Each year we take the opportunity to celebrate our wonderful Clinical Faculty. An inspiring fieldwork educator can have a profound and life-changing impact on a trainee: sharing learnings from experience, tips and guidance from years of specialist expertise, and meaningful support to ease the transition from the classroom to the clinical setting.
The fieldwork component to the Master of Occupational Therapy program is invaluable for preparing and expanding the expertise and knowledge base of our trainee OTs, helping to develop preferences for specialisms, as well as cultivating networks and building confidence ready for their own practice.
We extend our heartfelt gratitude to all our Clinical Faculty members, with special recognition to our award-winning Fieldwork Educators.
Alexis Davis
Assistant Professor of Teaching and Academic Fieldwork Coordinator
Canadian Association of Occupational Therapists (CAOT)
Fieldwork Educator Award
Mary Lau
Providence Health Care – Mount St Joseph Hospital
The purpose of the Canadian Association of Occupational Therapists Fieldwork Educator Award of Excellence is to acknowledge the contribution of a practice educator who demonstrates exceptional performance in student practice teaching and in student mentoring in the workplace, and who represents a gold standard in inspiring students to passionately pursue professional practice.
Mary was recognized as the winner at the CAOT Conference in May 2025.
Mary is an exemplar of interprofessional collaboration, professionalism, and communication. On the geriatric psychiatry unit, Mary demonstrated genuine engagement in all aspects of the unit. Other staff sought out and deeply appreciated her advice which speaks to her credibility and strong relationships. Mary also facilitated numerous shadowing opportunities throughout the hospital so I could develop a better understanding of other healthcare professionals’ roles and make appropriate referrals.
Mary has also been exceedingly generous in imparting her life and career advice. She gave me practical advice in seeking additional education to improve my clinical skills and to advance my career. She also demonstrated vulnerability as she graciously shared mistakes/difficulties throughout her career for me to learn from.
Chris Courtney Award for Excellence in Fieldwork Education
Sarah Burris
Joseph & Rosalie Segal & Family Health Centre, Vancouver General Hospital
BCSOT established an award in 1996 in memory of Chris Courtney. Chris died suddenly and unexpectedly in 1996. Chris was an occupational therapist who was passionate about continuing education and giving back to her profession. She was a champion of student education and was described by occupational therapy students as an excellent fieldwork educator. This award will recognize those Occupational Therapists who demonstrate excellence in and commitment to the clinical education of Occupational Therapy students.
The award is presented annually to an Occupational Therapy fieldwork educator who has demonstrated excellence in fieldwork education.
My placement with Sarah was the first time I really felt myself developing as an independent therapist. She allowed me to take on my own caseload and complete patient sessions independently. She challenged me to take on more independence and had confidence in me even when I was wary of my own abilities. She validated and encouraged me while always taking the time to ensure I was prepared. Throughout my placement, I was well supported and given frequent opportunities to connect and debrief with her.
I admired the way that Sarah showed up for her patients with authenticity, and created such a safe and healing space for them to connect in. Beyond this, she was a consistent advocate for her patients and for occupational therapy in rounds.
I am genuinely grateful to have had Sarah as a preceptor and will strive to translate her teachings into my own practice.
Regional Fieldwork Educator Awards
The Regional Fieldwork Educator Awards were established in 2022 to allow Occupational Therapy students to formally recognize fieldwork educators who have had a significantly positive impact on their fieldwork education.
BC has five regional health areas that deliver health services both in the public and private sectors.
The 2025 Regional Fieldwork Educator Awards go to:
Fraser Region:
Jaqueline Brower
Queens Park Care Centre
Jaqueline is an outstanding educator and mentor.
Her enthusiasm for student education is evident in every interaction. Jaqueline goes beyond standard teaching practices by embracing neuro-affirming care, ensuring that all students feel safe, valued, and supported in their learning journey.
She encourages curiosity and fosters a sense of psychological safety, allowing students to ask questions freely and engage in meaningful discussions even in high-pressure environments.
Interior Region:
Charlotte Killick
Royal Inland Hospital
The impact Charlotte had on my clinical practice and future career is profound. Her dedication to teaching, thoughtful guidance, and high standards of care have shaped my understanding of what it means to be an exceptional occupational therapist.
She inspired me to strive for excellence in both clinical skills and patient advocacy, leaving a lasting impression that will guide my future practice.
Vancouver Island:
David Beagley
Queen Alexandra Centre for Children’s Health – Ledger House
As a mentor, David strikes the ideal balance between offering direct support and stepping back to let students discover their own capabilities. This fosters both confidence and growth, allowing students to develop their clinical reasoning and personal style within a safe, respectful environment.
His thoughtful guidance is matched by his remarkable ability to build rapport with young clients navigating complex mental health challenges—skills that he models with grace and consistency.
Northern Region:
Lisa Ireland
University Hospital of Northern BC
Lisa had a very natural approach to being a preceptor. I never felt like I was being taught but guided through practicing as an OT in a busy regional hospital.
She did an excellent job at gradually progressing my workload, independence, and level of patient complexity throughout the placement. I was never overwhelmed and was able to build skills and confidence in purposeful layers. She did a really great job at integrating me into the work culture and I really felt as though I were part of the team.
Jayme Peel
Prince Rupert Regional Hospital
Jayme – the kindest, most supportive preceptor I could’ve hoped for.
She created an incredibly safe and welcoming environment. Even while supervising two students at once, she always made time for us. My favourite moments were our Friday one-on-ones. She would sit down, truly listen, and give us space to reflect and grow.
Jayme trusted us with real responsibilities and encouraged our creativity. Despite her many years of experience, she remained humble – sometimes even questioning herself out loud. That level of vulnerability taught me so much.
Vancouver Region:
Kaitlin Peterson
GF Strong Rehabilitation Centre
From day one, Kaitlin trusted me to be the lead OT on our caseload allowing clients and families to view me as their primary contact. This confidence early on profoundly shaped my professional identity.
Kaitlin embodies the core values of occupational therapy: holistic, client-centered, and empowering. She invests deeply in her students’ growth, treating them not as students, but as future professionals.
Congratulations to the award winners and to all nominated!
Image credits: Confetti image (Ambreen Hasan/Unsplash). Trophy image (Giorgio Trovato/Unsplash). Portraits provided by individuals.