Occupational Therapy Student Activities Support Cultural Diversity and Community Engagement

By Office of the President | May 1, 2023

Students in Downstate’s Occupational Therapy program organized several recent activities that reflect the program’s commitment to community engagement and cultural diversity. 

As part of the University Council’s Annual Multicultural Fair, the Coalition of Occupational Therapy Advocates for Diversity (COTAD) Chapter at Downstate hosted a cultural fashion show that explored and showcased traditional dress styles from around the world. Students, faculty, and staff learned about and embraced each other’s cultural identities.

Downstate’s student-run COTAD chapter was the first to be established in New York State and is dedicated to promoting justice, diversity, equity, and inclusion within the occupational therapy profession.

Congratulations to the COTAD board members for this important work and service. The 2022-2023 leadership includes Sonja Joshi, president; Michelle Abdurakhmanova, vice president; Christina Igbokidi, secretary; Elaine Kuang, treasurer; and Dorian Valentine, creative director.

The Student Occupational Therapy Association (SOTA) sold Krispy Kreme doughnuts and participated in Walk MS-New York City on April 23 to help raise money for multiple sclerosis research, surpassing its fundraising goal of $300.

SOTA executive board members for 2022-2023 are Abigail Culliton, president; Joanna Palm, vice president; Victoria Kite, secretary; Esty Friedman, treasurer; Sarah Davis, creative director; and Leah Rischall, inter-cohort coordinator.   

Thank you to Vikram Pagpatan, Ed.D., OTRL, Occupational Therapy assistant professor and admissions coordinator, who serves as faculty advisor for COTAD and SOTA.