Pi Theta Epsilon Inducts Top OT Students

By Office of the President | Mar 5, 2024

Alumni Auditorium was abuzz with excitement for the recent Pi Theta Epsilon Honor Society induction ceremony, celebrating the achievements of thirteen outstanding Occupational Therapy Class of 2024 students.

The event was more than a recognition of academic success; it was a testament to the inductees’ commitment to the high ethical and professional standards of the occupational therapy profession and brought together students, faculty, and their families.

Keynote speeches by Program Chair Efekona Nuwere, Ed.D., OTR/L, and 2023 OT graduate Jane Sato resonated with the audience. Each spoke  about the profound therapeutic impact of occupational therapy and the importance of upholding the profession’s core values.

One of the most notable moments of the ceremony was the recognition of students Marion Dela Pena and Sonja Joshi, who were selected from a pool of national applicants to participate in the 2024 Institute for Future Scientists in Occupational Therapy. The Institute matches potential student scientists with doctoral and post-doctorate mentors. The selection of two students from Downstate for this honor solidifies our reputation as a leader in occupational therapy education.

A highlight of the ceremony was bestowing the Pi Theta Epsilon yellow honor cord on each inductee. The cords symbolize integrity, scholarly excellence, and the potential of each inductee to make significant contributions to occupational therapy.

The 2024 inductees are:

Alexandra Berman
Yazmine Bernier
Jenna Derleth
Samar Issa
Holly Hudgins
Nadine Johnson
Sonja Joshi
Kerianna Krebushevski
Ellenie Kuszer
Ada Liu
Arubah Mansoor
Nava Neugroschl
Sagda Ramadan