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Kay Scott
Associate Vice President
Professional Background
Kay Scott is an accomplished health care professional with over 20 years of dedicated experience in program design and implementation within the fields of HIV/AIDS and behavioral health. With a robust track record of developing and administering impactful programs, Kay has become a highly respected figure in the health care sector. Her role as the Associate Vice President of Behavioral Health at St. John's Riverside Hospital underscores her commitment to advancing mental health services and delivering essential care to communities in need.
Throughout her impressive career, Kay has demonstrated an unwavering commitment to improving the lives of individuals affected by health challenges. Her experience as the Founder and Co-Director of Paw Prints On Our Hearts, Inc., highlights her innovative spirit and dedication to integrating animal-assisted interventions into therapeutic practices. By harnessing the healing power of interactions with therapy animals, Kay has explored groundbreaking ways to support mental health, particularly for those who have experienced trauma.
In addition to her administrative leadership roles at St. John's Riverside Hospital, where she has served in capacities ranging from Assistant Vice President to Associate Vice President - Administration, Kay has consistently focused on developing programs that are responsive to the evolving needs of patients. Her ability to navigate the complexities of health care systems and advocate for effective treatment options has driven positive change in the communities she serves.
Education and Achievements
Kay's educational background is rooted in social work and mental health, having pursued her Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) at the Graduate School of Social Services at Fordham University. This academic achievement has equipped her with the theoretical frameworks and research skills necessary to develop evidence-based programs in health care. Further, her Master of Social Work (MS) degree from Columbia University in the City of New York provided her with a strong foundation in clinical practice and community engagement.
Kay's extensive expertise extends to areas such as program administration, grant writing, and animal-assisted interventions, making her a versatile asset in the fields of mental health and therapeutic programming. Her commitment to ethical considerations in therapy dog work is notable and reflects her dedication to ensuring that interventions are humane and beneficial for both clients and animals alike.
Notable Contributions
Throughout her career, Kay has held various significant roles that have contributed to the advancement of health care in behavioral health and HIV/AIDS treatment areas. As an Adjunct Professor at Fordham University, she has had the opportunity to mentor and teach future generations of social workers, imparting her knowledge and insights into effective program development and therapeutic practices.
Kay's commitment to the field goes beyond her immediate professional responsibilities, as she actively engages in research that assesses the impact of animal-assisted therapy for individuals who have survived potentially traumatic events. This research not only enhances understanding within the field but also provides invaluable insights that can shape future therapeutic approaches.
In her leadership roles, she has advocated for comprehensive care solutions, emphasizing the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration in addressing the needs of patients. Her experience as a Mental Health Social Worker at Hudson River Health Center and as a Social Worker at AIDS Related Community Services has further enriched her perspective on client-centered care and the multifaceted challenges faced by those in need of support.
Kay Scott's expansive career is marked by a commitment to service, innovation, and leadership in health care. Her specialty in program administration and grant writing ensures that vital resources are directed toward enhancing access to care for vulnerable populations. With a focus on ethical and humane practices, as well as the integration of animal-assisted interventions, Kay continues to make a meaningful impact in the health care landscape.