champions place news
the Perfect Pairing: Champions Place + GSU OT
july 2025
You know how some things just "go together" - like a hamburger, fries and a coke? That's the best way to describe the relationship between Champions Place and Georgia State University's Department of Occupational Therapy. The partnership has blossomed in so many ways. The moment we met Karen McWathers, a Clinical Assistant Professor for the program at GSU, we knew something special was about to happen. It all started when the students from their Community-Based Practice class coordinated fun events for the residents, like Pizza Making and a Halloween party. **Add a sentence that talks about impact and hearing it through the quotes below.
“At Champion’s Place, GSU has found a unique opportunity. Our students truly love Champion's Place. I've been telling students from the first time I walked in that Champion's Place is something special. You can feel it in the air! The residents at Champions Place have taught students invaluable lessons and skills which they will carry forwards into their future careers.”
— Karen McWaters, Clinical Assistant Professor - Department Of Occupational Therapy
"One of my favorite parts about being a caregiver is trying to encourage the residents to have autonomy and independence. I have gained a new perspective to challenges that they face when going out into the community."
– Madison Cetrulo, GSU OT Student (Works as caregiver at Champions Place)
"I had the chance to volunteer at Champions Place during our Community-Based Practice class last fall, and I knew right away it was a place I wanted to stay connected to. That experience made a lasting, positive impact on me, so this summer I started working as a caregiver—and it’s already been such an amazing experience"
— Lauren Thiede, GSU OT Student (Works as caregiver and volunteered at Champions Place in GSU Community Based Practice class held at Champions Place)
Two GSU OT students, Kaitlyn and Keanah live at Champions Place, receiving free rent in exchange for working on staff providing oversight at Champions Place.
Read about their experience living at Champions Place so far…
"As a student studying to be an occupational therapist, the hands-on experience I get from living and working with the residents is invaluable. Living alongside the residents has opened my eyes to the critical role accessibility plays in promoting independence and giving individuals a sense of autonomy." – Keanah Santiago, live-in GSU OT Student
"This experience has had a profound impact on my journey toward becoming an Occupational Therapist. The welcoming environment I encountered from the very beginning made me feel at home, and over time, I have built life-long relationships with both the residents and the staff. Champions Place has become my home, and I sincerely hope to remain here for the remainder of my program." – Kaitlyn, live-in GSU OT Student