Profile

Dr. Justin Williams is a new faculty member at Mars Hill University, just starting as an assistant professor of allied health sciences in the fall semester of 2023. Originally from Faith, North Carolina, Justin has lived in South Carolina and Virginia as well over the last 15 years. He now resides in Weaverville as he just recently made the move to Western North Carolina to teach full-time at Mars Hill University.

Justin completed his undergraduate studies and earned a Bachelor of Science degree in biological sciences from the University of North Carolina at Wilmington in 2005, with concentrations in pre-medical sciences and microbiology. Justin then attended Lenior-Rhyne University and graduated with a Master of Science degree in occupational therapy in 2010. He then became a national board certified/registered occupational therapist and began his career working with the geriatric population in a continuing care retirement community in Greenville, South Carolina. After a year of working, Justin was promoted to Director of Rehabilitation and then decided to pursue a doctoral degree. He graduated from Chatham University with a Doctor of Occupational Therapy and Rehabilitation Science degree in 2013.

As a doctor of occupational therapy with over 14 years of experience and a demonstrated history of working in the healthcare/rehabilitation industry, Justin has obtained extensive knowledge in skilled nursing, home health, inpatient/hospitals, senior living communities, and PACE programs including healthcare operations management and leadership, healthcare consulting, and expertise in clinical outcomes, strategies, and education. Justin has a passion for dementia care which led him to become a Certified Dementia Care Specialist and a Certified Dementia Practitioner with a primary focus on providing exemplary care to all involved with individuals affected by brain change and neurocognitive deficits.

With a thorough knowledge and comprehension of the healthcare arena and challenges and obstacles throughout the lifespan experienced by individuals, family members, loved ones, healthcare professionals, etc., Justin found an innate drive to dedicate his career to providing quality education to anyone in need. He developed this passion for educating others which is what brought him to Mars Hill University. Justin loves the Mars Hill University atmosphere and culture. He also has an immense love for the Appalachian Mountains, nature, and just being able to teach in a tight-knit, welcoming community.

Justin’s philosophy is that we must support, motivate, and engage students as they prepare to become allied health professionals so that one day, as healthcare practitioners, that they truly make a difference in the world. He looks forward to being a faculty member here at Mars Hill University for many years to come and is proud to be a lion!