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Professor Alex Lopez Receives Awards for Community Service
Mental Health Educational Award Recognizes His Contributions to At-Risk Youth and People with Disabilities
New York, N.Y. - Alex Lopez, Assistant Professor of Occupational Therapy at Touro College School of Health Sciences, was the recipient of honorary awards and recognitions recently for his initiatives and contributions to several Long Island organizations that provide services for at-risk youth and people with disabilities.
At a 50th anniversary gala, Prof. Lopez was presented with the Mental Health Educational Award by State Senator Thomas Croci (R- Third District, N.Y.) on behalf of Adelante of Suffolk County −a multiservice community resource center− and Southside Hospital of Bay Shore.
Prof. Lopez is experienced in psychosocial practice and pediatric physical rehabilitation and has developed programs on treating Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) through sensory integration and occupational therapy (OT). He is the Founder and Executive Director of Inclusive Sports and Fitness, Inc. an alternative after-school sports program for children with disabilities.
“The award from Adelante is special because Adelante is a significant force for therapeutic justice, health promotion, and wellness for under-represented communities,” said Prof. Lopez, adding, “I was humbled by their recognition and proud to be part of the efforts and contributions they have made to the mental health community in Suffolk County.”
Prof. Lopez also received an award and acknowledgment from the Town of Islip Youth Bureau for his work as Founder and Executive Director of PAR FORE, an integrated gang prevention mentor program utilizing OT, cognitive behaviorism, social justice, and psychology to serve children and teens in New York, New Jersey, and Utah. He is currently working with Touro to establish another chapter in Nevada.
A graduate of Kean University and New England Law School, Prof. Lopez is a licensed occupational therapist, an attorney, and an Army veteran. He has provided pro bono therapy and advocacy services for Adelante and Suffolk Independent Living Organization since 2009.
Prof. Stephanie Dapice-Wong, Chair of the Occupational Therapy Dept. at Touro College, lauded Prof. Lopez for his formidable contributions to public service. “I am pleased and proud that Dr. Lopez's service and important contributions have been honored with these awards,” she said.
