-centered care, emerge as leaders and advocates for the profession, and pursue their careers with enthusiasm and integrity. Inspired by her own educational journey, she reminds students to think positively, trust the process, and know their dreams can be achieved. As George Eliot wisely said, “It is never too late to be what you might have been.”

A proud Wilmington native, Dr. Renshaw enjoys coastal living, porch swinging, sunsets, travel adventures, embracing simple pleasures, and spending meaningful time with her family and pets.

Publications

• Renshaw, J.K. (2023, October 17). A laugh a day. Go2 for Lung Cancer. https://go2.org/blog/a-laugh-a-day/
• Renshaw, J.K. (2023, June 28). Finding your calm. Go2 For Lung Cancer. https://go2.org/blog/finding-your-calm/
• Renshaw, J.K. (2023, March 2). Clearing the brain fog: Eight ways to improve memory and thinking. Go2 For Lung Cancer. https://go2.org/blog/clearing-the-brain-fog-eight-ways-to-improve-memory-and-thinking/
• Renshaw, J.K. (2023, January 28). Finding your calm. Go2 For Lung Cancer. https://go2.org/blog/energy-conservation-turning-on-your-energy/