Assistant Professor in the Speech-Language Pathology program

Dr. Michelle Zemsky Dineen

Assistant Professor in the Speech-Language Pathology program

Biography

Dr. Michelle Zemsky Dineen joined the faculty at West Coast University in July 2024 as an Assistant Professor in the Speech-Language Pathology program. Dr. Dineen completed undergraduate training at Miami University (OH), a master’s degree at Northwestern, and her PhD in Interprofessional Healthcare Studies at Rosalind Franklin University of Medicine and Science.

Following decades of work as a clinician and multidisciplinary rehabilitation manager working with adults and geriatrics throughout the spectrum of care, Dr. Dineen sought out her doctorate to focus on the next generation of healthcare providers. Having seen the benefits of truly collaborative practice in action, and the pitfalls when we practice in silos, she knew going back to school and teaching were the next phase of her career. While not being client/patient focused leaves a huge hole, she carries the stories of those she was privileged to work with; they remain her driving force. The combination of these experiences has afforded Dr. Dineen a unique perspective into our roles as SLP providers and teammates, leading through change, and the business of healthcare.

Dr. Dineen has taught as an adjunct at multiple universities throughout the Midwest and recently completed a two-year Visiting Professorship. Having taught both online and in person, she recognizes and respects the intentional manner online programs seek to engage future professionals and increase access to the field. Dr. Dineen presents regionally and nationally on topics related to medical practice of SLP, interprofessional education and practice, and ethics. These same areas serve as her primary research interests.

Active roles in professional organizations include the following:

  • American Speech-Language-Hearing Association, member
  • Illinois Speech-Language-Hearing Association, Fellow
  • National Academies of Practice, Distinguished Fellow

Dr. Dineen is thrilled to join the team at WCU and serve the students as they grow their knowledge and skills and transition into practice. Outside of work, she enjoys spending time with her family and friends, most notably her husband and two rescue pups, Flash and Dash, who all reside in Chicago, IL.