Hands That Heal: The Power of Occupational Therapy

By Office of the President | Mar 11, 2025

Congratulations to the 17 outstanding master’s students from the Class of 2025, recently inducted to Pi Theta Epsilon (PTE), the national honor society for occupational therapy. This well-earned recognition of their academic excellence, leadership, and deep commitment to making a difference through OT brings them a sense of accomplishment.

The ceremony was a moment of pride, bringing together students, faculty, and families to celebrate the hard work and passion that define this field. But more than just a celebration, it was a powerful reminder of why occupational therapy is one of the most impactful careers.

With nearly 12 percent job growth projected over the next decade, occupational therapy remains one of the fastest-growing healthcare professions. People from all walks of life—whether stroke survivors regaining mobility or children developing motor skills—depend on occupational therapists to help them live fuller, more independent lives. As the population ages and the need for rehabilitation expands, future OT practitioners are entering a field where their expertise, creativity, and compassion will always be essential and in high demand.

The core of occupational therapy lies in enhancing mobility and daily functioning. Whether it’s equipping older adults with adaptive tools to support their independence or guiding patients through recovery after medical procedures, the impact of OT is transformative.

At Downstate, we take great pride in preparing the next generation of occupational therapists—compassionate and innovative professionals who will continue to shape the future of healthcare. To our newly inducted PTE members: we celebrate your achievements, honor your dedication, and eagerly anticipate the remarkable contributions you will make in the years ahead.

Congratulations to the newest PTE inductees: Francis Arlotta, Faith Cantillo, Taylor Choi, Katja Collier, Julia Lavelle, Jenny Li, Justine Luong, Jasmine Namyotov, Malai O’Keeffe, Kristin O’Regan, Victoria Perez, Alisa Salbert, Jamie Siegart, May Takahashi, Anna Todd, Elizabeth Tung, and Cassandra Yu.

Thank you to the School of Health Professions, under the leadership of Allen N. Lewis, Jr., Ph.D., CRC, Dean, and Efekona Nuwere, Ed.D, MPH, OTR/L, Chair and Assistant Professor, as well as the SOHP faculty and staff for championing our students’ efforts.

Tags: Awards, Occupational Therapy