Education
BS in Recreation with emphasis in Therapeutic Recreation - Calvin College
Masters in Public Administration with emphasis in Non-Profit Health Care- Grand Valley State University
Doctorate in Health Administration - Central Michigan University
Scholarly Contributions
Literature: co-author on 2 publications, 6 book chapters, 3 monographs, 25 peer reviewed publications - TRJ, AJRT, Journal of Poetry Therapy, WORK, Journal of Leisure Research, Journal of Interprofessional Education and Practice, Annual in TR, World Leisure Journal
Featured Publications
Schultz, Y., & DeVries, D. (2025). Recreational Therapists Perceptions of Treating Mental Health Conditions with a Primary Diagnosis of Physical Disability. Therapeutic Recreation Journal, 59(2), 241-261.
Binkley, B., & DeVries, D. (2025). Music as a Social Intervention for Children with Autism. American Journal of Recreation Therapy, 23(4). Doi:10.5055/ajrt.0304
DeVries, D., O’Leary, E., & Wahl, N. (2025). Shared reading with older adults who have dementia: A pilot study. Therapeutic Recreation Journal, 59(1), 94-117.
Leadership & Professional Service
ATRA Past President, Co-chair ATRA Coverage Team, past chair of Federal Public Policy, past chair of Geriatric Treatment Network, past conference chair, Director of Advocacy & Legislative Affairs, Older Adult Task Force;
NCTRC exam writing committee for 2 terms;
founding member of Virginia TRA;
member MTRA, NJ/EPA;
Board of Directors of The Ability Collective of Barry County;
Advisory Board of The Oaks of Byron Center;
past Maria's Place Advisory Committee;
CMS Technical Expert Panel;
Alzheimer's Alliance
Professional Awards & Recognition
Outstanding Faculty Member 2023 - Grand Valley State University Office of Student Affairs
Outstanding Alumni Nominee 2022 - Grand Valley State University
Undergraduate Faculty Mentor Nominee 2022 - Grand Valley State University College of Health Professions
Manuscript of the Year Award 2021 - National Academy of Recreational Therapists
Advisor Excellence Award - Certificate of Recognition 2017 - Grand Valley State University
Graduated Magna Cum Laude 2012 - Central Michigan University
Frank N. Brasile Clinician of the Year 2002 - American Therapeutic Recreation Association
Pi Alpha Alpha Honor Society 2001 - Public Administration National Honor Society