St. Catherine University, a women-oriented educational institution in St. Paul, Minnesota, has announced the promotion of six faculty members to the rank of full professor. Four of these promotions went to women.
Jennifer Biggs was named a full professor in the doctor of physical therapy program, which she directs. Her research focuses on acute care, cardiopulmonary rehabilitation, and wound management. Dr. Biggs is a graduate of the University of Wisconsin-Madison, where she received a bachelor’s degree in physical therapy in 1997. She earned a master’s degree in public health administration and a Ph.D. in health services research, both from the School of Public Health at the University of Minnesota.
Paula Furey was promoted to professor of biology. Dr. Furey has expertise and interests that span phycology (algae), invertebrate biology, taxonomy, biodiversity, and conservation biology. Her research focuses on the ecology of aquatic ecosystems (lakes, rivers, streams, wetwalls), especially benthic (bottom) communities and algal assemblages. Her goal is to find better ways to monitor, protect and predict changes in aquatic ecosystems.
Stephanie de Sam Lazaro was promoted to full professor. She is the Interprofessional Learning Director for the Institute of Simulation and Interprofessional Learning. Her teaching focuses on the occupational therapy role and process with children, adolescents, and their families, evidence-based practice in occupational therapy and interprofessional healthcare, and graduate student advising through master’s and doctoral projects. She holds a bachelor’s degree in occupational science, a master’s degree in occupational therapy, and an occupational therapy doctorate, all from St. Catherine University.
Rachel Neiwert was appointed a full professor of history. She is an expert in modern British history, with a particular emphasis on children and education in the British Empire. She is also conducting research on the historical context of racial covenants and housing segregation in Ramsey County, Minnesota. Professor Neiwert is a graduate of George Fox University in Newberg, Oregon, where she majored in history. She holds a master’s degree in history from Georgia State University and a Ph.D. in history from the University of Minnesota.


