Shawnee State University- OTD Program

02/20/2026

The American Occupational Therapy Foundation (AOTF) is proud to announce that the Dr. A Jean Ayres Doctoral Candidate Scholarship is now fully endowed!

Thanks to the philanthropic generosity of dozens of donors and the dedicated leadership of Clare Giuffrida, PhD, OTR/L, FAOTA, Susan Knox, PhD, OTR/L, FAOTA, Aimee Piller, PhD, OTR/L, BCP, FAOTA, and Joanne Flanagan, ScD, OTR/L, this scholarship will continue to drive OT research forward for years to come.

With over $125,000 raised since 2023 to secure funding, this milestone ensures that emerging OT scientists researching sensory integration and sensory processing will continue to be supported, honoring Dr. Ayres's legacy of leadership in the field.

🔗Learn more about this scholarship: https://www.aotf.org/Grants/Dr-A-Jean-Ayres-Doctoral-Candidate-Scholarship

02/02/2026

Student Spotlight on Andrea Logwood.

Hi, my name is Andrea Logwood. I have worked in the field of occupational therapy for over 20 years in the pediatric setting. I am currently enrolled in the post professional OTD program at SSU. I have always been interested in pursuing a doctorate degree to achieve my academic and professional goals and discover new ways to serve my community. The online asynchronous format at SSU coupled with its diverse curriculum made it the perfect fit allowing me to balance my professional responsibilities with academic pursuits. I have a special interest in working with children with sensory issues and neonatal abstinence syndrome (NAS). I am excited about my capstone project focusing on best practices for NAS, and I believe it will empower me with the skills and knowledge to make a meaningful impact in my community. This program has encouraged me to think out of the box and consider the broader scope of occupational therapy practice and non-traditional pathways.

01/29/2026

12/03/2025

Get ready to launch your career! 🚀 Join us for the OOTA 2026 Student Conclave, a two-night, virtual event designed to kickstart your career with expert insights, practical tips, and opportunities for connection.

📅 Night 1: Jan 14 | 6–8:30 PM
Main stage presentations, live Q&A, and full-group discussion.

📅 Night 2: Jan 15 | 6–8:30 PM
Breakout sessions across practice areas so you can explore what excites you most.

This event is FREE for all OT/OTA students—members and nonmembers.
Don’t miss your chance to learn, network, and launch your future! 🔥

Link in Bio! Register Today!