Honoring the Life and Legacy of Dr. Margaret Kaplan
By Deans Office | Jun 15, 2026
The SUNY Downstate School of Health Professions (SOHP) and Occupational Therapy community
mourn the loss of Margaret Kaplan, PhD, OTR/L—an esteemed educator, visionary scholar, dedicated leader, mentor, alumna, and cherished
member of the Downstate family.
For generations of students, faculty, alumni, and practitioners, Dr. Kaplan was synonymous with excellence in occupational therapy education. Her passing leaves an immeasurable void in our community, yet her influence will continue through the students she taught, the colleagues she mentored, the programs she strengthened, and the profession she helped advance.
During the Occupational Therapy Program’s 60th Anniversary Celebration, Brigitte Desport, DPS, OTR/L, BCP, ATP, Interim Dean of the School of Health Professions, reflected on Dr. Kaplan’s extraordinary connection to SUNY Downstate:
“Dr. Kaplan’s connection to this institution was deeply personal. As a proud member of the Class of 1975, she carried her love for this program throughout her life. Over decades of dedicated service—as an Associate Professor, Admissions Coordinator, and Interim Dean—she poured her heart into SUNY Downstate. She led with grace, with fierceness, and with an unwavering commitment to academic excellence.”
—Dr. Brigitte Desport, Interim Dean, School of Health Professions
A Lifetime Dedicated to Downstate
A proud alumna of the Occupational Therapy Class of 1975, Dr. Kaplan devoted her career to advancing occupational therapy education, mentoring generations of students, strengthening academic programs, and serving the School of Health Professions with distinction.
Known for her high standards, intellectual rigor, and unwavering commitment to student success, she challenged her students to achieve their fullest potential. She believed deeply in the transformative power of education and inspired future occupational therapists through her mentorship, guidance, and example.
Her impact can be seen not only in the accomplishments of her former students, but also in the individuals, families, and communities who have benefited from their care.
Advancing the Occupational Therapy Profession
Beyond the walls of Downstate, Dr. Kaplan was recognized as a pioneer in occupational therapy scholarship. She was a co-developer of the Frame of Reference for Motor Skill Acquisition, a significant contribution to pediatric occupational therapy practice. Her scholarship helped advance approaches to supporting children in developing functional skills, independence, and participation in everyday life.
Her dedication to improving outcomes for children and families was further recognized through the prestigious Emily Fenichel Award, honoring her contributions to early childhood development and pediatric practice.
Throughout her career, Dr. Kaplan combined academic excellence with compassionate clinical insight, ensuring that her scholarship and teaching remained grounded in improving the lives of others.
A Leader, Mentor, and Colleague
To her colleagues, Dr. Kaplan was a trusted advisor, advocate, mentor, and champion for faculty governance. She led with integrity, wisdom, and conviction, consistently placing students, faculty, and the profession at the center of her work.
Her leadership reflected both strength and kindness, earning the respect and admiration of those fortunate enough to learn from and work alongside her.
Reflections from Faculty, Staff, and Alumni
The depth of Dr. Kaplan’s impact is perhaps best understood through the voices of the colleagues, faculty, staff, and alumni whose lives she touched across SUNY Downstate and the School of Health Professions.
Vikram Pagpatan, EdD, OTR/L, BCP, CLA, ATP, FAOTA — Interim Associate Dean for Strategic Initiatives and Associate Professor, Occupational Therapy reflected:
“Margaret was a pivotal part of the success of SOHP.”
Nancy Kline, PhD, OTR, BCG — Assistant Professor (Part-Time), Occupational Therapy fondly recalled one of Dr. Kaplan’s unique traditions:
“One of my favorite memories was the spirit she brought to lunchtime. Margaret started a movie lunchtime tradition of watching films, including Woodstock, to teach students about the 1960s. Margaret would be all decked out in her tie-dye shirts. She will be greatly missed.”
Building on that memory, Rena Orman, PhD — Research Associate Professor, Physiology and Pharmacology shared:
“Nancy, you brought back wonderful memories! You reminded me of endless conversations with Margaret about movies and teaching and different generations. It would be lovely to revive that wonderful tradition of watching movies and having lunch in Margaret’s memory.”
Douglas Dunstatter, PhD, RDMS, RDCS, RVT — Clinical Assistant Professor, Diagnostic Medical Sonography reflected on the many ways Dr. Kaplan shaped his professional journey:
“Dr. Kaplan was Dean when I first joined the program in 2015, and she was also one of my professors when I was a student in the DMS program more than 20 years ago. Throughout both roles, she was always kind and compassionate toward me and genuinely committed to her students, faculty, staff, and patients. My thoughts and prayers are with her family and loved ones. May she rest in peace.”
Mohammad Faysel, PhD — Chair and Associate Professor, Health Informatics remembered Dr. Kaplan as:
“She was a dear mentor and a truly supportive colleague.”
Jasmin Thomas, OTD, OTR/L, BCP — Associate Professor, Occupational Therapy shared:
“Margaret dedicated her life’s work to the Occupational Therapy Program and the School of Health Professions. Margaret made lasting contributions to our community and touched the lives of countless students and faculty. She will be deeply missed.”
Andrea Trimmingham, MA, PA-C — Chair and Program Director and Assistant Professor, Physician Assistant Program reflected on Dr. Kaplan’s compassion and support:
“She was always wonderful to me and incredibly supportive of the PA Program. I will always remember the genuine compassion she showed me during one of the most difficult times in my life. When I experienced my loss, she extended such heartfelt condolences and kindness, and that meant more to me than I can express. She was already deeply missed following her retirement, and she will be missed even more now. Please know that my thoughts and prayers are with her family. Sleep in peace, Dr. Kaplan.”
Iryna Struk, MS, RDMS, RDCS, RVT — Interim Department Chair and Clinical Associate Professor, Diagnostic Medical Sonography shared:
“Such sad news. Margaret was a wonderful supporter of both faculty and academic programs, and it was truly a pleasure to work with her. I will remember her kindness, dedication, and support fondly.”
Candida St. Hillaire, MS, PA-C — Physician Assistant Program added:
“This is truly sad news. Dr. Kaplan made such a meaningful impact on so many, and she will be deeply missed. Keeping her family and loved ones in my thoughts and prayers during this difficult time.”
A Legacy That Lives On
Together, these reflections paint a portrait of a remarkable educator and leader whose influence extended far beyond the classroom and administrative offices.
As we reflect on Dr. Kaplan’s life and career, we celebrate not only her professional accomplishments, but also the generosity, mentorship, compassion, and dedication that defined her service to others.
Her legacy lives on through the students she taught, the faculty and colleagues she supported, the programs she strengthened, the scholarship she advanced, and the occupational therapy profession she helped shape.
As the School of Health Professions celebrates 60 years of healthcare education, Dr. Kaplan’s story holds particular significance. From entering Downstate as an Occupational Therapy student in the Class of 1975 to becoming an educator and institutional leader, her life represents the enduring impact that one member of the SOHP community can have across generations.
The School of Health Professions extends its deepest condolences to Dr. Kaplan’s family, friends, former students, colleagues, and all whose lives were touched by her extraordinary life and service.
Remembering Dr. Margaret Kaplan
To learn more about Dr. Kaplan’s work and hear her reflections, we invite members of the Downstate community to view this video featuring Dr. Margaret Kaplan:
Watch: Dr. Margaret Kaplan — Occupational Therapy
Dr. Margaret Kaplan’s impact on SUNY Downstate, the School of Health Professions, and the occupational therapy profession will not be forgotten.