Michigan Occupational Therapy Association

10/24/2026

From our membership:

Michigan Rehabilitation Services (MRS) is expanding its network of skilled rehabilitation providers to support employment and independence for individuals with disabilities across the state. We invite occupational therapy professionals and other rehabilitation specialists to learn more about current opportunities to partner with MRS as a vendor. This session is intended for individuals and organizations that are not yet vendors with MRS. Established MRS vendors should not attend.

Register for the October 26, 2026, 11 a.m. - 12 p.m. virtual information session here.

This virtual session will provide an overview of MRS’s statewide service delivery model and highlight the essential role rehabilitation providers play in helping customers achieve successful vocational outcomes. We will also outline current needs for qualified vendors to deliver services such as:

Ergonomic assessments
Ergonomic and workstation adjustments
Vehicle modification evaluations
Home modification evaluations
Assistive technology assessments
Presenters will review associated standards, required competencies, and documentation expectations, emphasizing how high‑quality evaluations contribute directly to customer success in work and career development. In addition, attendees will receive a clear, step‑by‑step explanation of the vendor approval process, including application procedures, contractual requirements, reimbursement structures and available resources. By strengthening partnerships with rehabilitation professionals across Michigan, MRS aims to increase access to essential services statewide and ensure individuals receive the expertise necessary to reach their vocational goals.

ASL interpretation and CART captioning will be provided. The session will be recorded and shared with vendors.

Open event flyer here.

Thank you.

Business Network Division
Michigan Rehabilitation Services
Office of Employment and Training
Michigan Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity

Register here:
https://us06web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_zMAzoaclTW6bJ_Hl7T3Jug #/tration

10/13/2026

The Leadership SIS recommends Mentoring 101: What Every Leader Needs to Know by John C. Maxwell. For occupational therapy practitioners, mentorship is more than guidance. It is a way to develop leaderships, share professional wisdom, and help shape the next generation of OT leaders.

10/13/2026

Growing leaders. Strengthening the profession. Mentorship is one of the most powerful ways we develop leaders, build confidence, and prepare the next generation to serve and advocate for our profession. The MiOTA Leadership SIS is exploring interest in a mentorship program focused on leadership development and professional growth.

We invite current and emerging leaders to share their interest through our brief survey. Together, we can create opportunities to learn, lead, and grow through mentorship.

10/12/2026

2026 Excellence in Advancement in OT

Award Recipients: Representative Julie Rogers and Bret Marr

This award recognizes contributions so unmistakable in scope and impact; together, Julie and Bret have been legislative champions beyond typical work responsibilities, resulting in greater advocacy, public awareness, and policy changes for the profession of occupational therapy in Michigan.

Representative Rogers and Mr. Marr led the six-year legislative campaign that resulted in the passage of Michigan's Occupational Therapy Interstate Licensure Compact in July 2026. The governor signed only the OT, PT, and Physician Assistant bills into law during her term. While signing the compact bill into law is an amazing accomplishment, the years of dedication and extraordinary advocacy work for the occupational therapy profession by Representative Rogers and Mr. Marr are nothing short of amazing.

*We had the opportunity to present the award to Representative Julie Rogers in the House of Representatives in the Capitol, and Lobbyist Bret Marr at his place of employment with his coworkers present.

10/09/2026

Please join us in congratulating the following members on their election to the Board of Directors for 2027–2028!

President: Cathleen Johnson
Legislative & Advocacy Director: Paul Webb
Treasurer: Cindy Klinger
Membership Director: Sonny Grendel

The total vote count was 76. Per the Bylaws, 10% of the membership must submit votes for the election to be valid. This vote total exceeds 10% of membership and the Board has reviewed and approved the results.

A big thank you to all members who submitted a ballot for the 2026 Board of Directors Election! Your dedication to ensuring your voice is heard strengthens MiOTA and the OT profession within Michigan!

Thank you,

MiOTA Elections Committee

10/09/2026

MiOTA’s Paul Webb presented at two conferences in one weekend! We had a great time learning about AI in OT with you at fall conference.

This last weekend, our very own Regional Director of Therapy, Home Care, Paul Webb had the opportunity to speak with colleagues at both the Michigan Occupational Therapy Association and APTA Michigan, A Chapter of the American Physical Therapy Association conferences!

At MiOTA, he spoke with peers on addressing our biases as clinicians as well as how to approach AI in an ethical manner. At APTA-MI, he spoke with peers on identifying and addressing burnout as practitioners.

He says that he was too busy having fun to stop and take any pictures, but we don't know if we believe him!

10/09/2026

It was great having WMU at the 2026 MiOTA Fall Conference!

We learned a lot from seasoned practitioners, new grads, and students alike.

We’re looking forward to seeing more new and returning Broncos next year!

10/06/2026

To everyone who spent the weekend with us at the 2026 MiOTA Fall Conference: thank you!

We had 275 OTP's and students gather in one room to learn, reconnect, and push our profession forward. From the inspiring keynote sessions and our tribute honoring Fred Sammons and Barbara Rider, to the hands-on tech, fresh ideas, and new connections brought by our sponsors and exhibitors, every conversation pointed back to setting the standard for the occupational therapy practice across Michigan and following the stars.

Events like this remind us how strong our community is when we gather under one roof 💙

Now we want to see the conference through your eyes. What was your favorite moment or takeaway? Drop your photos and memories in the comments below.

09/29/2026

"The Friends of Michigan Political Action Committee will host its annual fundraiser at the MiOTA Fall Conference on October 2 at 4:30.

These funds support legislators who support OT.

Our funds are necessary to keep our voice heard and OT awareness viable!

BASKET DONATIONS NEEDED for this fundraiser. Individuals, groups, organizations, students, etc... anyone can create a basket and drop it off October 1 or October 2nd by NOON.

For more information contact Denise Hoffman: [email protected]"

09/28/2026

The Affiliate State Association of Presidents (all OT state association presidents) issues awards each year. Michigan was the recipient of the 2026 Outstanding Advocacy Award!

This award goes to each of you who supported and participated in the many advocacy and legislative events over the past year.

MiOTA created more opportunities for connections outside Lansing to connect with legislators and advocates, including reimbursement webinars, Advocacy on the Road, and GVSU Summer Series presentation.