When Barry University alumna Iris Veciana, OTR/L, reflects on her journey, one thing is clear: her career has always been rooted in a commitment to help others reach their fullest potential. Iris is a graduate of Barry’s MS in Occupational Therapy Program and has spent more than a decade transforming lives through compassionate care, movement and innovation.

Today, Iris is the owner and operator of her practice Youth’n Action, which she founded with a vision to redefine what occupational therapy can look like. She blends intensive exercise with traditional occupational therapy principles and has created a dynamic model of care that challenges clients to grow both physically and personally.

Her impact extends beyond Youth’n Action’s walls. Iris hosts an annual adaptive CrossFit competition for individuals with special needs, creating a space where athletes of all abilities can showcase their strength and resilience. She has also earned her Dynamic Movement Intervention (DMI) Intermediate Level A certification and travels annually to Ecuador to provide DMI intensives for children.

Iris credits her foundation at Barry University as pivotal in shaping her clinical expertise and leadership mindset. Through hands-on training and mentorship, Barry’s program prepared her to deliver both innovative and impactful care.

Iris’ story reflects how Barry occupational therapy graduates are making meaningful change in their communities and beyond, empowering every client they serve to move, grow, and thrive.