Education
PhD in Recreational Therapy, Clemson University
MBA, Masters in Business Adminstration, Penn State University
BS in Therapeutic Recreation, University of Maryland
Scholarly Contributions
Dr. Gregory's research has focused on functional outcomes associated with community reintegration and Recreational Therapy interventions for individuals who have sustained traumatic brain injuries. She has also examined the influence of an intentionally designed peer support camp on the emotional health and well-being of siblings of children with cancer.
Additional scholarly activities include adjunct teaching, clinical mentorship, Professional involvement on the NCTRC BOD, presentations at national and international conferences, development of evidence-based clinical care protocols, interprofessional collaboration, policy development, and promoting the value of recreational therapy in a variety of healthcare settings.
Featured Publications
Gregory, D., Van Puymbroeck, Crower, B., Garst, B., & Amylon, M.
(2025). The influence of a peer support camp on fostering resilience, posttraumatic
growth, and quality of life in siblings of children with cancer. Journal of Park and
Recreation Administration. doi:10.18666/JPRA-2025-12833
Gregory, D., Van Puymbroeck, M., Crowe, B., Garst, B., & Amylon, M. (2022). "The Lived Experience of Siblings of Children With Cancer Who Attended a Peer Support Camp in the United States." Qualitative Health Research, 32(9), 1541–1553. https://doi.org/10.1177/10497323221095478
Gregory, D. L., Hawkins, B. L., & Chan, L. (2018). Functional independence 6 months to 5 years after traumatic brain injury: Opportunities for recreational therapy. American Journal of Recreation Therapy, 17(1), 29–36. https://doi.org/10.5055/ajrt.2018.0152
Leadership & Professional Service
Dr. Gregory’s leadership and professional association involvement has included serving as the Employer Representative on the NCTRC board of Directors, participation on professional commitees, and manuscript reviewer for a variety of journals.
Professional Awards & Recognition
• National Council for Therapeutic Recreation Certification - Excellence in Leadership and Distinguished Service
• Clemson University - Brett A. Wright Award for Graduate Student Achievement
• American Therapeutic Recreation Association - Best Research to Practice Poster
• NIH Clinical Center Directors Award - Education and Training
• NIH Clinical Center Director’s Award – Science
• NIH Clinical Center Director’s Award – Strategic Initiatives