University of Missouri Occupational Therapy

10/28/2026

OTPs - which webinars will you attend? Earn up to 10 FREE Contact Hours! Everyday from 12:00 - 1:00 on Zoom 11/16-11/20 & 11/30 - 12/4! Swipe to see what's being offered! Hosted by 3rd year OTD students.

10/23/2026

OTPs mark your calendars! The 2026 Webinar Series hosted by our 3rd year OTD students is coming up. The webinars will occur on Zoom from 12:00 - 1:00 each day the week 11/16-11/20 & 11/30-12/4! Earn up to 10 FREE Contact Hours! Scroll through to see the topics...

10/23/2026

More buzz about therapeutic beekeeping and its impact on our veterans. Our OTA-B and OTD students were able to visit and see this first hand.

Heroes to Hives is a free sit-down beekeeping operation for veterans at Jefferson Farm and Garden.

10/23/2026

🎉 Meet Mizzou OT’s newest Student Ambassadors!

Please join us in welcoming Regan Counts, Andrea Gill, Sophia Mudd, Audrey Phillips, Ellie Scheer and Leah Tiffany to the ambassador team. These OTA and OT students will help share the Mizzou OT experience, connect with prospective students and represent our program throughout the year.

We’re excited to see the energy, leadership and unique perspectives they bring to Mizzou Occupational Therapy. Congratulations and welcome to the team!

10/21/2026

What’s the buzz in OT? 🐝

Dr. Gateley’s Psychosocial Aspects of OT class took learning beyond the classroom with a visit to Jefferson Farm and Garden! Karen Funkenbusch and Kirk Funkenbusch of MU Extension introduced students to therapeutic beekeeping and the Heroes to Hives program, which brings together accessible agriculture, wellness and community for veterans and their families.

And because every great class needs a few surprise participants, farm cats Ham and Beans joined the group for the lesson!

Learn more about the Heroes to Hives program: www.extension.missouri.edu/programs/heroes-to-hives

10/20/2026

Please join us in congratulating Dr. Rebecca Fenton on being named the recipient of the Missouri Occupational Therapy Association's 2026 Outstanding Educator Award!

This prestigious award recognizes an administrator, supervisor, or educator who promotes professionalism, quality care, and the advancement of the occupational therapy profession while serving as a positive role model for staff and students.

Dr. Fenton embodies each of these qualities every day through her dedication to student success, commitment to excellence in teaching, and passion for preparing the next generation of occupational therapy practitioners. Her impact extends far beyond the classroom, inspiring students, colleagues, and the profession as a whole.

We are incredibly proud to celebrate this well-deserved recognition and grateful for the leadership, mentorship, and expertise she brings to Mizzou OT.

Congratulations, Dr. Fenton!

10/19/2026

Please join us in congratulating Dr. Meghan Doherty on receiving the Missouri Occupational Therapy Association's 2026 Impactful OT Award!

This award recognizes an individual who has demonstrated exceptional commitment to advancing occupational therapy in Missouri through dedication to clients, mentorship of peers, and innovative contributions that strengthen the profession.

Dr. Doherty’s influence can be seen in the students she mentors, the colleagues she supports, and the meaningful contributions she makes to occupational therapy education and practice. Her passion, leadership, and commitment to excellence continue to shape the future of the profession and inspire those around her.

Your impact is clear, and this recognition is well deserved. Congratulations, Dr. Doherty!

10/16/2026

Today we wrap up this week's highlight of adaptive equipment that helps individuals engage in meaningful daily activities. Behind every adaptive device is a goal: greater independence, safety, and participation in everyday life.

📣Adaptive Equipment Spotlight: Personal Grooming

Occupational therapy practitioners (OTPs) help clients maintain independence in self-care routines, including grooming and hygiene.

🪥 Adapted Toothbrushes Built-up or enlarged handles improve grip for individuals with arthritis, weakness, or decreased hand coordination.

🪮 Long-Handled Hair Brushes Allow users to reach their hair with less shoulder movement and reduced strain.

✂️ Adaptive Nail Clippers Feature larger grips, mounted designs, or angled handles to improve control and reduce hand fatigue.

Small modifications can have a big impact, helping individuals stay independent and engaged in the activities that matter most to them.

10/15/2026

Why Does Equipment Fit Matter?

In the Conditions in OT lab, first-year Mizzou OTD students are learning that the right equipment is only effective when it's fitted correctly.

🚶 Walker Fit • Hands should rest comfortably on the grips • Elbows should be bent approximately 15–30 degrees • The walker should allow an upright posture without excessive leaning

♿ Wheelchair Fit • Feet should rest comfortably on footrests • Hips should be positioned fully back in the seat • Seat width and depth should support good posture and pressure distribution • Armrests should allow comfortable support without elevating the shoulders

Proper fitting helps improve safety, comfort, mobility, and participation in everyday activities. Behind every adaptive device is a goal: greater independence, safety, and participation in everyday life.

10/14/2026

Adaptive Equipment Spotlight: Dressing for Success

This week we are sharing from the Conditions in OT course as first-year OTD students explore adaptive equipment that can help individuals engage in meaningful daily activities. Getting dressed may seem simple, but for individuals with limited range of motion, weakness, pain, or balance concerns, adaptive equipment can make all the difference.

🪝 Dressing Stick Helps pull clothing on or off, retrieve items, and assist with reaching without excessive bending.

👟 Long-Handled Shoehorn Allows individuals to put on shoes while maintaining hip precautions or avoiding difficult bending and reaching.

🧦 Sock Aid A device that helps people put on socks independently using straps and a flexible cradle.

These tools support independence while reducing strain and increasing safety during daily routines.