On September 27, 2023, AOTF sponsored the Consortium of HBCU Interdisciplinary Rehab Programs (CHIRP) Dinner at the White House HBCU Conference. CHIRP is a comprehensive interdisciplinary network of evidence-based research initiatives supported by academic rehab programs to address issues of diversity, equity, and inclusion that impact health and health outcomes among racial, cultural, and ethnic groups. AOTF and the leadership of occupational therapy programs at Howard University, Tuskegee University, Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University, Tennessee State University, Winston-Sale State University, Alabama State University and Delaware State University discussed initiatives to promote diversity and belonging in occupational therapy research and the profession as a whole.

On Sunday, July 9^th, 2023, the Occupational Therapy profession lost a genuinely wonderful person and significant member of our community, Lands Banks. Lands served as the Manager of Administration and Facilities for AOTA for over 25 years. Lands was an integral part of AOTA, a man with a magnetic and uplifting personality who was always there to help friends, colleagues, and family members. His passing leaves a large hole in the hearts of all those who knew him and those impacted by his work.

AOTF, AOTA, and its donors have created the Lands Banks Memorial Scholarship in Occupational Therapy to honor his memory and further his legacy.  

Thanks to the generosity of friends, family, colleagues, and dozens of occupational therapists, the Lands Banks Memorial Scholarship is now endowed! AOTF is highly grateful to all the donors who have helped secure this scholarship forever and keep Lands’ spirit alive by helping future generations of occupational therapy students.  You may continue to give to bolster this scholarship and increase the annual award.

The Lands Banks Memorial Scholarship in Occupational Therapy will provide financial aid to support a student in pursuing their degree. Eligible candidates must be pursuing an entry-level degree, i.e., OTA, MOT, MSOT, or OTD, at an AOTA-accredited US institution, enrolled as a full-time student, and have completed at least one year of coursework.

In addition, candidates for this scholarship must demonstrate their involvement in community service and/or service leadership.

Preference for this scholarship will be given to students from historically under-represented minorities in occupational therapy.

The annual scholarship award will be $2,000.