Directors Message Fall 2021
Looking back at the challenges we have faced collectively; I remain confident about the even brighter future ahead.
Written by Lynn Shaw
For the School of Occupational Therapy, autumn marks the start of the academic year: complete with new beginnings, opportunities, and friendships. The School – faculty, staff, and student leaders – have worked hard to create safe face-to-face learning spaces and engaging virtual experiences designed to inform and support our student’s academic journey. The Forrest building has been energized with the welcome of new and returning students, and the convocation of the Master of Science – Occupational Therapy, Class of 2021. Presenting awards to students during this time, is an honour, a privilege, and is at the top of my list of favourite things to do in my role as Director. I hope you will take a moment to celebrate the graduating, returning and incoming students by watching the convocation and awards videos along with the featured profile of one of our many exceptional students, Amelia Fletcher.
Also highlighted in this newsletter are some samplings of helpful resources developed by the students and advisors of the @work program as well a student driven video initiative that shows heartfelt gratitude for our supportive occupational therapy fieldwork education community.
I am thankful for the ingenuity, dedication, and hard work that has allowed us to continue the School’s vision of advancing well-being in everyday life through occupation, leadership, community, and challenging the status quo - even during a global pandemic. I’m excited about the strides made on our reaccreditation self-study that has motivated us to reflect on our strengths and identify processes and approaches that can be enhanced in our efforts to provide the best possible learning experience for our students. We are looking forward to receiving the Canadian Association of Occupational Therapy accreditation review team during their on-site visit in February, 2022. For your interest, we’ve provided a brief overview of our revised Conceptual Framework as a glimpse of one aspect of our robust self-study report.
Another cause for excitement, an event we’d love all of you to attend in-person or virtually, is the 18th Kelly Bang Memorial Lectureship. Distinguished guest lecturer, Kaarina Valavaara will be reflecting on some of the lessons she’s learned as an Indigenous occupational therapist. Also in the works before year end, is our Occupational Science Mini-Series. Faculty presenters will be sharing insights into their latest occupational science research passions. Until then, you may be interested in the new research of Assistant Professor Dr. Parisa Ghanouni as she looks at improving the transition to adulthood for people with development disabilities.
Looking back at the challenges we have faced collectively; I remain confident about the even brighter future ahead. This optimism comes from the knowing that as a School we are supported by our community. Whether it be the generous donors who provided financial contributions to our students through scholarships, bursaries or gifts; our fieldwork educators who provided thoughtful mentorship to our students; our stakeholders and friends who offer their insights and expertise; our tireless Dal leadership, faculty and staff; or our resilient students – we “work”, because we work together.
As we head into the season of giving and gratefulness, I wish you all good health and meaningful moments.