SMIL Info

Kristen Pickett, PH.D.

Dr. Kristen Pickett is an Associate Professor in the Occupational Therapy Program in the Department of Kinesiology at the University of Wisconsin – Madison. She completed her B.S. in Biology at the University of Wisconsin – Platteville and her Master’s and Doctoral degrees from the University of Minnesota – Twin Cities. After focusing doctoral work on the use of f-MRI to examine individuals with idiopathic focal hand dystonia, she continued on to Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis, Missouri, and completed a postdoctoral experience in the Program in Physical Therapy and the Movement Disorders section of the Department of Neurology. During her postdoc, she focused on exercise interventions for individuals with Parkinson disease and gait and balance characteristics of young people with Wolfram syndrome. Her current focus is on the use of collaborative and community-based research methods aimed at positively impacting meaningful health outcomes for older adults in rural communities, especially those with Parkinson disease.  Additionally, she partners with UW Health Carbone Cancer Center and Northwestern University to examine physical activity focused interventions for individuals who have experienced a cancer diagnosis.

Sarah Zurawski, OTD, OTR/L

Sarah teaches in the UW–Madison’s Occupational Therapy program, focusing on pediatrics and professional skills. She received her undergraduate degree in Occupational Therapy from UW–Madison in 2002 and her master’s in special education from UW-Whitewater in 2010. Sarah spent most of her clinical career working as a school-based occupational therapist where she provided services designed to support children’s participation in school related activities. Sarah has worked at the Waisman Center in the Autism and Developmental Disabilities Clinic and in home health care. She has a lifelong passion for working with people of all ages, and has been a personal care assistant to over ten elderly clients over the course of twenty years.
Sarah received her post professional doctorate degree in occupational therapy from UW–Madison in 2020. She joined Dr. Pickett’s Sensory Motor Integration Lab to explore occupational therapy’s role in supporting the psychosocial, well-being, and mental health needs of individuals living with Parkinson disease.
She lives outside of Madison with her two children and husband. She is a huge Badger fan!

Dr. Laura Andrea Prieto

Dr. Laura Andrea Prieto is currently a Primary Care Postdoctoral Fellow in the Department of Family Medicine and Community Health working with Dr. Kristen Pickett in the Department of Kinesiology. She completed her B.S. in Exercise Science at Loyola University Chicago and her Master’s at Syracuse University. Dr. Prieto then earned her Ph.D. in Kinesiology at the University of Wisconsin–Madison with a concentration on Motor Control and Behavior and adapted physical activity. She joined Dr. Pickett’s lab to explore the physical activity experiences of Latine adults with Parkinson disease and their care partners with the goal of creating a physical activity intervention that is meaningful and impactful for this population.

Dr. Prieto is from Bogotá, Colombia, and grew up in Las Vegas, Nevada. She enjoys dancing, being outdoors, and having “asados” or cookouts with family and friends.

Anne is a research specialist/lab manager in the Sensory Motor Integration Lab. She completed her undergraduate degree at the University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire and has continued to her learning via numerous graduate level courses through St Thomas University, Silver Lake College, University of North Dakota and Colorado State. Anne joined the SMIL team in 2021 and has a passion for connecting with participants and assisting the SMIL team with their efforts to make a positive impact on the daily lives of rural, elderly, and those with Parkinson disease. She lives in Madison and has three grown daughters. In her free time, she loves to be outdoors, gather with friends and family, attend events at Overture Center for the Arts, and watch Badger and Packer football.

Vanessa is a part time research staff member working in the Physical Activity Epidemiology and the Sensory Motor Integration Labs. She earned a Master of Social Work degree from UW–Madison in 2007 and is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Clinical Substance Abuse Counselor. Vanessa’s career started in community mental health, so she is particularly interested in serving individuals to help forge resources, achieve life satisfaction and build a sense of belonging in their community. Outside of the lab, Vanessa owns a private mental health practice and works as a psychotherapist, case manager, and clinical supervisor. Her primary service is to older adults and individuals with chronic illness or disabilities, utilizing telehealth to access adults living in rural areas throughout the state of Wisconsin. Vanessa’s research interests include advocating for improved healthcare access and treatment for vulnerable adults living in under-resourced communities. Other research interests include whole body wellness including the connection among nutrition, physical activity, mental health and overall wellbeing.

David Qi

David is a Master’s student in the Kinesiology department and is joined into the SMIL lab to pursue a PhD degree at UW–Madison. He obtained his bachelor’s degree in Kinesiology, concentrating in Sports Medicine, from California Baptist University. Meanwhile, he worked with CBU Athletics in events management, specifically for the basketball teams. David’s research interests surround how orthopedic rehabilitation and various therapeutic interventions might be applied to treat Parkinson’s disease. He is enthusiastic about joining SMIL and learning from Dr. Pickett regarding the association between exercise and Parkinson’s. Outside of these, David enjoys watching and playing basketball, football, and soccer.

Katy is a graduate student in the Occupational Sciences program where she will receive her master’s degree and eventually her Ph.D. from the Department of Kinesiology. Before receiving her undergraduate degree in Kinesiology: Exercise and Movement Science at UW–Madison, she found Dr. Pickett’s lab where she completed her practicum coursework. She enjoyed the SMIL so much that she returned to UW–Madison in Fall 2023. Katy’s interests lie in the biomechanics of OT and the specifics of gait and balance, which really just means she’s a detail-oriented numbers person who enjoys the physics of the human body. She also cares deeply for rural populations and older adults, undoubtedly connected to her upbringing in Wautoma, WI and Hancock, WI as well as her time spent working in nursing homes and retirement facilities. When she finds time, Katy loves wandering around Madison by foot, bicycle, or skateboard, as well as exploring old and new art mediums, and finding new music to listen to.

Abby Bradfield

Abby is working on her PhD studies with Dr. Pickett in the Sensory Motor Integration Lab (SMIL) within the Department of Kinesiology at the University of Wisconsin–Madison. She completed her undergraduate degree and master’s degree at UW–Madison in rehabilitation psychology and kinesiology respectively. In 2018, she began working with Dr. Pickett and the SMIL team and loved the work so much that she never left! Her interests revolve around physical activity interventions, and how they can improve the quality of life in geriatric populations, more specifically underrepresented populations. Her career goals include completing her PhD in Kinesiology in the Occupational Science Track.

Michael Egan

Mike is a Ph.D. student in UW’s Department of Kinesiology. He completed his bachelor’s degree in athletic training and his doctorate in physical therapy both at Marquette University. Though he has a previously worked in sports medicine, Mike’s primary clinical background is in rehabilitation for individuals with neurologic conditions; he completed a neurologic physical therapy residency at University of Pittsburgh Medical Center and is board-certified as a Certified Neurology Specialist (NCS) through the American Physical Therapy Association (APTA). Mike is just getting started in the SMIL, his future research projects will likely be centered around exercise-based interventions for individuals with neurologic conditions. His future career goal is to teach rehab science to the next generation of healthcare providers. When not on campus, Mike can usually be found walking his dog, wandering in a farmer’s market, watching college basketball, or biking one of Madison’s many bike trails.

Hannah Laufenberg, OTD, OTR/L

Hannah Laufenberg, OTD, OTR/L is a Ph.D. student in the Department of Kinesiology at the University of Wisconsin–Madison, pursuing the Occupational Science Track. She earned her bachelor’s degree in psychology from Nova Southeastern University and her Doctorate in Occupational Therapy from UW–Madison. Clinically, Hannah has worked across diverse settings, including outpatient pediatrics, feeding therapy, adult rehabilitation, and currently practices in acute care with adults experiencing a wide range of medical conditions. Hannah joined the Sensory Motor Integration Lab (SMIL) to explore the intersection of mental health and occupational engagement in individuals with progressive neurological conditions, particularly those aging in rural communities. Her research interests are shaped by her clinical experiences and a commitment to improving access and quality of care for underserved populations. Her long-term goals include integrating clinical practice, teaching, and research to promote holistic and evidence-based occupational therapy. Outside of her academic and professional pursuits, Hannah enjoys hiking, painting, spending time in nature, and connecting with friends.

Amber is a Doctor of Occupational Therapy student at the University of Wisconsin–Madison. In the Spring of 2024, she graduated from Central Michigan University where she majored in Exercise Science, Kinesiology and minored in Child Development. During her time at Central Michigan, Amber was a member of the gymnastics team. Amber enjoys working in neuro and pediatrics but is looking to explore many different areas of practice while perusing her OTD. Amber became a member of the SMIL team in the fall of 2024 and is looking forward to working with patients with Parkinson’s and learning about exercise-based interventions. Outside of academics, Amber enjoys spending time with friends and family, running, reading, and cooking.

Trista is a Doctor of Occupational Therapy student at the University of Wisconsin–Madison. In the Spring of 2024, Trista earned her undergraduate degree from UW-Milwaukee, where she studied Occupational Sciences and Technology with a psychology minor. During her time in Milwaukee, she worked as a nanny and as a behavioral technician for ABA therapy. Trista is particularly interested in acute care, inpatient care, neonatal intensive care. Trista joined the SMIL lab in fall of 2024, she is excited to increase OT services to more rural areas. She is also excited to explore the effects of physical activity on neurological and chronic diseases. Outside of graduate school, Trista likes to be outside, spend time with family and friends, play sports, and go to concerts.

Alyssa is a student in the Doctor of Occupational Therapy Program at the University of Wisconsin–Madison and will graduate in 2027. Alyssa earned her undergraduate degree from UW–Madison in Rehabilitation Psychology with a certificate in Health and the Humanities. Throughout her time in Madison, Alyssa has worked as a Certified Nursing Assistant and has worked in multiple different settings where she became enthralled with helping others. She has also volunteered with a variety of different populations and has loved learning more about different settings within healthcare. She is passionate about Occupational Therapy and is interested in exploring orthopedics and neurology within the discipline. Alyssa joined the SMIL lab in fall of 2024 and is excited to explore all the new opportunities within research to apply evidence-based practice within her own line of work. Some of Alyssa’s favorite occupations are reading, going on walks, baking, and spending time with friends and family.

Libby is a Doctor of Occupational Therapy student at the University of Wisconsin–Madison. In the Winter of 2023, she earned her undergraduate degree from Kent State University where she studied Special Education with a minor in Early Intervention. During her time at Kent, she worked as an overnight respite camp counselor, taught swim lessons, and traveled to New Zealand to complete her student teaching. Libby joined the SMIL lab fall of 2024 and is interested in learning more about research regarding underrepresented communities. Outside of school she enjoys traveling and spending time outdoors going camping in the summers and skiing in the winter.

Cora is a Doctor of Occupational Therapy student at the University of Wisconsin–Madison. She earned her undergraduate degree from the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, where she studied Occupational Science and Technology with a minor in Psychology. During her time in Milwaukee, she gained experience working in an acute care hospital setting as a certified nursing assistant. Cora is passionate about working with older adults in acute care and inpatient care settings. Cora joined the SMIL lab in fall of 2025 and looks forward to learning how evidence-based practice can help those in underserved communities.

Yumi is a Doctor of Occupational Therapy student at the University of Wisconsin–Madison and will graduate in 2028. She earned her undergraduate degree from Purdue University in Kinesiology with a concentration in Sports Medicine and a minor in Japanese. During her time at Purdue, she worked as a skills trainer at a mental health group home, participated in the Japan Student Association, served on the Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion board, and held leadership roles in other student organizations. Yumi is particularly interested in in-patient and acute care settings and is eager to explore how evidence-based occupational therapy can support patients in these environments. She joined the SMIL Lab in the fall of 2025 and looks forward to gaining research experience and contributing to projects that advance occupational therapy practice. Outside of school, Yumi enjoys running, spending time outdoors, traveling, and baking new recipes.

Scy is a Doctor of Occupational Therapy student at the University of Wisconsin–Madison. Scy graduated from the University of Wisconsin–Madison with a bachelor’s in Rehabilitation Psychology and an Asian American studies certificate. During her undergraduate years she interned at Children’s Therapy Network and the Waisman Early Childhood Program. She also volunteered at Meriter’s Hospital Elder Life Program, working with adults over the age of 65, most of whom had dementia. Scy joined the SMIL lab in fall of 2025 and is eager to learn about the different interventions available for individuals with Parkinson disease. Outside of the lab, Scy enjoys spending time with her family and friends hiking, enjoying good music together, and trying out new restaurants.

Isabella is a Doctor of Occupational Therapy student at the University of Wisconsin–Madison. Isabella graduated from Central Michigan University with her Bachelor of Applied Arts in Child Development with a minor in Disability Studies & Community Inclusion. During her undergraduate degree, she spent two years as a teaching assistant in the undergraduate anatomy cadaver lab and enjoyed her three years spent working in various Residence Life positions. Isabella has interests in the acute and critical care settings of occupational therapy but looks forward to getting to experience a wide range of OT settings during her time at UW. Isabella joined the SMIL lab in 2025 and looks forward to learning more about Parkinson disease and working with individuals across rural Wisconsin. Outside of the lab, Isabella enjoys spending time with friends and family, reading, traveling, and exploring outdoors.

Noah is a Doctor of Occupational Therapy student at the University of Wisconsin – Madison. In 2022, he earned his undergraduate degree from UW–Madison where he studied Kinesiology – Exercise and Movement Science. Noah was involved with the Sensory Motor Integration Lab from 2019 through 2021 and enjoyed the work so much that he came back! His interests lie in adaptive equipment and physical activity-based interventions, specifically with individuals with neurological disorders. In his free time, Noah enjoys playing guitar, exploring new cities, and spending time outside skiing and biking.

Grace is a Doctor of Occupational Therapy student at the University of Wisconsin–Madison. She graduated from Bemidji State University with a degree in Biology and Psychology. During her undergraduate studies, Grace worked as a teaching assistant for anatomy and physiology and gained experience as a behavior modification assistant. Grace joined the SMIL lab in the fall of 2025 and is excited to learn more about Parkinson Disease and working with new client populations. Outside of academics, Grace enjoys spending time with her family, swimming, and being outdoors.

Sarah is a Doctor of Occupational Therapy student at the University of Wisconsin–Madison. She earned her undergraduate degree in Rehabilitation Psychology from the University of Wisconsin–Madison with Certificates in Global Health and Promoting Activities for Diverse Abilities. During her time as an undergraduate student, Sarah was involved with the Adapted Fitness program on campus that fostered her interest in occupational therapy. She has also worked for Gio’s Garden providing therapeutic respite care to children. Sarah joined the SMIL in fall of 2025 and is excited to learn more about Parkinson Disease and expand her knowledge as a future practitioner. Outside of school, Sarah works for as a supervisor in the box office for Wisconsin Union Theater and enjoys spending time in nature and with family and friends.