Five Questions With Alexander Lopez
Alexender (Alex) Lopez, J.D., OT/L, FAOTA, is an associate professor of occupational therapy in the School of Health Professions, whose area of expertise include pediatric occupational therapy and health advocacy.
He is also the founder of the nonprofit gym Inclusive Sports and Fitness (ISF), which works to meet the occupational needs of children with performance skill impairments and help them advance their sensorimotor, social, emotional, and cognitive abilities. ISF recently opened a location on New York Tech’s Long Island campus.
Lopez’s most recent study, conducted with faculty and students from the College of Osteopathic Medicine and an occupational therapy doctoral student, finds that virtual reality can motivate children and adolescents with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) to participate in more physical activity and exercise. Due to delays in development, poor motor coordination, hypersensitivities, and difficulties with motivation and focus, these individuals are uninspired and discouraged from participating in physical activity. This lack of interest can lead to further impairments in health and developing social skills.
Lopez talks about how using technology to turn physical activities into a game could help more children with ASD stay active.
This article originally appeared in the spring/summer 2026 issue of New York Institute of Technology Magazine.
More News
Faculty Tenures and Promotions for 2026–2027
Several faculty members have been recognized for their outstanding teaching, scholarship, service, and commitment to the university and its students through tenure and promotions.
Congratulations, Class of 2026!
On May 17, graduates, family members, and friends joined faculty, staff, and administration at New York Institute of Technology’s Long Island campus to celebrate its 65th annual commencement.
A SOURCE for Impressive Student Research
New York Tech’s 23rd Annual Symposium of University Research and Creative Expression (SOURCE) featured hundreds of students’ research and scholarly work.
Supporting Children with Autism
For Autism Acceptance Month, Associate Professor of Occupational Therapy Alexander Lopez, J.D., OT/L, shares practical guidance to help parents better understand how to support children on the spectrum.
2026 Honorary Degree Recipients
Kevin S. Law, executive vice president and partner at TRITEC Development Group, and Krishan Kumar, M.D., an NYITCOM clinical professor of pediatrics and emergency medicine, will receive honorary degrees at New York Tech’s 65th commencement.
When Rehab Meets Robotics
A study co-authored by John P. Handrakis, D.P.T., Ed.D., and graduates of the physical therapy program finds that a wearable robotic device could help stroke survivors get back on their feet.