Dr. Deanner Ottinger is an Associate Professor of Occupational Therapy at Milligan University, where she also serves as Chair of the OT Admissions Committee and as a mentor for new faculty. She specializes in working with adults who have neurological conditions such as Parkinson’s disease, strokes, or multiple sclerosis. As a Certified Aging in Place Specialist (CAPS), she finds immense fulfillment in performing home evaluations to help families make their homes safer, enabling them to age in place with dignity and comfort.

Dr. Ottinger is actively involved in groundbreaking research alongside Tracy Skinner, OTR/L, at Encompass Health Kingsport. Together with her students, she is conducting a pilot study to develop protocols and assess the efficacy of a revolutionary device designed to restore movement in impaired limbs following a stroke. This innovative work holds the potential to transform rehabilitation outcomes and improve lives.

Her contributions to the field of occupational therapy include two notable publications. The first, co-authored with Aliceson Bales, PT, appeared in the Tennessee Farmers Cooperative Magazine (September 2021) under the title “A Pre-hab Perspective: How to Keep Farmers Doing What They Love, Longer.” The second, based on research conducted with her students, will be featured in OT Practice Magazine this year and is titled “Family Caregivers of Older Adults: Their Stories and How OT Can Help.”

At Milligan, Dr. Ottinger finds joy in the deep, meaningful relationships she builds with her students, often welcoming them as extended family during holidays and beyond. She incorporates a tradition in her classroom called “Tell Me Something Good,” where students share positive experiences as a reminder of God’s presence in their lives. She cherishes hearing from students even after graduation, celebrating their continued successes and growth.
Dr. Ottinger’s faith journey began during her college years, as a first-generation Christian. Without a foundation in church, she relied on spiritual mentorship and intentional friendships to nurture her understanding and faith. Now, she is continually amazed by God’s love and patience as she navigates her roles as a wife, mother, and professional. She values the supportive Christian community at Milligan, which offers encouragement, accountability, and a shared commitment to faith.

Education:
BS, Applied Human Sciences, East Tennessee State University, 2006
MS, Occupational Therapy, Milligan University, 2009
OTD, University of St. Augustine for Health Sciences