A BOLD step
Belonging, Opportunities, and Leadership Development (BOLD) is AOTA's integrated framework designed to expand and sustain equitable access, inclusive leadership, and professional visibility within occupational therapy.
Advancing belonging & leadership across the OT journey
BOLD is a framework designed to strengthen the occupational therapy community by intentionally cultivating connection, access, and growth at every stage of the professional journey. BOLD builds on the proven success of the Diverse Leaders Program (DLP) and the Recruitment, Inclusion, Sustainability, and Education (RISE) Pathways Program and functions as:
- An umbrella framework that aligns DEIJAB, Ethics, Membership, and Leadership initiatives
- A scalable community-based model anchored by a dedicated virtual engagement platform
Building a thriving community
By nurturing a true sense of belonging, opening doors to new opportunities, building strong and confident leaders, and supporting each person’s ongoing development, BOLD helps ensure that everyone—no matter where they are in their career—has what they need to contribute, thrive, and help shape the future of occupational therapy. CE credits are not offered for this series.
The BOLD program components work together to create meaningful pathways for connection, growth, and long‑lasting impact in our profession.
BOLD Conversations: Mentoring Moments
Join Mentoring Moments, a group mentoring call just for AOTA members. Learn from experienced leaders in the field, talk through real career questions, and leave with people in your corner. These sessions will take place on the third Wednesday from August to December are focused on helping you find professional mentors and get honest feedback on your career questions. All sessions are held 7:30-9:00 p.m., ET.
Meet Your Mentor
Connect with the BOLD mentors and learn about their career paths, leadership experiences, and areas of expertise. This session provides an opportunity to build relationships, ask questions, and begin your mentoring journey.
Courageous Conversations: Leading With Integrity
Learn practical approaches for navigating challenging conversations with colleagues, supervisors, and teams while leading with integrity, empathy, accountability, and respect.
Beyond the Clinical Ladder: Expanding Your Career Pathways
Discover leadership opportunities beyond traditional clinical roles, including education, research, consulting, entrepreneurship, and professional association leadership.
Leading with Vision and Purpose
Develop the mindset and skills needed to lead with authenticity, integrity, and purpose. Participants will explore how to communicate a vision, influence others, and lead through change with confidence.
Fostering Well-Being: Preventing Burnout and Building Resilience
Explore practical strategies for maintaining personal well-being, preventing burnout, and building resilience while navigating the demands of leadership and clinical practice.
A BOLD connection
Be part of a movement that champions belonging and creates opportunities and mentoring connections. Stay connected with members on important topics that interest you.
Leadership programs
The Diverse Leaders Program (DLP) and RISE Pathways Program provide a supportive and inclusive leadership experience that help participants grow their skills, build confidence, and step into meaningful roles within the OT profession and the Association.
Diverse Leaders Program
The AOTA Diverse Leaders Program (DLP) was established to help nurture a new generation of leaders, aiming to better represent the communities served by occupational therapy. As part of the DLP, participants worked closely alongside professionals both inside and outside the field, tackling current and emerging topics with an emphasis on equitable and inclusive practices. Building on its foundation, the DLP grew into the RISE Pathways Program and expanded its scope.
RISE Pathways Program
The transition to RISE Pathways demonstrates the profession’s ongoing commitment to reducing entry barriers for individuals interested in pursuing a career in occupational therapy. Serving as a national model, RISE expands access and creates new opportunities for promoting awareness of OT. The RISE Pathways Program prepares Scholars to advocate for the profession and inspire future practitioners by building on the DLP’s foundation and setting the stage for long-term impact.
Leadership Development Certificate Workshop
The AOTA Leadership Development Certificate Workshop (LDCW) is a new leadership training initiative designed to prepare occupational therapy practitioners for leadership roles within the profession and the Association. Applications are open now.
Sandra Hoskins Legacy Foundation
BOLD is made possible by a generous grant from the Sandra Hoskins Legacy Foundation (SHLF). The mission of SHLF is to provide intentional support for effective charitable nonprofit organizations engaged in projects and activities that are consistent with the philanthropic interests of its Founding Director.
Founding Director, Sandra "Sandy" Hoskins, an occupational therapy practitioner, has committed more than 40 years of her life to the field of occupational therapy and her foundation focuses on providing quality housing and employment opportunities for individuals who have barriers to economic independence.
