A Model Mentor: Virginia Scardina, MA, MEd, OTR/L, FAOTA

The purpose of this study was to document the influence Virginia (Ginny) Scardina, MA, MEd, OTR/L, FAOTA, occupational therapist extraordinaire, had on individuals whom she mentored. Scardina's influence was documented in a former unpublished qualitative study that conducted interviews with two of her former colleagues and six former students. This study, through the voices of five original participants and a second layer of data analysis, identified Scardina as a model mentor who was a master teacher. As a master teacher Scardina believed that, "You've got to teach to learn." Furthermore, Scardina, as a model mentor, facilitated growth in others by, "Bringing out the best," in them. Scardina's skills as a model mentor are discussed in relationship to the role of a mentor who supports, challenges others, and provides vision. Fieldwork and academic educators can learn from Scardina while reflecting upon their own influence and role in mentoring others.