Lindy Boggs Award

Description and purpose

• To recognize the significant contributions by an occupational therapist (OT) or occupational therapy assistant (OTA) in promoting occupational therapy in the political arena by increasing recognition of occupational therapy in federal or state legislation, regulation, and/or policy or by increasing appreciation and understanding of occupational therapy by elected or appointed officials.
• To provide an incentive for others to take an active role in the legislative process, advocacy, and/or policy making that affects occupational therapy.

Minimal requirements

• Current Association staff shall not be eligible for this award.
• The nominee(s) shall have demonstrated outstanding contributions in one or more of the following categories:
  • Assuming an active role in training and organizing occupational therapy practitioners to have an impact on federal or state legislation, regulations, and/or policies.
  • Educating legislators or other key government officials about the purpose and function of occupational therapy.
  • Responding to requests for action from the Public Affairs division of the Association.
  • Acting as an advocate for consumers of health care and educational services.
  • Playing an active role in state activities related to the American Occupational Therapy Political Action Committee (AOTPAC) and/or state political action committees.

Specific information regarding award

• One award may be given per year.