2025 Conference Reflection with Ann Bartman

written by Nathan Grizenko, OTD, OTR/L

 

As the 2025 Ohio Occupational Therapy Association (OOTA) Annual Conference came to a close, one thing was abundantly clear—this event was the product of extraordinary collaboration, dedication, and shared passion for the field of occupational therapy. Conference Chair Ann Bartman reflected on the experience, offering insight into the behind-the-scenes work, the power of community, and the inspiration that carried through the weekend.

 

Ann was quick to recognize the essential role of volunteers and subcommittees.

 

“Each subcommittee had a chair and any number of volunteer members to help provide input regarding the conference program, on-site hospitality, registration, sponsorship, and publicity,” she said. 

 

From reviewing proposals and award nominations to the help of student volunteers who kept the event running smoothly, she emphasized that “conference would not happen without subcommittees and volunteers!”

 

Attendee feedback echoed this spirit of engagement and excellence, according to Ann.

 

“I heard that the sessions were fantastic—so thanks to the presenters for sharing their knowledge! That’s truly what a conference is all about,” she said. 

 

While a few logistical challenges provided opportunities for improvement, she viewed them as part of the learning process, adding that she anticipates “many of the kinks will be worked out for the next conference.”

 

For Ann, the true success of the event lies in how participants carry their experiences forward. 

 

“I hope that everyone walked away having learned something or having made a connection, or even better, both,” she said. “If you can take one thing from the conference and implement it into your practice to benefit your clients, that’s a win in my book.”

 

She also shared some personal highlights, including inspiration from this year’s keynote speaker, Sabrena McCarley. 

 

“Her energy and passion for OT got me fired up, and I found myself talking about the Occupational Profile in my class the following week,” Ann said. 

 

Meeting students and practitioners from across the state added to the sense of excitement and connection that defined the event.

 

That sense of connection, Ann noted, was evident throughout the conference. 

 

“I saw so many people using break times to connect with others. Some were old friends or colleagues, and others were new acquaintances,” she said. Vendors and local businesses also played a part, helping to “spread the word about the amazing field of OT.”

 

Behind the scenes, coordinating a statewide event like this was no small task. Ann joked about the many hours of meetings she attended, including weekly planning sessions with OOTA staff, subcommittee chairs, and volunteers to ensure that every detail—from logistics to programming—supported the diverse needs of Ohio’s OT community. 

 

“It’s certainly a time commitment to chair a conference,” she added, “but the work is really that of the subcommittees and staff—they are getting it done and putting in the hard work.”

 

For Ann, this leadership role reflects her deep passion for occupational therapy and lifelong learning. 

 

“I am energized by the teaching and learning process, and I want clinicians to share the evidence-based work that they’re doing for the benefit of other practitioners and their clients,” she said.

 

As planning begins for the 2026 OOTA Conference, Ann’s reflections serve as both gratitude and inspiration—a reminder of what can be achieved when a community comes together with purpose, creativity, and a shared love for the profession.

 

Interested in getting involved? The success of each OOTA Conference depends on volunteers like you! If you’re interested in joining a conference subcommittee or volunteering for next year’s event, keep an eye on OOTA communications and social media for upcoming opportunities to connect, contribute, and make an impact.