Meet the Director

It is a true honour to serve as Associate Dean and Director of the School of Physical and Occupational Therapy (SPOT)—a place that has shaped my professional journey from the very beginning. Having stepped into this role just one month ago, I bring both fresh perspective and deep-rooted commitment as a proud alumna of the School (B.Sc. PT). I am deeply committed to its mission of advancing rehabilitation sciences through excellence in education, research, and clinical practice.

Since rejoining SPOT in 2008, I’ve had the privilege of working with a vibrant and dedicated community of educators, students, researchers, and clinical partners. My academic focus has been in pediatric physical therapy, where I’ve worked with our clinical partners in Montreal to co-develop and continuously update a curriculum that bridges academic learning with hands-on clinical experience. This collaborative approach ensures our students are well-prepared to meet the needs of children and families with both competence and compassion.

My research program centers on pediatric rehabilitation, particularly concussion care for children and adolescents. Working with teams at the Montreal Children’s Hospital and the Research Institute of the MUHC, I’ve contributed to initiatives that improve early diagnosis and recovery pathways for children. Co-founding Canada’s first Child and Adolescent Concussion Clinic and participating in national and international research networks has been a deeply rewarding part of this work.

One of the most fulfilling aspects of my career has been mentoring students and trainees across all levels of study. I see mentorship as a two-way exchange—while I aim to guide and support their growth, I am constantly inspired by their curiosity, resilience, and fresh perspectives. Whether in the classroom, the clinic, or the lab, I strive to create an environment where students feel empowered to ask questions, challenge ideas, and pursue their passions. Watching them evolve into thoughtful, skilled professionals and future researchers is a privilege I never take for granted

As I take on this new leadership role, I look forward to building on the strong foundation laid by the previous director, Prof. Laurie Snider.

Together, with our community, I am committed to fostering innovation, inclusivity, and collaboration across all our programs.

Thank you for visiting our website. I invite you to explore SPOT and discover how we are shaping the future of rehabilitation sciences.

Isabelle Gagnon, Fellow PT, PhD
Associate Dean and Director
School of Physical and Occupational Therapy
Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, McGill University

August 2025