Lindy Boggs Award
Established in 1982, the Lindy Boggs Award recognizes occupational therapists and occupational therapy assistants who have made significant, sustained contributions to advancing occupational therapy in the political and legislative arena. Recipients have demonstrated exceptional skill in shaping policy, influencing elected and appointed officials, and building a legislative culture within the profession.
Spirit of the Award
This award honors sustained high-impact engagement in the political and legislative arena. Recipients have produced documented, measurable influence on policy, regulation, or the legislative standing of the profession, not through a single event, but through ongoing commitment.
Description and Purpose
- To recognize an OT or OTA who has made significant contributions to promoting occupational therapy in the political arena by increasing recognition of occupational therapy in federal or state legislation, regulation, and/or policy.
- To honor those who have increased appreciation and understanding of occupational therapy among elected or appointed officials.
- To provide an incentive for occupational therapy practitioners to take an active role in the legislative process, advocacy, and/or policy making that affects occupational therapy.
Criteria
The nominee must be an OT or OTA who is a current AOTA member in good standing. Current Association staff are not eligible. Nominations must demonstrate sustained legislative or political contribution, documented outcomes, and influence beyond a single initiative or event.
The nominee must demonstrate outstanding contributions in one or more of the following:
- Assuming an active, sustained role in training and organizing occupational therapy practitioners to have an impact on federal or state legislation, regulations, and/or policies.
- Educating legislators or other key government officials about the purpose and function of occupational therapy with documented outcomes.
- Responding to and organizing responses to requests for action from the Public Affairs division of the Association.
- Acting as an advocate for consumers of health care and educational services at a legislative or policy level.
- Playing a sustained active role in AOTPAC and/or state political action committee activities.
What Does Not Qualify Alone
General advocacy work, individual-level consumer advocacy, or clinical education about the profession without a clear legislative, regulatory, or political component does not meet the criteria. A single event, one-time testimony, or brief engagement without sustained contribution is not sufficient.
Previous recipients
The following members have been awarded the Lindy Boggs Award.