2025 Awards & Recognitions

Anne E. Dickerson, PhD, OTR/L, SCDCM, FAOTA, GSA

Dr. Anne Dickerson is an outstanding educator, translational researcher, strong advocate and dedicated leader for occupational therapy. She is well known and respected for her scholarly work with driving as an IADL. In addition, she has occupied leadership positions in Education, she is an advocate for individuals with disabilities and older adults, perhaps most importantly she impacted decision makers about policy and practice innovation. She was recognized by ECU with their highest scholarship honor - Lifetime Achievement in Research, received NC's 2020 Governor's Excellence Award for Public Service.

Confidential until the Awards Ceremony on Saturday, April 5.

Confidential until the Awards Ceremony on Saturday, April 5

Elizabeth Thomas, PhD

Dr. Elizabeth Thomas, Assistant Professor at Temple University's College of Public Health, is co-Director of the Community Inclusion and Reflective Collaboration Center and investigator at the Temple University Collaborative on Community Inclusion. Her NIH-, NIDILRR-, and SAMHSA-funded research focuses on enhancing community participation for young adults with mental health challenges. Her work highlights occupational therapists' unique roles in fostering participation and facilitating transitions from early intervention services by supporting critical functional outcomes. As an associate editor for Psychiatric Rehabilitation Journal, Dr. Thomas advances interdisciplinary scholarship.

Michael J. Urban, OTD, MS, MBA, OTR/L, CEAS

Dr. Michael Urban is an Assistant Professor in the Programs in Occupational Therapy at the Department of Rehabilitation and Regenerative Medicine at VP&S, CUIMC. With over two decades of experience, he holds a Master of Occupational Therapy, a Doctor of Occupational Therapy, and an MBA. Currently, he serves as the Speaker of the Representative Assembly for the American Occupational Therapy Association (AOTA) and has revised the Occupational Therapy Practice Framework. Dr. Urban is dedicated to promoting occupational therapy services and improving the well-being of communities, including veterans and first responders.

Amanda K. Giles, OTD, OTR/L, FAOTA

Amanda K. Giles, OTD, OTR/L, FAOTA is a tenured Associate Professor at the Medical University of South Carolina and President of International Clinical Educators (ICE). She serves on the AOTA Scholarship of Teaching and Learning Leadership Team and is lead author of the AOTA OT Curriculum Design Framework. She is also a co-investigator and mentor on a 5-year NIH-funded ($2.5m) mentoring program for entrepreneurial women faculty. She is passionate about creating meaningful learning experiences and faculty resources, such as DocuLearn, an electronic documentation learning system.

Tina DeAngelis, EdD, MS, OTR/L, FAOTA

Tina DeAngelis is a Professor at Jefferson and Director of Occupational Therapy at Project Home's Hub of Hope, a low barrier day services program serving the unhoused in Philadelphia, PA. She is committed to teaching and mentoring students to provide health and wellness OT services in community behavioral health settings to include those with serious mental illness. She shares this dedication and passion not only with her students but with her interprofessional colleagues in order to extend the profession's reach to new practice settings.

Moira Bushell, OTD, MEd, OTR/L, BCP, CRA

Dr. Moira P. Bushell has made a profound impact on school-based OT practice and volunteer leadership. Beyond her clinical expertise, she excels in systems change, advocacy, and leadership development. She transformed AOTA's volunteer nomination processes to align with strategic goals and foster inclusive governance. Her dedication to diversity and inclusion, paired with her ability to drive meaningful change, has influenced thousands of practitioners and enhanced services for students nationwide. Dr. Bushell's work continues to advance the profession and strengthen the communities she serves.

Samantha Miller, COTA/L

Early on as a Pregnancy and Postpartum Physical Training Program Manager, I identified significant gaps in care for active-duty pregnant and postpartum Soldiers. This resulted in the creation of comprehensive educational resources addressing multiple relevant topics and a holistic screening tool for program participants. Through close collaboration with H2F staff, contractors, and Army leadership, I successfully advocated for improvements to lactation rooms, the addition of changing tables to restrooms, and adjustments to the physical readiness training schedules, ensuring the program effectively meets the needs of this population.

Tracy Mroz, PhD, OTR/L, FAOTA

Tracy Mroz is a health services researcher, policy expert, and advocate for occupational therapy. She has leveraged her clinical background and research on post-acute care services and workforce to bring the voice of occupational therapy into federal health care policy discussions. She has served on technical expert panels for the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services, consulted on Medicare's post-acute care quality reporting programs, and provided testimony to the US Senate Finance Subcommittee on Health Care on access to home health in rural communities.

Krysti Teng, MS, OTR/L

Krysti Teng demonstrates leadership in advancing occupational therapy through her advocacy for new practitioners, advancing school-based OT's capacity, and continuing evidence-based practice in sensory integration and processing. As a former K-12 teacher, Krysti believes school-based OTs play a pivotal role in creating inclusive solutions for students. Nationally, she serves on AOTA's Volunteer Leadership Development Committee and previously mentored new practitioners as the Young Professionals Coordinator for AOTA's Sensory Integration and Processing SIS. Krysti's contributions earned her the 2025 Gary Kielhofner Emerging Leader Award.

Sarah Schoen, PhD, OTR

Dr. Sarah Schoen has made significant and sustained contributions to the profession of occupational therapy by advancing theory and evidence-based practice through research, education and practice. She has provided exemplary intervention to children and families; developed measurement tools, and advanced the occupational therapy community via teaching and mentorship. As a leader, Dr. Schoen has shared her expertise and disseminated her scholarship to cultivate and advance practitioners worldwide. She truly exemplifies the kind of occupational therapist the Roster of Fellows/Outstanding Mentor Award is designed to acknowledge.

Amanda Lynn Piepgras, COTA

As the founder of Amanda's Adaptive Martial Arts, I have pioneered inclusive martial arts programs in San Diego, serving 979 children and adults with special needs. Our organization is the first martial arts center certified as an Autism Center by IBCCES, and we've been honored with the San Diego Award for excellence in martial arts education. With over 20 years of experience as a Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant and a black belt in Kyokushin Karate, I am committed to empowering individuals through adaptive martial arts.

Briana Bonner, OTD, OTR/L

Dr. Briana Bonner (@DrBriTheOT) is a global leader dedicated to expanding occupational therapy's reach and impact. As co-founder of the Network for Inclusion and Advocacy (NIA), she leads Helping Hands Global Outreach, providing mission-driven OT services, telehealth, and education across Africa. With a Global Health Certificate from Harvard, she is committed to advancing equitable, inclusive care worldwide. Through her platform, Dr. Bri The OT, she amplifies OT's global influence, connecting families to resources and empowering practitioners to drive meaningful change.

Jill Brown PhD, MSOT, OTR/L

I advocated for the inclusion of occupational therapy in the Gaining Recovery in Addiction for Community Elders (GRACE) Project in Bay County, MI. The GRACE Project provided access to evidence-based treatment for substance use disorders for older adults, using medication assisted treatment and nonpharmacological services. Our team earned $352,574.00 to start a primary care clinic. We continue to teach our students Screening, Brief Interventions, Referral Treatment with community members in recovery; this expedites care and empowers students to become agents of change in their communities.

Tyler Hood, OTD/S

Tyler Hood is pursuing his degree at Washington University in St. Louis School of Medicine's Program in Occupational Therapy. He is dedicated to making a difference for current and future occupational therapy practitioners by addressing the critical intersection of climate change and healthcare delivery and practice. Through his leadership roles within and beyond AOTA, he advocates for diversity, equity, and inclusion and works to ensure a future where occupational therapy practitioners drive the advancement of healthcare at both local and national levels.

Rebecca Finni, DHS, OTR/L, RAC-CT, FAOTA

Becky has practiced almost 25 years in long term care with special focus on documentation and reimbursement. She served three terms on the Ohio OTPTAT Licensure Board and eight years as OOTA President. Her advocacy efforts helped Ohio become the second state to join the OT Licensure Compact. She has championed OTAs and their role in school-based practice in Ohio and supported the passage of copay fairness legislation at the close of 2024. She currently teaches at Muskingum University and chairs the AOTA BPPC Committee.

Sabrena McCarley, MBA-SL, OTR/L, CLIPP, RAC-CT, QCP, FAOTA, RAC-CTA

Sabrena McCarley, is a distinguished leader in occupational therapy whose career is marked by extraordinary contributions that have advanced health care and health promotion on a national scale. Her extensive work in post-acute care, advocacy, and health equity has made a significant impact on the profession, the patients she serves, and the broader healthcare system. In particular, she is known to be a policy expert, working to advance occupational therapy services through collaborations with the federal government and other agencies impacting occupational therapy service provision.

Natalie Chang Wright, MBA-HCM, COTA/L, ROH and Shanese Higgins, DHSc, OTR/L, BCMH, FAOTA

Natalie Chang Wright is a dedicated occupational therapy assistant with 34 years of experience, excelling as a leader and team member. Her teamwork skills were shaped by her roles as a sibling, mother, wife, and soldier in the U.S. Army. These skills flourished through her personal and professional journey, culminating in advocacy and activism. As the first chairperson for the DEIJAB committee, Natalie champions diversity, equity, inclusion, justice, access, belonging, inter and intraprofessional collaboration through volunteerism, education, and quintessential contributions to the occupational therapy profession.

Shanese L. Higgins, DHSc, OTR/L, FAOTA, BCMH

Dr. Shanese L. Higgins, an Occupational Therapist with 20+ years of experience, has AOTA Board Specialty Certification in Mental Health. She earned her Post-Professional Doctor of Health Science and Master of Occupational Therapy from the University of Indianapolis. Passionate about enhancing dignity and diversity, she encourages reflection on the impact of culture on occupational engagement. Her research interests include mental health and culturally responsive practices. She values God, family, church ministry, arts, and reading. Dr. Higgins is a member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc.

Aaron Dallman, PhD

Dr. Aaron Dallman, PhD, OTR/L, is an Assistant Professor at Rutgers University and a translational occupational scientist. Their research develops and evaluates neurodiversity-affirming interventions to enhance quality of life and promote belonging for children and adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Dr. Dallman's research has been shown to meet community-centered priorities and improve transition outcomes for individuals with neurodevelopmental conditions. Their work has informed evidence-based practices that are now being implemented in partnership with a hospital system through the prestigious Learning Health System Scholar award.

Cassidy McAllister, OTR/L

Cassidy McAllister is a critical care occupational therapist. Her work focuses on ICU patients' unique challenges, including cognitive impairments that can arise from prolonged hospital stays. Her work involves developing therapeutic interventions to enhance this patient population's cognitive function and overall well-being. Cassidy is pursuing her post-professional doctorate in occupational therapy at Temple University. In her free time, Cassidy enjoys reading, going on long runs with her dog, and spending time with her friends and family.

Cara Lekovitch, CScD, MOT, OTR/L, BCG
Ann Marsico, CScD, MOT, OTR/L
Ketki Raina, PhD, OTR/L, FAOTA

The University of Pittsburgh's Mission Possible program supports occupational therapy doctorate students in developing work behaviors and communication skills during Level I fieldwork. Through preparatory instruction, role-playing, real-world application, and reflection, the program enhances professional competence in areas such as interpersonal skills, teamwork, and emotional intelligence. Tailored challenges help students with varying experience levels build confidence and address self-doubt. Collaborative discussions and feedback foster a sense of belonging while promoting critical skills for clinical success. Early outcomes highlight increased self-awareness and readiness for professional practice.

Congratulations and thank you to the 2025 Service Commendation recipients, individual members of AOTA who have provided volunteer service and leadership to support the Association and the profession. AOTA is grateful for your service and contributions; your investment of time and energy adds value to AOTA's mission and serves to strengthen the profession.

Kim is a skilled clinician, educator, and leader with over 15 years of experience in occupational therapy. Kim's expertise includes neurologic rehabilitation, developing innovative teaching strategies, and fostering partnerships between academic and clinical programs. She has mentored countless fieldwork students and peers through clinical practice. She now serves as a program coordinator for OTA education, Council Member for ACOTE and has been a part of revising national education standards, striving to advance the occupational therapy assistant role.

Kenyatha ""Kay"" Richardson is a distinguished leader and innovator whose visionary approach fuels growth and inspires excellence. With over two decades of experience in academia and healthcare, she has forged strategic partnerships, led transformative initiatives, and mentored countless students to achieve success. As an accomplished entrepreneur, Kay delivers innovative solutions that leave a lasting impact, empowering individuals to reach their full potential and driving transformative change. Her unwavering dedication to making a difference continues to shape lives, strengthen communities, and elevate organizations.

Dr. Nardia Aldridge is a distinguished occupational therapist and healthcare leader with 22 years of experience. Her expertise spans gerontology, health promotion, diversity, and community-based interventions. A nationally recognized advocate for DEI, she mentors students and professionals, fostering pathways into the OT profession. Dr. Aldridge has presented at international conferences, published impactful research, and led initiatives that enhance cultural competence in healthcare. As a leader in the National Black OT Caucus and founder of Shark Tank Toastmasters, she exemplifies excellence, innovation, and service to her profession and community.

Amy Armstrong-Heimsoth, a dedicated emerging practice occupational therapist and researcher, has impacted over 967 youth in foster care in over 119 group homes, creating programs to build resilience and independent living skills. She established the Youth in Transition Coalition in Arizona and advocates for OT services for youth aging out of foster care. She has created grant-funded projects to improve access to OT services for this population. Recognized as a 2024 Phoenix HealthCare Hero Finalist, Amy's work supports systemic change and elevates the OT profession.

Rachel Ashcraft is dedicated to the continued pursuit of improved occupational therapy services for individuals, communities, and populations who have been impacted through traumatic experiences and events. Rachel co-edited the AOTA textbook, Trauma, Occupation, and Participation: Foundations and Population Considerations in Occupational Therapy. Her work has primarily focused on serving children with histories of trauma, foster care services and advocacy, trauma informed school based practices, promoting neuroaffirming practices, and trauma informed pedagogy. Rachel credits the amazing children she's worked with as her greatest teachers.

Dr. Ganesh Babulal has 120 peer-reviewed publications and more than 30 million in NIH funding as solely the PI. His mentoring range spans high school students to tenured faculty across fields of medicine. But at his core, he is an occupational therapist who strives to democratize knowledge, invest in diverse skill sets, and build authentic occupational therapy as a powerful profession outside of its traditional boundaries in fields like Neurology, Public Health, and Artificial Intelligence in an unstable climate of changing political dynamics and support.

Mary Alicia Barnes, OTD, OTR/L has co-led training groups for occupational therapy students for over 30 years at Tufts University. She has served as a fieldwork educator and mentor for entry level and post professional MS and OTD students. She co-authored publications about child and adolescent psychiatry, fieldwork education, group theory, trauma informed care, and OT in carceral settings. Mary has co-led presentations about mental health practice, LII fieldwork, doctoral capstones, and group leadership. Her scholarship focuses on group leader training, mentoring, and program evaluation.

Dr. Bennett has over 20 years of experience as an Occupational Therapy clinician and is an Associate Professor and Academic Fieldwork Coordinator in higher education. With a deep passion for ethics in practice, Dr. Bennett serves as the Chair of the American Occupational Therapy Association's (AOTA) Ethics Commission, where they lead efforts to advance ethical standards and education within the profession. A dedicated educator and practitioner, Dr. Bennett has made significant contributions to fostering ethical decision-making and professional integrity in occupational therapy.

Dr. Meghan Blaskowitz works at the intersection of occupational therapy and public health to research interventions and design innovative programs aimed at closing disparity gaps for youth and adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities. She wanted to be an OT from an early age when her cousin Shane, who has William Syndrome, experienced stigmatization and limited opportunities post-high school. Since then, she's advocated for full inclusion for people with disabilities to state and federal governments and her university where she co-directs an inclusive post-secondary education program.

Dr. Michelle Bradshaw is a leader and advocate for Integrative Health Occupational Therapy, an innovative practice that integrates diverse health practices into customary occupational therapy. She has twice authored AOTA's position statement on Complementary Health Approaches and Integrative Health in OT, co-founded AOTA's Integrative Health OT Community of Practice, and serves as New York State Representative to AOTA's Representative Assembly. Her work pushes the occupational therapy services to promote occupational engagement and participation for all individuals and keeps OT relevant in an evolving healthcare landscape.

Dr. Kimberly Angel Bryant is an inclusive leader advocating for social determinants of health (SDOH) competence and diversity in occupational therapy. As Lead Occupational Therapist in a rural SC school district, she tirelessly provides vital services to underserved students. As adjunct instructor, she provides support for underrepresented students and mentors learners from marginalized backgrounds. Dr. Bryant contributed to inclusive policies on the inaugural AOTA DEI Committee. Over her 22 year career, she has published SDOH research while advancing healthcare access as a regional clinical operations director.

Dr. Budash began her career as an occupational therapist in inpatient rehabilitation in 1990, transitioning to academia in 2003. As a clinician, program director, researcher, and faculty, she has dedicated herself to the success of her patients, students, and colleagues. Her innate strengths of creativity, professionalism, and kindness integrate to provide environments rich for learning, growth, and achievement. By seeking to engage and empower all to utilize their unique abilities, Dr. Budash fosters a positive and uplifting community wherever she is.

Dr. Moira P. Bushell has made a profound impact on school-based OT practice and volunteer leadership. Beyond her clinical expertise, she excels in systems change, advocacy, and leadership development. She transformed AOTA's volunteer nomination processes to align with strategic goals and foster inclusive governance. Her dedication to diversity and inclusion, paired with her ability to drive meaningful change, has influenced thousands of practitioners and enhanced services for students nationwide. Dr. Bushell's work continues to advance the profession and strengthen the communities she serves.

Dr. Angela Caldwell is an occupational therapy practitioner, educator, and scientist with expertise in pediatrics and health promotion. She is passionate about reducing disparities in health outcomes observed among children with developmental delays and disabilities. Angela has been a transformative leader in that her application of behavioral activation strategies to pediatric occupational therapy interventions reshapes how clinicians empower caregivers to influence everyday family routines. She has made significant contributions to occupational therapy as a renowned scientist, engaging educator, invested mentor, and enthusiastic advocate.

Shelley Coleman Casto, MS, OTR/L, BCP, CPST, exemplifies excellence in pediatric occupational therapy through leadership, mentorship, and advocacy. As Clinical Team Lead at Nationwide Children's Hospital, she has overseen 25 practitioners, fostering high-quality care and practitioner development. Her expertise is evident in her Board Certification in Pediatrics, four peer-reviewed publications, and over ten state/national conference presentations. She has shaped AOTA practices, chaired critical committees, and represented occupational therapy at the 2024 U.S. Health Care Leadership Summit. Shelley's advocacy and mentorship ensure broad, lasting impacts on patient care and professional development.

Monique Chabot is the Associate Director of Assistive Technology at the Institute on Disabilities at Temple University where she oversees the Pennsylvania Assistive Technology Program. Previously, she worked as an Associate Professor in two local OT programs and as a home modifications specialist for several Philadelphia-area housing nonprofits. She is in her final months of her PhD in Architecture and Design Research, and co-facilitates the AOTA Environmental Modifications Community of Practice. Dr. Chabot specializes in Living In Place, assistive technology design, and smart technology.

Dr. Clancy is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Occupational Therapy at Thomas Jefferson University. With over a decade of clinical experience, his research focuses on patients with cardiopulmonary conditions with an emphasis on clinical assessment and developing clinical reasoning to improve patient outcomes. He holds a PhD in Health Policy and Board Certification in Physical Rehabilitation. Dr. Clancy has served as an invited expert on national and international panels, including the Agency for Health Research & Quality and the World Health Organization.

Chantelle Rice Collins, OTD, OTR/L, CDCES, LR-C has dedicated her career as faculty at the University of Southern California to the advancement of Lifestyle Redesign®, an intervention framework that supports clients in the prevention and management of chronic health conditions through the development of health promoting habits and routines. In addition to direct patient care, Dr. Rice Collins has been instrumental in leading and training faculty, doctoral residents, AOTA fellows, and students in developing their clinical expertise and advocating for occupational therapy's role in behavioral health.

For over three decades I've been dedicated to a singular pursuit: empowering children to realize their fullest potential through self-determination education -- constantly seeking innovative ways to nurture independence and confidence in diverse young minds. This dedication culminated in earning my doctorate at Temple University in 2022, where I had the privilege of conducting research on my self-determination programs - Captain Me and the Self-Determination Strategies Toolkit. I am deeply grateful to the incredible mentors who have guided and supported me throughout this meaningful journey!

Over the last decade, Jayson has dedicated his career to supporting school-based OT practitioners. From hosting over 170 episodes of the OT Schoolhouse Podcast to organizing countless online collaboration calls and professional development courses for school-based OTPs, he has inspired thousands of practitioners to implement evidence-based practices while advocating for themselves and the OT profession. Jayson has also engaged in academics and research, advising OT students on their thesis projects and researching the perception and use of AI to support school-based OT practitioners.

Rhonda Davis-Cheshire has provided care to geriatric, adult, and pediatric populations as an occupational therapist in hospital, outpatient, and, most recently, school settings. She is currently an Associate Professor at Kettering College, where her primary focus is teaching pediatric intervention courses and supporting research and capstone projects. She has held positions serving the Ohio Occupational Therapy Association, as well as AOTA, serving in the Representative Assembly. She has contributed to the profession through education, research, service, and her passion for women's justice.

I am honored to be recognized as a Fellow of the American Occupational therapy Association. This award acknowledges my commitment, accomplishments, and impact on higher education, research, service, and practice for over 40 years. My greatest triumphs have included contributing to the creation of several interprofessional programs, integrating OTD students into primary care, and mentoring junior faculty, It is a blessing to lead research studies with a proficient team of interprofessional collaborators, occupational therapist scientists, and inquiring, empathetic students.

Kathryn Ellis is an international change agent for sex and intimacy conversations within healthcare. She is a Doctor of Occupational Therapy and an AASECT Certified Sexuality Counselor. Kathryn is the founder of the Institute for Sex & Occupational Therapy and developed the first certification program within Occupational Therapy to enhance OTPs preparedness to address sex in all clinical practice settings. Through education, consulting, and building community, her mission is to dismantle the restrictive norms related to sex that restrict discussions of sex in healthcare settings.

My work aims to support inclusion and belonging in the occupational therapy profession. I have developed the cultural humility and justice curriculum in our OT program. As a result of this work, I was honored to collaborate with AOTA to publish in the DEI Toolkit. Recently I participated in a scholarly fellow program exploring the impact of the developed OT diversity curriculum on student's professional identity. I currently serve as the Co-Vice President of Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Accessibility with my state OT association.

Dr. Anne Escher strives to promote accessibility and inclusion for clients and students. She adapts assessments and outcome measures to enable participation for adults with disabilities, and advocates for inclusive teaching practices through creation and dissemination of resources to support their implementation. As part of an interprofessional team, she provides consultation, training, and occupational therapy services to older adults in a correctional facility. By fostering inclusive and just environments, Dr. Escher's innovative body of work has had a profound impact on clients, faculty, and students.

Dr. Tomeico Faison is a faith filled woman, wife, mother and a serial entrepreneur. She is an assistant professor in the Duke OTD program, the CEO of Therapeutic Solutions and the CEO of Low Vision Rehab Solutions. She is committed to increasing representation in the OT profession and creating opportunities for leaders and entrepreneurs who serve underserved populations with excellence.

Claudette advocates for people with mental health needs across the lifespan at local, state, and national levels. She has worked in mental health across many settings and her book No Saint's Here: A Cautionary Tale ..., written around her and her son's experience, comes out in May. She loves bringing brilliant TWU students into community practice, time with grandchildren, work on her house where she is chief plasterer, painter, and gardener. She hopes to increase work in family advocacy and rural health in the future.

Dr. Erin Foster's scholarly work has paved the way for more effective occupational therapy interventions for people living with chronic neurological conditions and/or functional cognitive difficulties. She has over 50 peer-reviewed publications and $4M in grant funding for her research. Her passion in this area ignites enthusiasm for research among students and hope for a better future for both clients and families. She is exceptionally dedicated to developing future occupational therapy practitioners and scientists and to advocating for the profession through leadership and service.

Dr. Razan Hamed, a distinguished educator and national leader in occupational therapy, has made remarkable contributions to advancing the profession through her expertise in education, leadership, and advocacy. With an illustrious academic career spanning over 15 years, Dr. Hamed has held esteemed academic and leadership positions both domestically and internationally, including her current role as Associate Director and Dean of Students at Columbia University. Her innovative initiatives include the development of inclusive teaching guidelines, the adoption of competency-based education frameworks, and the integration of virtual reality to enhance student learning.

Mary Hildebrand has contributed to the profession by developing and disseminating knowledge for persons with neurological disabilities and their caregivers. She has won multiple teaching awards, created courses incorporating knowledge with experiences in the pro-bono clinic she directed and in interprofessional collaborations with speech pathology for clients post-stroke, and guided 31 doctoral capstone projects. Her research includes 28 peer-reviewed publications with stroke practice guidelines and measurement of treatment fidelity among the most significant. Mary is the proud mother of three daughters and five grandchildren.

Dr. Hoffman became involved in advocacy over 27 years ago and has served on numerous Board of Directors including Ambucs, Reins of life, and Feeding Matters. For the past decade, Dr. Hoffman has served on the Michigan OT Association, and for the past 5 years as the Advocacy Director. Denise devoted her doctorate capstone on state association advocacy recruitment and retention behaviors. Dr. Hoffman's statewide advocacy efforts have facilitated legislative changes, educated policymakers, created year-round advocacy initiatives, and developed advocacy capstone program opportunities.

Dr. Jason K. Hughes is a highly regarded leader in occupational therapy, known for his unwavering commitment to lifelong learning, research, and innovation. He has authored influential book chapters, published widely cited research, presented at national and international conferences, and developed highly successful mobile apps. As a passionate mentor and advocate, Dr. Hughes has guided countless students and professionals, earning numerous awards for his excellence in teaching and mentorship throughout his distinguished career.

Dr. Tia Hughes has shown her commitment and dedication to OT as a community leader and educator of the highest caliber. Whether mentoring potential and current health care professionals, or leading our accreditation body, she has influenced individuals, communities, and institutions in ways that serve our profession well. She is recognized as a diplomatic leader with strong negotiation skills, and her legacy of service to her state association and to AOTA has inspired others with her vision for what is possible.

Clover Hutchinson, OTD, ACUE, OTR/L Assistant Professor, York College, CUNY With over 32 years in occupational therapy, Dr. Clover Hutchinson has advanced the field through education, leadership, mentorship and advocacy. Her contributions include innovative OT education methods, impactful community outreach, and leadership in professional organizations. An accomplished author and mentor, she has spearheaded initiatives addressing health disparities and diversity. Dr. Hutchinson's work spans local and global settings, leaving a profound impact on students, practitioners, and underserved communities, exemplifying her commitment to advancing occupational therapy.

Dr. William (Bill) Janes is an outspoken advocate for the role of OT in designing assistive technology. He has served in volunteer leadership positions within AOTA, RESNA, and the Assistive Technology Industry Association. As director of the University of Missouri Assistive Technology Adaptation and Training lab, Dr. Janes mentors students in occupational therapy, engineering, design, rehabilitation science, art, health informatics, and textile and apparel management. He has secured over $1 million in competitive research funding to build the science of assistive technology across the lifespan.

Judith Joseph possesses an exceptional foundation in occupational therapy, underpinned by nearly 40 years of expertise in clinical practice, leadership, mentorship, and advocacy. As the Executive Director of TOTA, she engages with lobbyists, Texas legislators, and state agency leaders to advance the profession's role across diverse contexts and maintain TOTA's responsiveness to issues affecting occupational therapy in Texas. Judith exemplifies transformative leadership, catalyzing progress through her service, advocacy, and commitment to supporting students. Her enduring contributions profoundly shape the future of the occupational therapy profession.

Dr. Twylla Kirchen is a seasoned occupational therapist with 23 years of professional experience. She has led multiple occupational therapy programs, served as a founding director, and currently oversees the hybrid track of the Doctor of Occupational Therapy (OTD) program at the Medical University of South Carolina. A U.S. Army veteran, Dr. Kirchen is committed to expanding OT services in rural and underserved communities. Her research centers on mental health and the development of culturally relevant interventions for unhoused populations, contributing to critical advancements in these areas.

Dr. Riqiea Kitchens is an experienced educator, practitioner, researcher, leader, and advocate for occupational therapy. Throughout her career, she has maintained a commitment to advancing representation, inclusion, accessibility, and equity in health care and education. Dr. Kitchens has disseminated her work at the national and international levels through panels, presentations, and authored publications. Dr. Kitchens has served in leadership capacities in the state and national professional organizations and is the current President of the National Black Occupational Therapy Caucus.

Dr. Brenda Koverman is a leader and advocate. With distinguished care spanning over 40 years, she has made significant contributions to the field of occupational therapy through her leadership and program development in innovative areas including primary care. Dr. Koverman has been a strong legislative advocate serving various volunteer roles as AOTPAC director, Illinois occupational therapy association (ILOTA) president and ILOTA director of advocacy. She is the recipient of Manager of the Quarter at Rush University Medical Center and the ILOTA Political Action award.

Dr. Elizabeth LeQuieu's contributions and innovative approach to experiential learning have enriched occupational therapy education and positively impacted educators, students, and ultimately clients served by practitioners. Her scholarly work focusing on fieldwork education and clinical reasoning has informed best practices. Her leadership in creating innovative procedures, practices, and curricula to enhance fieldwork experiences for students, fieldwork educators, and the educational programs where she has served further emphasizes her role as a dedicated educator.

Kathleen Lyons is Professor of Occupational Therapy at Massachusetts General Hospital Institute of Health Professions where she directs the Cancer Rehabilitation (CaRe) Lab. She is a rehabilitation scientist and occupational therapist whose research is focused on developing the evidence base for cancer rehabilitation and psycho-oncology. Her primary area of interest is in developing and testing participant-directed interventions that are tailored to address individual priorities and needs. research has been funded by the American Cancer Society, National Cancer Institute, and the American Occupational Therapy Foundation.

Dr. McGee has been an Occupational therapist for 25 years. His clinical work spanned various medical-based settings, most recently in hand therapy. He is now an associate professor of OT and Rehabilitation Science at the University of Minnesota where he educates and mentors OTD, PhD students, and post-doctoral fellows, serves as the Principal Investigator in the Minnesota Musculoskeletal and Occupational Performance Research Lab, is the Associate Department Head for research, and is the academic coordinator for the MHealth-University of Minnesota Hand Therapy Fellowship program.

Dr. Heather McKay is a leader in advancing dementia caregiving and workforce development through her 25-year career as OTA-to-OT, educator, researcher, and consultant. Inspired by personal caregiving experiences and countless adaptive caregivers, she delivers dynamic training that empowers families and teams nationwide. Her work spans impactful dementia care education, occupation-based research, and advocacy, earning honors like the Alzheimer's Foundation's Dementia Care Professional of the Year. Heather shares her expertise and passion with Appalachian State's MSOT program, exemplifying leadership, mentorship, and dedication to occupational therapy's transformative potential.

Dr. Rochelle Mendonca is Assistant Professor of Occupational Therapy at Columbia University. Her expertise in educating OT students to build assistive technologies led to over 200 devices being provided to underserved individuals and been featured on NBC and ABC. She has received over $7 million in funding through NIH, NIDILRR, and foundations. She has been invited to present nationally and internationally including 6 keynotes. Dr. Mendonca was also appointed to the U.S. Access Board to develop standards for accessible medical equipment, recently adopted by DHHS.

Dr Baltazar Mori has made significant contributions to the profession and for occupational therapy consumers through provision of international mentorship programs, publications and advocacy in Ayres Sensory Integration. She has served on local public and school district committees to improve services for children and families. Her unique volunteer efforts with the development and international normative data collection for the Evaluation of Ayres Sensory Integration (EASI) demonstrates her commitment and resolve for quality care and evidence-based practice for children worldwide.

Dr. Lynne Murphy has been an occupational therapist for almost 40 years, including clinical practice and faculty roles at Towson University and East Carolina University. She has conducted and disseminated occupational therapy and educational research and has mentored faculty in person and through the ICE video library. However, she is most known for her authenticity, compassion, mentorship and advocacy of over 1,700 students through creative individualized approaches, facilitating their clinical reasoning and skills for occupational therapy practice.

Recognized as an expert clinician, leader, advocate, and mentor. Since earning her degree in Occupational Therapy, she has advanced through clinical and administrative roles in adult rehabilitation. She has held leadership positions in the Maryland and American Occupational Therapy Associations. Her work with the Maryland Mayhem wheelchair rugby team provides opportunities for individuals with physical disabilities to participate in competitive sports. Lori is committed to educating future occupational therapy practitioners through teaching in OT and OTA programs. Her expertise is recognized through publications, presentations, and consultations.

Dr. Perkins exemplifies dedication to advancing occupational therapy through innovation, advocacy, and mentorship. Her achievements include securing grant funding to support justice-involved students pursuing OTD degrees and integrating emotional intelligence into clinical practices. She established free community clinics, impacting underserved populations while providing students with practical experiences. As a global scholar and TEDx speaker, she has delivered international presentations, authored transformative research, and created innovative apps to enhance learning. A passionate advocate and mentor, Dr. Perkins inspires brave spaces and champions diversity within the profession.

Jennifer Sambrook Pitonyak has contributed to the occupational therapy profession in the areas of education research, family and community health promotion, and behavioral health advocacy. She co-directs the AOTA Scholarship of Teaching and Learning Mentorship Program and has numerous publications and presentations on best practices in OT education. Her scholarly work on occupation and life course health has furthered public health and other professions' understanding of occupational therapy's contribution to diverse life outcomes. She is professor and director of curriculum at Pacific Northwest University.

Dr. Elizabeth Rhodus is an Assistant Professor at the University of Kentucky College of Medicine. Dr. Rhodus has primary faculty appointments in the Department of Behavioral Science, Sanders-Brown Center on Aging, and the Center for Health, Engagement, and Transformation. Dr. Rhodus' research develops assessments and occupational therapy interventions related to behavioral and psychiatric symptoms of Alzheimer's disease and related dementias within the home environment. Special emphasis is in reducing health disparities related to brain health among historically marginalized populations.

Linda Riccio has significantly advanced occupational therapy through creating clinical frameworks like Restore, Compensate or Adapt and innovative programs like the Life Skills initiative, empowering individuals in mental health settings. A healthcare advocate and innovator in post-acute care, she has championed healthcare reform, mentored leaders, and served her community. Recognized with awards such as NARA's Impact Award and a Visionary Leadership honor, Linda's dedication to clinical excellence, leadership, and advocacy has improved lives, inspired peers, and elevated the profession, leaving a profound and measurable impact.

Dr. Jacquelyn Sample has spent her 25+ year career engaging in and organizing OT advocacy projects, including co-founding the Missouri OT Hill Day, Missouri Disability Empowerment, and working with the Missouri Department of Elementary and Secondary Education on updating the OT School-based guidelines. Dr. Sample is actively engaged in municipal and state policy development and is currently running for public office. Dr. Sample currently serves as the President of MOTA, Chair of the Disabilities Commission in Columbia, MO, and is an associate professor at Cox College.

Dr. Jodi Schreiber's work in intra- and interprofessional education and advocacy focuses on promoting the value and contributions of occupational therapy across multiple disciplines. As a result of her efforts students, consumers, and administrators have an enhanced understanding of OT's role in a variety of health care teams and systems. Combined with her innovative teaching methods, Dr. Schreiber's leadership and service to the profession serve as an example of the purpose and value of being an active, engaged member of professional efforts and organizations.

Dr. Sarah Schoen has made significant and sustained contributions to the profession of occupational therapy by advancing theory and evidence-based practice through research, education and practice. She has provided exemplary intervention to children and families; developed measurement tools, and advanced the occupational therapy community via teaching and mentorship. As a leader, Dr. Schoen has shared her expertise and disseminated her scholarship to cultivate and advance practitioners worldwide. She truly exemplifies the kind of occupational therapist the Roster of Fellows/Outstanding Mentor Award is designed to acknowledge.

Dr. Josh Skuller has devoted himself to advancing and creating opportunities for children with disabilities and occupational therapy students through sustained leadership, service, advocacy, and mentoring. His numerous contributions have made an important impact on the occupational therapy profession through effective leadership and established him as a recognized expert in pediatric occupational therapy. His sustained contributions reinforce and exemplify the seven word statement: Sustained Leadership in Teaching, Scholarship, and Service.

Arriving from South Africa with $200 and a dream to become an occupational therapist, Dr. Natasha Smet is recognized as a transformative leader through her unwavering commitment to inclusion and mentorship. As editor of a leading OT textbook, she engaged diverse authors to expand cultural representation. Her pioneering mentorship program has supported over 150 mentee pairs from underrepresented backgrounds. Dr. Smet's dedication to advancing equity shows through her scholarly endeavors and cross-disciplinary advocacy. Natasha embodies leadership, advocacy, and mentorship to promote inclusion.

As an OT for 40+ years I worked in various physical rehabilitation settings and academia. I am the founding editor of the Occupational Therapy in Acute Care textbook and have written multiple chapters in all three editions. I helped develop a series on acute care discharge planning, been a manuscript and proposal reviewer, and coauthored several articles and book chapters. I was also involved in my state OT association, and a member of the RA. I also assisted with the initial BCPR portfolio application process.

Empowering lives through listening, problem solving, and advocacy Dawn Albarado Sonnier, LOTR, CAPS, is a dedicated occupational therapy advocate with over 25 years of experience. She has built an illustrious career marked by innovation and leadership, making significant contributions to early childhood, policy change, and interdisciplinary collaboration. Dawn has received numerous awards, including Louisiana Occupational Therapist of the Year and the NBCOT Impact Award. Her leadership within the American Occupational Therapy Association underscores her commitment to advancing the profession and advocating for individuals with disabilities.

My success as a clinician & scientist is due to other talented individuals and luck! At Jefferson, I developed a passion for behavioral neuroscience as taught by Dr. Roseann Schaaf. I had fantastic clinical mentors early in my career at the Rehabilitation Institute of Chicago (Shirley Ryan AbilityLab)! After that preparation, mirror therapy and neural priming came naturally. My mentors Dr. Corcos & Dr. Perez are first-rate scientists. Thanks to family and OT & PT friends from UIC and DePaul who help sustain the course.

Dr. Michelle Suarez is dedicated fostering joyful engagement in occupation for vulnerable families and their children. This is reflected in her teaching, program development and research. Dr. Suarez is a developer and Director of the Resiliency Center for Families and Children. This center provides service for children with mental and behavioral health challenges and is engaged in workforce development and research to improve the lives of children who have experienced trauma or those who have neurobehavioral differences which impact quality of life.

Dr. Heather Thomas is a leader, educator, and author of the internationally acclaimed textbook Occupational and Activity Analysis. Dr. Thomas has secured grants, developed innovative programs, and mentored research. She provided extensive volunteer work and education in Haiti and has held a variety of service positions locally and nationally. She is certified in lifestyle medicine and integrates this into her work. Through public speaking and extensive leadership roles, she advances the OT profession through advocacy, curriculum development, and mentoring future leaders in the field.

Lindy Weaver is renowned for her expertise in mental health and her commitment to excellence in occupational therapy education. With 15 years of experience, she has dedicated her practice, teaching, scholarship, service, and leadership to improving the mental health of clients, OT students, faculty, and community members. Throughout her career, she has demonstrated depth, innovation, and inclusivity, leaving a lasting impact on the lives of those she serves.

Michelle Woodbury graduated with her OT degree from Elizabethtown College and was a full time neurorehabilitation OT in in- and out-patient adult rehabilitation settings before getting her PhD in Rehabilitation Science from the University of Florida. She is currently a full professor with tenure at the Medical University of South Carolina. She is an award winning educator, mentor and scholar and had been continuously funded with NIH, VA, PCORI and/or Foundational grant funding for 15 years, and is a well-published rehabilitation scientist.