Haggans and Tilton named NAP Distinguished Fellows

AOTA congratulates Jamar Haggans, MS, OTR/L, CPHQ, and Melissa Tilton, OTA, MS, COTA, ROH, who were inducted as Distinguished Fellows in the Occupational Therapy Academy by the National Academies of Practice (NAP) on March 14, 2026. This distinction is one of the highest honors bestowed by NAP, and Tilton is the first occupational therapy assistant honored.

“This acknowledgement highlights my belief that high-quality, equitable care depends not only on individual discipline expertise, but also on our ability to work collaboratively to fully meet client needs,” said Haggans of the honor. “The commitment to strengthening interdisciplinary collaboration remains at the forefront of my work, advancing systems where clients benefit most from our collective expertise. Thank you to the colleagues and mentors whose support has guided my journey.”

“This recognition reaffirms something I have long held true: we are better together. Whether collaborating across professions or strengthening the partnership between OTs and OTAs within our own field, the depth of our impact grows when we work in concert,” said Tilton. “I am deeply grateful for every colleague, student, and patient who has shaped my journey, this fellowship belongs to all of them.”

Nominated by peers, NAP Distinguished Fellows are recognized not only for excellence in their field, but also their dedication to collaboration across health professions. Haggans and Tilton, part of the Class of 2026, join other AOTA leaders who have received this honor, including Neil Harvison, PhD, OTR, FNAP, FAOTA; Julie Malloy, OTD, OTR/L, PMP, CPHQ, FNAP, FAOTA; and Sabrina Salvant, EdD, MPH, OTR/L, FAOTA.