Diverse Leaders Program
The AOTA Diverse Leaders Program offers its Scholars the opportunity to learn from experts within and outside the occupational therapy profession and explore current and emerging issues through an inclusive and effective leadership lens. This program is made possible by a generous donation from The Sandra Hoskins Legacy Foundation.
Promoting a diverse profession
The Diverse Leaders Program identifies, develops, and supports emerging leaders from underrepresented groups within the occupational therapy community to participate in an accelerated program of leadership education, coaching, and service to the profession. These leader Scholars are critical to guiding the profession in the future, including efforts to attract and engage practitioners from diverse backgrounds.
The Diverse Leaders Program focuses on five program areas:
- Education - Learn from guest speakers focusing on entrepreneurship, leadership/management skills, and diverse, equitable, and inclusive leadership.
- Leadership - Attend AOTA Board of Directors and DEI Committee meetings for additional collaboration, networking opportunities, and provide feedback and support for DEIJAB initiatives.
- Mentoring - Participate in 1:1 mentoring with a leader in the field.
- Networking - Meet virtually with fellow Scholars throughout the program year during monthly calls, a Scholar retreat, and meetings with the AOTA Board of Directors and the DEI Committee.
- Volunteering - Receive guidance on the AOTA leadership and governance structure, opportunities to serve, and recommended actions to pursue leadership positions within AOTA.
Meet the inaugural DLP Scholars
Current Diverse Leaders Program Scholars
Dale Coffin, EdD, OTR/L
Christyn Mitchell, MS, MEd, OTR/L
Letitia Osburn, DHSc, MS, OTR/L
Kathlyn Urdaz, OTR/L, ASDCS
Jenny Zhong, COTA/L
Committing to a bright future of the profession
As the professional association representing and supporting occupational therapy, the American Occupational Therapy Association (AOTA) is committed to developing Occupational Therapist (OT) and Occupational Therapy Assistant (OTA) leaders who will guide the profession into a dynamic future. Those who will engage and empower others to dream more, think bigger, and act boldly.
Sandra Hoskins Legacy Foundation
The mission of the Sandra Hoskins Legacy Foundation (SHLF) is to provide intentional support for effective charitable nonprofit organizations engaged in projects and activities that are consistent with the philanthropic interests of its Founding Director.
Founding Director, Sandra "Sandy" Hoskins, an occupational therapy practitioner, has committed more than 40 years of her life to the field of occupational therapy and her foundation focuses on providing quality housing and employment opportunities for individuals who have barriers to economic independence.
