Distinguished Educator Award

Description and purpose

• To acknowledge educators who demonstrate excellence in teaching and learning.
• To acknowledge educators with a commitment to evidence-based practice.
• To honor educators making a difference in the lives of students and their communities.
• To recognize educators developing future leaders.

Minimal requirements

• The nominee(s) shall be an occupational therapist (OT) or occupational therapy assistant (OTA) member who is in good standing of the Association & their state organization at the time of the nomination and presentation of the award.
• The nominee(s) shall be an educator in an ACOTE-accredited entry-level degree program.
• The nominee(s) shall demonstrate sustained experience as an OT/OTA educator.
• The nominee shall demonstrate evidence of, including but not limited to:
  • Excellence in teaching and learning through the incorporation of best practices in adult education (e.g., assessing learner outcomes, engaging students in the classroom, using innovative teaching approaches, and using evidence-based teaching approaches for adult learners).
  • Commitment to evidence-based practice (e.g., teaching evidence-based content, training students to understand and apply evidence, or empowering students to contribute to the profession’s body of evidence).
  • Impact on the lives of students beyond the classroom.
  • Impact on broader regional, professional, or institutional communities (e.g., service learning, continuing education, development of new programs or services, or advocacy).
  • Recognition from a variety of sources including fellow educators, students, administrators, and community members.
  • Development of professional leaders.
  • Mentorship of fellow educators.
  • Sustained commitment over time.

Specific information regarding award

One educator who is an OT and one educator who is an OTA will be recognized per year.