The CAOT Conference is the biggest yearly gathering of occupational therapists and students of OT nationwide to present their research in rehabilitation, discuss clinical guidelines and educational practices, and reflect upon the state of the profession. It is a chance to build relationships, recognize the outstanding achievements of members of the profession, and, for our MOT students, present their research to their future colleagues.
This year’s CAOT Conference, held from May 7-9, featured nine oral presentations, 17 poster presentations, one extended discussion, and one sponsored session led by OSOT students, staff, faculty, and clinical faculty on a wide range of topics, including rheumatoid arthritis, artificial intelligence in OT, healthy aging, developmental coordination disorder, intersectional experiences, traumatic brain injury, gender-affirming care, OT education, and diversity in the health professions.
Associate Academic Fieldwork Coordinator and Clinical Associate Professor Jeff Boniface was officially presented with his 2025 CAOT-BC Outstanding Occupational Therapist of the Year Award. Previous recipients of the Muriel Driver Memorial Lectureship Award, including Professor Dr. Susan Forwell and Professor Emerita Dr. Catherine Backman, were recognized when this year’s award was presented.
The conference even allowed Professors Drs. Jill Zwicker and Ben Mortenson to meet up with MOT alumna Clarice Kwok!
Overall, the conference was full of joyous reunions, meaningful discussions of education and research in OT, and the chance to share insights with clinicians and scholars from across the country.
