Biography

At an early age Jennifer Renshaw knew her dream job would be a career in occupational therapy. After many years of receiving occupational therapy herself, Jennifer began her journey at Cape Fear Community College in 1998 and graduated with an OT Assistant Degree in 2000. After graduation, her passion to work in pediatric settings blossomed in public school and community-based settings in rural Southeastern North Carolina communities. Her experience in these settings provided her with the opportunity to provide client-centered, play-based interventions while positively influencing the lives of children and families.

After 11 years of practice, Jennifer moved forward with continuing her education at Belmont University in Nashville, TN and Rocky Mountain University of Health Professions, in Provo, UT. These advanced degree programs in Occupational Therapy provided Jennifer with opportunities to build on her foundations and experiences, while also leading her back to her roots at Cape Fear Community College.

Dr. Jennifer Renshaw transitioned to the academic setting as the Director of the Occupational Therapy Assistant program at Cape Fear Community College in 2012. Throughout her career and currently as an educator, Dr. Renshaw has focused on evidenced-based practice in pediatrics, assistive technology, leadership endeavors, and scholarship in transformation of healthcare. She has a passion for helping students reach their educational goals while cultivating a creative learning environment, shared learning experiences, overall personal and professional growth. Her experiences as an OTA and OT drive her goal-oriented energy in the classroom and behind the scenes as a program director. Her vision is for students in the CFCC OTA program is to embrace client-centered care, shine as leaders and advocates for the profession of OT, and reflect a love for the career they have chosen. From her own educational experiences, Dr. Renshaw encourages students to think positively, trust the process, and know they can go from here to anywhere. In the words of George Eliot, “It is never too late to be what you might have been.”

Dr. Renshaw is a local Wilmingtonian. She is devoted to porch swinging, sunsets, travel adventures, coastal living, and time spent at home with her family and pets.

Education

• Associate in Applied Science (A.A.S.), Occupational Therapy Assistant, Cape Fear Community College
• Master of Science in Occupational Therapy (MSOT), Belmont University
• Doctor of Occupational Therapy (OTD), Rocky Mountain University of Health Professions