Students in Action: Connecting, Learning, and Growing with OOTA
Celebrating Student Engagement at the 2026 OOTA Annual Conference
The 2026 Ohio Occupational Therapy Association (OOTA) Annual Conference brought together over 180
attendees for professional development, collaboration, and networking. More than 50 occupational therapy
(OT) and occupational therapy assistant (OTA) students attended, representing approximately 28% of
conference participants.
Student involvement continues to grow, with OOTA student membership increasing by approximately 12% over the past year. This growth creates new opportunities to connect students across Ohio and encourage early engagement in our professional community.
Student Knowledge Bowl: Competition with a Purpose
The Student Knowledge Bowl was a highlight of this year’s conference! Held on October 17, the event brought
together 16 students for friendly competition, teamwork, and networking. Participants tested their knowledge across various areas of OT practice while building connections with fellow students. The event also provided financial support for eight students preparing to take the National Board for Certification in Occupational
Therapy (NBCOT) examination.
Dr. Ann Bartman, President of Pi Theta Epsilon (PTE) and OOTA Conference Co-Chair, coordinated support among PTE chapters at the University of Findlay ($1,500), The Ohio State University ($1,500) and the University of Toledo ($125). These contributions fully covered examination registration costs for first-place winners and partially covered costs for second-place winners.
We thank Dr. Bartman, the participating PTE chapters, and the students from the University of Findlay who helped develop the competition’s question bank: Sophie Pobuda, Hanna Meyer, Torie Bockey-Oechsle, Makenna Belcher, and Riley Samples for their contributions. We look forward to continuing the Knowledge Bowl next year and invite OT and OTA programs across Ohio to help make it another success!
Looking Ahead: Future Opportunities for Students
OOTA is expanding opportunities for students to connect, learn, and contribute beyond the annual conference.
The OOTA Student Webpage provides information about student events, resources, and opportunities to get
involved. We are also developing a Student Research page where students can share research projects, surveys, and capstone experiences while connecting with peers across Ohio.
The 2027 OOTA Student Conclave will take place virtually on January 13–14, from 6:00–8:00 PM ET each evening. This free, two-day event welcomes all OT and OTA students, regardless of OOTA membership status, for professional development, networking, and guidance from practitioners across Ohio.
We would love your input! Help shape the 2027 Student Conclave by sharing your preferred topics and areas
of interest through the survey on the OOTA Student Webpage. We also invite OT practitioners and alumni to volunteer as panelists, breakout session facilitators, or guest speakers. Your participation will help us create an event that reflects the interests and needs of Ohio’s OT and OTA students.
Your Professional Journey Starts Here
My involvement with OOTA began as a student member and introduced me to professional connections, advocacy, and leadership opportunities that helped shape my professional identity. Now, as OOTA’s Student
Committee Chair, I am excited to build on these experiences by supporting students across Ohio.
My goal is to strengthen connections among OT and OTA programs, amplify student voices, and facilitate
opportunities for students to learn, lead, and advocate alongside practicing professionals. Whether you are
beginning your OT education or preparing to enter the profession, I encourage you to explore OOTA’s resources and connect with fellow members.
Your voice matters, and your involvement strengthens our profession. Together, we can build a more connected and engaged OT community across Ohio!
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