OOTA Awards 2026
Each year, the Ohio Occupational Therapy Association (OOTA) honors individuals, groups, and organizations whose extraordinary contributions strengthen the occupational therapy profession across our state. From emerging practitioners and dedicated fieldwork educators to visionary leaders and legislative champions, these awards celebrate excellence, innovation, advocacy, and service.
This year’s Awards
Below you will find all 17 of the OOTA Awards for 2026. Each award is presented in its own section and includes:
- The full award description and selection criteria
- Eligibility requirements
- A nomination form
How to Nominate
- Click on an award below
- Review the criteria
- Click the button that says “Submit a Nomination – CLICK HERE” to be taken to a nomination form
Important Deadlines
All nominations must be submitted by July 20, 2026.
Questions?
Please contact ootastaff@gpsforgrowth.com
Thank you for helping us recognize excellence in occupational therapy throughout Ohio!
Award of Merit
About the Award
The Award of Merit is the highest honor bestowed by the Ohio Occupational Therapy Association. It recognizes an OOTA member who has demonstrated exceptional leadership, academic or clinical excellence, and a sustained commitment to the initiation, development, or advancement of occupational therapy in the state of Ohio. Recipients of this award have made outstanding and enduring contributions that strengthen the profession, elevate standards of practice, and support the growth and visibility of occupational therapy across the state. Their influence reflects vision, integrity, and a profound dedication to the mission of OOTA and the communities we serve.
Selection Criteria
Nominees should demonstrate excellence in most or all of the following areas:
Leadership in Advancing Occupational Therapy
Provides visionary leadership that has shaped or strengthened the development, delivery, or recognition of occupational therapy services in Ohio. Demonstrates sustained commitment to the growth and perpetuation of the profession statewide.
Contributions to Standards, Practice, or Facilities
Played a significant role in establishing, improving, or expanding occupational therapy programs, services, or facilities within Ohio. Contributed to the development, refinement, or dissemination of professional standards, models, or best practices.
Advocacy and/or Support
Demonstrated personal initiative or advocacy efforts that have advanced the profession or increased access to occupational therapy services. Provides resource-based support that promotes the establishment or expansion of occupational therapy in Ohio.
Professional Growth & Organizational Impact
Offered guidance, mentorship, or leadership that has supported the professional growth of practitioners, students, or emerging leaders. Contributed significantly to the development, visibility, or sustainability of OOTA through service, leadership, or strategic initiatives.
Additional Outstanding Contributions
Demonstrated exceptional achievements or service not captured above but clearly aligned with the spirit and purpose of the Award of Merit. Exhibited a lasting, positive impact on the profession, the association, or the communities served by occupational therapy.
Eligibility & Award Notes
Nominee must be a current OOTA member. Contributions may span clinical practice, education, administration, research, advocacy, or organizational leadership. One award will be presented each year.
Outstanding Contributions to Continuing Education
About the Award
The Continuing Education Award recognizes OOTA members who, through their expertise, leadership, and commitment to lifelong learning, have made a significant contribution to the continuing education and professional development of occupational therapy practitioners across Ohio. This award honors individuals whose efforts strengthen the knowledge base, skills, and growth of the occupational therapy community.
Selection Criteria
Nominees should demonstrate excellence in most or all of the following areas:
Outstanding Contributions to Continuing Education
Provides high-quality continuing education through workshops, lectures, seminars, in-service trainings, or conference presentations. Shares specialized knowledge or advanced skills that enhance professional competence within the occupational therapy community.
Advancement of Professional Knowledge
Contributes to the development or dissemination of research, evidence-based practice, or innovative therapeutic approaches. Authors or co-authors professional writings, publications, or educational resources that support practitioner learning.
Leadership in Educational Growth
Demonstrates leadership in planning, developing, or coordinating continuing education initiatives for OOTA or the broader occupational therapy community. Promotes a growth mindset of lifelong learning and professional excellence.
Support of Professional Development
Provides mentorship, guidance, or structured learning opportunities that foster the growth of OT/OTA practitioners and students. Advocates for accessible, high-quality continuing education within Ohio.
Impact on OOTA and the Profession
Strengthens OOTA’s mission through sustained contributions to professional development programming. Demonstrates a positive, measurable impact on the knowledge, skills, or advancement of occupational therapy practitioners in the state.
Eligibility & Award Notes
Nominee must be an OOTA member who has contributed significantly to continuing education efforts in Ohio. Contributions may occur through clinical practice, education, administration, research, or professional service. More than one award may be presented in a given year.
Lectureship Award
Selection Criteria
Nominees should demonstrate excellence in most or all of the following areas:
Contribution to the Body of Knowledge
Advances the profession through meaningful contributions in research, scholarly inquiry, or evidence-based practice. Demonstrates expertise that enhances understanding of occupational therapy theory, practice, or education.
Excellence in Education and Knowledge Sharing
Engages in high-quality teaching, mentorship, or professional development activities that elevate the competence of OT/OTA practitioners and students. Shares expertise through presentations, workshops, lectures, publications, or other professional dissemination.
Clinical Innovation and Professional Impact
Demonstrates exemplary clinical practice that contributes to the growth of the profession. Introduces or refines approaches that improve client outcomes, service delivery, or clinical reasoning within occupational therapy practice.
Commitment to Advancing the Occupational Therapy Community
Actively contributes to the professional growth of OOTA members through accessible, relevant, and impactful educational offerings. Serves as a role model for scholarly engagement and lifelong learning.
Willingness to Present the Lectureship
Agrees to deliver a lecture, talk, or workshop at the next OOTA Annual Conference, sharing their knowledge and expertise with the membership.
Eligibility
Nominee must be an OOTA member. Nominee must have contributed to the development of the profession’s knowledge base through research, education, or clinical practice. One award will be presented each year.
Non-Member Award for Continued Interest and Advocacy
Selection Criteria
Nominees should demonstrate excellence in most or all of the following areas:
Continued Interest and Advocacy for Occupational Therapy
Demonstrates a long-standing commitment to the promotion and advancement of occupational therapy. Actively supports occupational therapy initiatives, programs, or professional visibility within Ohio.
Leadership in the Development of Standards
Represents or advocates for occupational therapy among professional peers, healthcare partners, or community stakeholders. Provides guidance, counsel, or collaboration that has contributed to the development or refinement of occupational therapy standards, policies, or service models.
Advancement of Occupational Therapy in Ohio
Plays a significant role in introducing, establishing, or expanding occupational therapy services in areas where occupational therapy was previously limited or unknown. Sustains meaningful support for occupational therapy growth over an appropriate period of time.
Influence on Professional Development
Contributes to the professional development of occupational therapy practitioners or to the organizational growth of OOTA. Supports initiatives that strengthen the profession’s capacity, visibility, or effectiveness.
Eligibility
Nominee must be an individual outside the occupational therapy profession. Nominee must have demonstrated sustained interest in and promotion of occupational therapy in Ohio. Contributions may span healthcare, education, administration, community leadership, policy, or related fields. Up to two awards will be presented each year.
Honorary Membership Award
About this Award
The Honorary Membership Award is conferred upon individuals who have demonstrated distinguished service in the field of occupational therapy or who, through their professional or community influence, have meaningfully connected occupational therapy to broader public needs. This honor recognizes exceptional partners, advocates, and leaders whose contributions have strengthened the visibility, relevance, and impact of occupational therapy in Ohio.
Selection Criteria
Nominees should demonstrate excellence in one or both of the following areas:
Distinguished Service in Occupational Therapy
Recognized by peers, colleagues, or community partners for outstanding service that has advanced the field of occupational therapy. Demonstrates a sustained record of contributions that support occupational therapy practice, education, advocacy, or professional growth.
Professional or Community Leadership that Elevates Occupational Therapy
Holds a professional or community role that has effectively connected occupational therapy to public needs, priorities, or services. Promotes understanding of occupational therapy’s value through leadership, collaboration, advocacy, or public engagement.
Eligibility
Nominee does not need to be an OOTA member. Nominee may come from any professional or community background, provided their work has meaningfully supported or elevated occupational therapy. There is no limit to the number of Honorary Memberships that may be awarded.
Legislator Award
About this Award
The Legislator Award honors a political figure whose leadership, advocacy, and commitment have significantly advanced the profession of occupational therapy within the legislative arena. This award recognizes individuals who champion policies, initiatives, or legislative actions that strengthen occupational therapy practice, access, and visibility across the state of Ohio. Recipients demonstrate a clear dedication to supporting the needs of practitioners, clients, and the broader occupational therapy community.
Selection Criteria
Nominees should demonstrate excellence in one or more of the following areas:
Legislative Advocacy for Occupational Therapy
Actively supports legislation that promotes, protects, or expands occupational therapy services. Demonstrates a clear understanding of the value of occupational therapy and its impact on individuals, families, and communities.
Commitment to Advancing the Profession
Engages in policy efforts that enhance the professional standing, scope, or effectiveness of occupational therapy in Ohio. Collaborates with OOTA, stakeholders, or constituents to address issues affecting occupational therapy practice or access.
Leadership in Public Policy
Serves as a visible advocate for occupational therapy within legislative discussions, committees, or public forums. Uses their political platform to elevate awareness of occupational therapy’s role in health, education, and community well-being.
Eligibility
Nominee must be a political figure who has demonstrated meaningful support for occupational therapy through legislative action or advocacy. There is no limit to the number of Legislator Awards that may be presented each year.
Model Practice Award
About this Award
The Model Practice Award recognizes OOTA members who demonstrate outstanding achievement and excellence in the practice of occupational therapy within the state of Ohio. This award honors individuals or groups whose innovative, evidence-based, and client-centered approaches represent the highest standards of occupational therapy practice. Recipients exemplify leadership, creativity, and a commitment to advancing the profession through exemplary clinical work.
Selection Criteria
Nominees should demonstrate excellence in two or more of the following areas:
Innovative and Progressive Clinical Practice
Demonstrates state-of-the-art treatment approaches that reflect current best practices in occupational therapy. Implements creative, effective, or emerging interventions that enhance client outcomes.
Development of Assessment Tools or Clinical Resources
Contributes to the creation, refinement, or implementation of assessment tools that support high-quality occupational therapy practice. Advances clinical reasoning or service delivery through new or improved evaluation methods.
Professional Growth and Clinical Education
Provides guidance, mentorship, or supervision that supports the professional development of OT/OTA practitioners or students. Actively contributes to clinical education, fieldwork development, or staff training initiatives.
Commitment to Quality and Client Experience
Demonstrates leadership in continuous quality improvement, program development, or service enhancement. Shows measurable impact on client satisfaction, engagement, or outcomes.
Research and Scholarly Contributions
Participates in or leads research activities that inform or strengthen occupational therapy practice. Disseminates findings through presentations, publications, or professional forums.
Eligibility
Nominees may be individual OOTA members or a group of members working within the same facility. One award will be presented per individual practice area. There is no limit to the number of awards given annually. Nominees will be asked to submit a proposal to present a workshop at the next OOTA Annual Conference.
Service Award
About this Award
The Service Award recognizes OOTA members who have provided meaningful and sustained service to the Association and/or the profession of occupational therapy at the state level. This award honors individuals whose time-limited or task-specific contributions, as well as service in state offices or working bodies of OOTA, have strengthened the organization and advanced the profession in Ohio. Recipients exemplify dedication, reliability, and a commitment to professional service.
Selection Criteria
Nominees should demonstrate excellence in two or more of the following areas:
Sustained Service to OOTA
Provides ongoing service to a working body of OOTA at the state level, such as committees, task forces, councils, or special initiatives. Demonstrates consistent engagement, follow-through, and meaningful contribution over time.
Contributions that Benefit the Profession and the Association
Participates in activities that support the mission, operations, or strategic goals of OOTA. Contributes to the advancement of occupational therapy practice, advocacy, education, or professional development in Ohio.
Service in State-Level Roles
May have served in an elected or appointed state office within OOTA. Demonstrates leadership, professionalism, and commitment in fulfilling state-level responsibilities.
Impact Through Time-or Task-Limited Activities
Provides valuable service through short-term projects, special assignments, or event-based responsibilities that support OOTA’s work. Enhances the effectiveness or visibility of the Association through targeted contributions.
Eligibility
Nominee must be an individual member of OOTA. There is no limit to the number of recipients each year. Individuals may receive this award multiple times.
Fieldwork Educator Award
Selection Criteria
Commitment to Ongoing Professional Development
Participates in continuing education related to supervision, teaching, mentoring, and evaluation of student learning. Demonstrates a commitment to staying current with best practices in fieldwork education.
Ethical, Evidence-Based, and Occupation-Centered Practice
Models high-quality clinical practice grounded in ethical decision-making and evidence-based interventions. Demonstrates consistent use of occupation-centered approaches in client care.
Positive Student Evaluations
Receives strong evaluations from students who have completed fieldwork experiences under their supervision. Creates a supportive, structured, and growth-oriented learning environment.
Sustained Fieldwork Experience
Has a minimum of five years of consistent experience providing fieldwork education to OT or OTA students.
Effective Interprofessional Collaboration
Demonstrates proactive collaboration with other professionals and serves as a role model for effective teamwork. Encourages students to develop strong communication and collaboration skills.
Master Clinician Skills
Exhibits advanced clinical reasoning and therapeutic skills characteristic of a master clinician. Clearly articulates and models these skills for students.
Individualized Supervision and Student Support
Recognizes the unique strengths, needs, and learning styles of each student. Adapts supervisory approaches to support student success and professional growth.
Self-Evaluation and Program Improvement
Actively evaluates their own effectiveness as a supervisor. Contributes to ongoing improvement of the fieldwork program at their site.
Contributions Beyond the Fieldwork Site
Engages in educational activities outside the clinical setting, such as: providing in-services, guest lecturing at OT/OTA programs, speaking at community events, assisting with admissions interviews, serving on committees within OT/OTA education programs.
Professional Leadership
Demonstrates leadership within professional associations that promote the values and advancement of occupational therapy.
Eligibility
Nominee must be an OOTA member. Nominee must meet the criteria for excellence in fieldwork education as outlined above. There is no limit to the number of awards that may be presented.
Fieldwork Site Award
Selection Criteria
Professional Membership and Engagement
A majority of the occupational therapy staff maintain membership in AOTA and/or OOTA, demonstrating commitment to professional involvement and standards.
Fieldwork Education as a Defined Professional Role
Performance standards for advancement include effective functioning as a fieldwork educator.
High-Quality Fieldwork Manual and Resources
Maintains an exemplary fieldwork manual for OT and OTA students. Demonstrates an ongoing review and update process to ensure relevance and clarity.
Quality Assurance in Fieldwork Education
Implements quality assurance monitoring related to fieldwork education, such as evaluation processes, feedback systems, or program improvement initiatives.
Excellence in Occupational Therapy Practice
Holds a strong reputation for exceptional occupational therapy practice within its service area. Demonstrates ethical, evidence-based, and occupation-centered practice across staff.
Use of the Occupational Therapy Practice Framework (OTPF-4)
Staff demonstrate working knowledge and consistent application of the OTPF in evaluation, intervention, and documentation.
Sustained Commitment to Fieldwork Education
Has provided at least three years of consistent fieldwork education to OT and OTA students.
Collaboration with Academic Institutions
Engages in strong partnerships with academic programs, including: hosting site visits, participating in fieldwork-related educational activities, supporting communication and coordination with academic fieldwork coordinators.
Staff Development in Teaching and Supervision
Supports ongoing staff development in areas such as: teaching and instructional methods, assessment of student learning, supervisory and mentorship skills.
Adaptability in Challenging Student Situations
Demonstrates commitment to managing and adapting to challenging student placements, including identifying alternative supervisors or modifying assignments when needed.
Inclusive Acceptance of Students
Accepts both OT and OTA students for Level I and Level II fieldwork placements.
Positive Student Evaluations
Consistently receives strong evaluations from Level I and Level II students regarding the quality of supervision, learning environment, and clinical experience.
Institutional Commitment to Fieldwork Education
Demonstrates organizational support for the fieldwork program, including: meeting student accommodation needs under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), providing resources that support student success.
Creative and Innovative Supervision Models
Utilizes creative, flexible, or innovative supervision models that enhance student learning and reflect best practices in fieldwork education.
Eligibility
Any fieldwork site in Ohio that meets the above criteria may be nominated. Sites must demonstrate excellence in both clinical practice and student education. There is no limit to the number of awards that may be presented.
OTA/OT Partnership/Collaboration Award
About this Award
The OTA/OT Partnership/Collaboration Award recognizes an outstanding Occupational Therapy Assistant (OTA) and Occupational Therapist (OT) team whose collaborative practice exemplifies the highest standards of the profession. This award honors partnerships that demonstrate exceptional communication, shared clinical reasoning, and a unified commitment to client-centered, evidence-based care.
Recipients of this award model the power of interprofessional respect within the occupational therapy profession and highlight how strong OTA-OT collaboration enhances outcomes, strengthens service delivery, and elevates the visibility of occupational therapy across Ohio.
This award celebrates teams who go beyond routine collaboration—those who innovate, advocate, educate, and inspire through their partnership.
Selection Criteria
Nominees should demonstrate excellence in two or more of the following areas:
Exemplary Collaborative Practice
Demonstrates consistent, effective communication and mutual respect. Shares clinical reasoning, planning, and problem-solving in ways that enhance client outcomes. Shows a clear understanding and appreciation of each partner’s distinct role and scope of practice.
Impact on Client Outcomes
Partnership results in measurable or observable improvements in client participation, safety, independence, or quality of life. Demonstrates creative or evidence-based approaches developed or strengthened through collaboration.
Advocacy and Professional Leadership
Advocates for the role of OT and OTA practitioners within their setting or community. Promotes ethical, client-centered practice, and models professional integrity. May include involvement in program development, quality improvement, or policy initiatives.
Contribution to the Occupational Therapy Community
Supports student learning, fieldwork education, or mentorship of colleagues. Shares knowledge through presentations, in-services, community outreach, or professional engagement. Strengthens the visibility and value of OTA-OT collaboration within Ohio.
Innovation and Initiative
Demonstrates creativity in addressing challenges or improving service delivery. Implements new ideas, programs, or processes that reflect the strengths of the partnership.
Eligibility
Nominees must include one OTA and one OT who work collaboratively in any practice setting in Ohio. At least one member of the partnership must be an OOTA member. Partnerships may be nominated by colleagues, supervisors, students, or community partners. One award will be presented each year.
OTA Entry Level Achievement Award
About this Award
The OTA Entry Level Achievement Award recognizes an outstanding Occupational Therapy Assistant who has been in practice for three years or less and has already demonstrated exceptional promise in the profession. This award honors emerging practitioners who show strong clinical skills, professionalism, initiative, and a clear commitment to client-centered, evidence-based occupational therapy. Recipients exemplify the values of the occupational therapy profession and demonstrate the potential to become future leaders within their practice settings and the Ohio occupational therapy community.
Selection Criteria
Nominees should demonstrate excellence in two or more of the following areas:
Clinical Competence & Professional Growth
Demonstrates strong foundational OTA skills and sound clinical reasoning. Actively seeks feedback, mentorship, and opportunities for professional development. Shows rapid growth and adaptability within their early career.
Client-Centered Practice
Provides compassionate, ethical, and individualized care. Positively impacts client participation, independence, or quality of life. Uses evidence-informed approaches appropriate to their practice setting.
Initiative & Contribution to the Workplace
Takes initiative in problem-solving, program development, or improving service delivery. Demonstrates reliability, teamwork, and a strong work ethic. Contributes positively to workplace culture and collaboration.
Advocacy, Leadership & Professional Engagement
Promotes the value of occupational therapy within their setting or community. Participates in professional activities, continuing education, or association involvement. Shows early leadership qualities or involvement in student support, onboarding, or education.
Potential for Future Impact
Exhibits qualities that indicate long-term potential as a leader, mentor, or innovator in occupational therapy practice. Demonstrates passion for the profession and a commitment to ongoing growth.
Eligibility
Nominee must be a licensed Occupational Therapy Assistant (OTA) practicing in Ohio. Must be a current member of OOTA. Must have three years or less of professional practice at the time of nomination. One award will be presented each year.
OT Entry Level Achievement Award
Selection Criteria
Nominees should demonstrate excellence in two or more of the following areas:
Clinical Competence & Professional Growth
Demonstrates strong foundational occupational therapy skills and sound clinical reasoning. Actively seeks mentorship, feedback, and opportunities for continuing education. Shows adaptability, growth, and reflective practice early in their career.
Client-Centered, Evidence-Based Practice
Provides ethical, individualized, and culturally responsive care. Positively influences client participation, independence, or quality of life. Integrates evidence-informed approaches appropriate to their setting.
Initiative & Contribution to the Workplace
Takes initiative in problem-solving, program development, or improving service delivery. Demonstrates reliability, teamwork, and a collaborative spirit. Contributes positively to workplace culture and interprofessional relationships.
Advocacy, Leadership & Professional Engagement
Promotes the value of occupational therapy within their setting or community. Participates in professional development, association involvement, or community outreach. Shows early leadership qualities, including support for students, onboarding, or education.
Potential for Future Impact
Exhibits qualities that indicate long-term potential as a leader, mentor, or innovator. Demonstrates passion for the profession and a commitment to ongoing growth.
Eligibility
Nominee must be a licensed Occupational Therapist (OT) practicing in Ohio. Must be a current member of OOTA. Must have three years or less of professional practice at the time of nomination. One award will be presented each year.
Outstanding OT Student Award
Selection Criteria
Nominees should demonstrate excellence in two or more of the following areas:
Professional Involvement and Leadership
Serves on committees, boards, clubs, or leadership groups within their academic program, district, state, or national occupational therapy associations. Acts as a student leader, organizer, or representative in professional or community initiatives.
Mentorship and Service
Provides mentorship to peers, prospective students, or community members. Contributes to activities that promote the visibility and understanding of occupational therapy.
Scholarly and Professional Contributions
Authors or publishes articles for AOTA, OOTA, OT Practice, or other professional outlets. Presents at state or national conferences, workshops, or educational events.
Advocacy and Promotion of Occupational Therapy
Engages in advocacy efforts that support the profession, clients, or communities. Participates in events, campaigns, or initiatives that elevate the role of occupational therapy in Ohio.
Engagement in Professional Development
Attends or participates in in-services, conferences, district meetings, or other continuing education opportunities. Serves as an AOTA state delegate or participates in national governance or student leadership roles.
Eligibility
Nominee must be an OT student member of OOTA. Nominee must have a GPA of 2.5 or higher. Up to two awards may be presented each year.
Sharon K. Ashworth Outstanding OTA Student Award
About this Award
The Sharon K. Ashworth Outstanding OTA Student Award recognizes Occupational Therapy Assistant student members of OOTA who demonstrate exceptional initiative, leadership, and commitment to advancing the profession. This award honors students who actively promote occupational therapy within their communities and contribute to the professional growth of occupational therapy through meaningful engagement at the district, state, and/or national levels. Recipients exemplify service, advocacy, professionalism, and emerging leadership within the OTA community.
Selection Criteria
Nominees should demonstrate excellence in two or more of the following areas:
Professional Involvement and Leadership
Serves on committees, boards, clubs, or leadership groups within their academic program or professional associations. Participates in leadership roles at the district, state, or national level.
Mentorship and Service
Provides mentorship to peers, prospective students, or community members. Engages in activities that promote the visibility and understanding of occupational therapy.
Scholarly and Professional Contributions
Authors or publishes articles for AOTA, OOTA, OT Practice, or other professional outlets. Presents at state or national conferences, workshops, or educational events.
Advocacy and Promotion of Occupational Therapy
Advocates for the profession through community engagement, public education, or participation in professional initiatives. Promotes occupational therapy within academic, clinical, or community settings.
Engagement in Professional Development
Attends or participates in in-services, conferences, district meetings, or other continuing education opportunities. Serves as an AOTA state delegate or participates in national governance or student leadership roles.
Eligibility
Nominee must be an OTA student member of OOTA. Nominee must have a GPA of 2.5 or higher. Up to two awards will be presented each year.
Extraordinary Service Certificate
Selection Criteria
Nominees should demonstrate excellence in two or more of the following areas:
Extraordinary Service Beyond Expected Duties
Provides contributions or support that clearly exceed normal professional roles or responsibilities. Demonstrates initiative, dedication, or leadership that meaningfully benefits the occupational therapy profession or OOTA.
Significant Impact on Occupational Therapy in Ohio
Offers services, resources, or advocacy efforts that have markedly advanced occupational therapy practice, education, visibility, or access within the state. Contributes to initiatives that strengthen the occupational therapy community or enhance the profession’s reach and effectiveness.
Support from Members or Non-Members
May be an OOTA member or a non-member whose actions have had a substantial positive impact on the profession. Non-member nominees must demonstrate contributions that have clearly and directly benefited occupational therapy in Ohio.
Contributions by Individuals or Groups
Eligible nominees may include individual practitioners, teams, committees, organizations, or community partners whose collective efforts have supported the mission of OOTA.
Eligibility
Nominees may be members or non-members of OOTA. Nominees may be individuals or groups. Contributions must be extraordinary and clearly beneficial to the advancement of occupational therapy in Ohio. There is no limit to the number of certificates that may be awarded.
Lifetime Achievement Award
Selection Criteria
Nominees should demonstrate excellence in two or more of the following areas:
Sustained Professional Excellence
Demonstrates a long-standing record of high-quality, ethical, client-centered practice. Serves as a role model for professionalism, integrity, and commitment to lifelong learning.
Significant Contributions to the OT Profession
Has made impactful contributions to practice, education, research, administration, or policy. Demonstrates leadership that has advanced the profession at the local, state, or national level.
Service to OOTA and the OT Community
Provides sustained service to OOTA through leadership roles, committee work, advocacy, or mentorship. Actively supports the growth and development of OT/OTA practitioners and students.
Advocacy & Leadership
Advocates for the role and value of occupational therapy within healthcare, education, or community systems. Influences positive change through program development, legislative engagement, or public outreach.
Lasting Impact & Legacy
Leaves a meaningful, measurable, and enduring impact on the profession in Ohio. Demonstrates a career marked by innovation, dedication, and contributions that will benefit future practitioners.
Eligibility
Nominee must be an OT or OTA with a long-standing career of service and impact in Ohio. Must be an OOTA member in good standing or have a history of significant contributions to the association. Nominations may be submitted by colleagues, supervisors, mentees, or professional partners. One award will be presented each year.
Join Us at the 2026 OOTA Annual Conference!
October 16–17, 2026 | Columbus, Ohio
The awards presented through this nomination process will be celebrated live at the 2026 OOTA Annual Conference. Plan to join your colleagues for two days of learning, networking, and recognition.