Jillian Masciantonio, MOT, OTR/L

Bio

I am a registered and licensed occupational therapist in Pennsylvania with diverse clinical experience
across inpatient rehabilitation, acute care and outpatient upper-extremity rehabilitation. I spent three
years at UPMC East, working in both full-time and casual roles within inpatient rehabilitation while
also providing coverage in acute care. During this time, I evaluated and treated individuals with a
wide range of diagnoses, including stroke, traumatic brain injury, spinal cord injury, orthopedic
conditions, generalized deconditioning, and other neurological disorders.
I later transitioned to outpatient rehabilitation within the Allegheny Health Network, where my practice
focused on the evaluation and treatment of orthopedic and neurological conditions affecting the hand
and upper extremity. My clinical responsibilities also included the design and fabrication of custom
orthoses/splints to support functional recovery.
In addition to my role at Seton Hill University, I am the Founder and Chief Executive Officer of the
Making Strides Foundation, an equine-assisted services nonprofit founded in 2022 and located in
Jeannette, PA. Making Strides provides occupational therapy, speech therapy, adaptive horseback
riding, camps and group programming for children and adults with disabilities.

Outside of work, I enjoy spending time with my husband, two young sons, and extended family. I
treasure time on the family farm, horseback riding, days at the lake, and traveling whenever I can.
Beyond raising my family, one of my greatest sources of pride has been helping grow the mission of
Making Strides. I have a passion for creating programming centered on disability advocacy, inclusion,
and community engagement. I find fulfillment in nonprofit leadership and in creating opportunities that
make a meaningful difference in the lives of others. I look forward to bringing these experiences into
the classroom and encouraging students to embrace their strengths and interests and create their
own path in the ever-evolving field of occupational therapy.

Education

Master of Occupational Therapy (MOT)- Shenandoah University (Winchester, VA) 2017
B.S., Biology- Saint Vincent College (Latrobe, PA) 2014

Certifications

American Hippotherapy Association Treatment Principles Part 1 A + B Completed

Organizations

American Hippotherapy Association
American Occupational Therapy Association 
Central Westmoreland Career and Technology Center Occupational Advisory Committee Member
The Professional Association of Therapeutic Horsemanship International