Thank you to all RI Occupational Therapy Practitioners for all that you do we are grateful for you and Congratulations to all of our 2023 award winners

 Fieldwork Educator of the Year: Bethany Pratt

“Bethany is an exemplary fieldwork educator for OTA and MSOT students. She has implemented numerous occupation-based programs within the community, primarily in the field of mental health, that enhance the lives of the participants and promote the academic experience for OT students within the state of RI. Bethany exemplifies her enthusiasm for the profession of OT in everything she does.”

Occupational Therapy Community Impact Award: Chuck Wilmarth

“Chuck has been with AOTA for more than 20 years and has always been available to state associations in supporting local efforts in the areas of state regulations, scope of practice and payment issues. Mr. Willmarth is learning AOTA’s work in the Interstate Compact and works closely with the AOTA ASAP group. In addition to his stated duties, Mr. Willmarth is respected and appreciated by state board leadership for his willingness and ability to provide direction and guidance in the wide variety of areas within AOTA”

Occupational Therapy Practitioner of the Year: Susan Steiner

“Susan exemplifies the holistic nature of occupational therapy and the ability to adapt into cutting edge areas of practice, while empowering others to reach the height of their skills through mentorship. Her goal to support and facilitate the next generation of OTs and other professionals in the manual therapy areas in now internationally available. Susan both by her work and example is a clear picture of the breadth and depth of Occupational Therapy”

Occupational Therapy Innovator of the Year: Amy Laurent

“Dr. Laurent is an innovative occupational therapist and developmental psychologist who has spent her career supporting individuals with autism through education, advocacy, program development, creating empowerment and self advocacy programs”