Award for Excellence in the Advancement of Occupational Therapy

Spirit of the Award

This award represents the Association's own recognition of a contribution so unmistakable in scope and impact that it stands outside the normal nomination process. It honors individuals or groups, members and non-members alike, whose service has materially changed occupational therapy's reach, recognition, or relevance. Recipients are distinguished by the singular significance of what they did, not by years of involvement or position.

Description and Purpose

This award recognizes individuals or groups whose contributions to the advancement of occupational therapy are extraordinary in scope and clearly beyond the expectations of normal professional duties or responsibilities. It honors those who have served the profession or its consumers in ways that have materially changed occupational therapy’s reach, recognition, or relevance.

Criteria

The contribution must meet all of the following:

Extraordinary Contribution

• The contribution is extraordinary in scope and clearly distinguishable from standard performance of professional duties.
• Contributions may include but are not limited to: significant political support for occupational therapy, pioneering innovative or emerging practice, or an outstanding leadership role that advanced the profession.

Eligibility — AOTA Members

• Individual or group whose services or contributions are clearly beyond those of normal professional duties or responsibilities.

Eligibility — Non-Members

• Individual or group whose services or contributions have markedly benefited occupational therapy and whose work warrants the Association’s formal expression of appreciation.

What Does Not Qualify Alone

Performing well in a standard professional role, holding leadership positions as part of paid employment, or making contributions within the ordinary scope of one’s job does not meet the criteria. The award is reserved for contributions that are extraordinary in nature, scale, or impact, and that the Association deems worthy of formal recognition.

Note on Process

This award is conferred by the Association. The Awards Committee evaluates whether the contribution meets the threshold of extraordinary as defined above.