We’re excited to welcome Melissa Werz, OTD, OTR/L, CDRS, to the Duke Occupational Therapy Doctorate (OTD) division, where she joins us as a Lecturer and Director of the CAMP program. Melissa brings a lively mix of clinical expertise, creativity, and a strong commitment to student development—qualities that make her a great addition to our community.
Melissa is a Senior Occupational Therapist II at Duke Health, passionate about combining hands-on care with innovative solutions. Her path into occupational therapy was motivated by a desire to help others while embracing creativity—a balance she thinks is ideal in OT. “Every day challenges me to collaborate and come up with solutions that are meaningful in people’s lives,” she shares.
In her new role, Melissa is eager to help students connect classroom learning with real-world experience. She’s especially excited to lead the CAMP program, where she can see students grow in confidence as they apply their knowledge in community settings.
Originally from the south side of Chicago (Go White Sox!), Melissa now considers North Carolina her home. She enjoys the outdoors with her husband and two sons, Soren and Rainer. Whether hiking at Eno River or kayaking at Falls Lake, the Werz family is on a mission to visit every North Carolina State Park—and as many National Parks as they can! At home, they love hosting friends for dinner and spending time with their two fluffy Maine Coons.
Looking ahead, Melissa plans to expand her expertise in assistive technology and envisions establishing an Assistive Technology Lab that connects Duke Health clinics, the OTD program, and the broader community.
“I see it as a space where students can learn hands-on, clinicians can collaborate, and community members can access helpful solutions for everyday life,” she says.
It’s a vision that beautifully demonstrates her commitment to creativity, teamwork, and making a meaningful impact.
Please join us in giving Melissa a warm Duke welcome!