Fall 2015 Perspectives

COLLEGE OF HEALTH CARE SCIENCES • 19 Pi Theta Epsilon Inducts NSU Tampa Chapter Under the direction of Sheila Longpré, M.O.T., OTR/L, assistant professor, the Entry-Level Doctor of Occupational Therapy Program at the NSU Tampa Campus recently inducted 10 members into its new Pi Theta Epsilon chapter. “Pi Theta Epsilon is a specialized honor society for occupational therapy students enrolled in professional entry-level programs at accredited educational programs across the United States,” said Longpré, who serves as the faculty adviser for the honor society. “The mission of Pi Theta Epsilon is to promote research and scholarship among occupational therapy students,” she said. n O.T.D. Graduating Class Leaves Its Mark: The Legacy Project The class of 2015 is leaving a legacy at the NSU Tampa Campus thanks to the creation of a virtual community called Scholars for the Advancement of Occupational Science (SAOS). The mission of SAOS is to inspire, promote, and contribute to the advancement of occu- pational science within the global community. Additionally, the graduating class launched a scholarly journal, which is essential to achieve the organization’s mission. The publication, called the Journal for the Advancement of Occupational Science , will serve as a plat- form for contributors from around the world, including current students, recent gradu- ates, occupational therapy practitioners, and professionals from a variety of disciplines. n Class of 2017 White Coat Ceremony Marks Professional Commitment The class of 2017 began its transformation into doctoral preparation when the students received their white coats during a ceremony that plays an important role in the lives of future occupational therapists. While traditionally it signals the transition into clinical work, in the O.T.D. program, it marks their entry into professional coursework. According to Mirtha Whaley, Ph.D., OTR/L, assistant professor, accepting the white coat means also accepting the responsibility of entering, as a student, into a community of professionals. It serves as a reminder of professional values, respect for clients and peers, integrity, and caring. n C hanging things for the better is a common theme in occupational therapy.