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  Evolution of Occupational Therapy Practice: Life History of Elizabeth Skidmore, PhD, OTR/L, FAOTA, FACRM

  Emily Annen and Seira Goddard

  Objective: The purpose of the study is to provide current and future generations of occupational therapists a view of the history and how occupational therapy practice has evolved from its inception to current practice through the life history stories of occupational therapists who have held leadership roles at the national level and beyond. It is anticipated that the life history process will be a powerful way to gather this information.

  Method: A detailed, semi-structured interview was conducted at the University of North Dakota School of Medicine and Health Sciences. The interview took approximately 120 minutes to complete, followed by a transcription and data analysis used to organize the information collected from the interview into 21 codes and further create eight emerging themes.

  Results: Four themes were derived from the data analysis which represent key aspects of Dr. Skidmore’s life and career: her values which have guided her career decisions, her role in overarching systems which have allowed her to advocate for others, her willingness to seek opportunities, and the factors of success and challenge which have motivated her to continue to make an impact on others.

  Conclusion: The findings of this study indicate that Dr. Skidmore has had many experiences that have shaped her values, motivated her, and given her opportunities to become an advocate, mentor, and leader to others as an educator and a therapist.

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  Evolution of Occupational Therapy Practice: Life History of Joan Rogers, PhD, OTR/L, FAOTA

  Michelle Arnhalt and Ivy Steiger

  Objective: This qualitative study was to examine the evolution of occupational therapy practice throughout the life history and career of Joan Rogers. The purpose of the study is to provide current and future generations of occupational therapists a view of the history and how occupational therapy practice has evolved from its inception to current practice through the life history stories of occupational therapists who have held leadership roles at the national level and beyond.

  Method: The Kawa Model guided Semi-structured interview questions. Throughout the interview process, the researchers gained information regarding Joan Roger’s experiences related to gaining her occupational therapy degrees, research, working in clinical practice, and retirement. The verbatim transcription was analyzed and coded.

  Results: The codes that were developed were then grouped into four different categories - academics, professional life, involvement, and retirement. From these categories, twelve themes were created that led to the final assertion.

  Conclusion: There were multiple barriers and supports in Dr. Rogers’ career that contributed to her success in the profession of occupational therapy. Throughout her entire career, Dr. Rogers has consistently contributed to the enhancement of the occupational therapy profession through clinical practice, research, and volunteering.

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  Evaluation of Occupational Therapy Practice: Life History of Thomas Fisher, PhD, OTR, CCM, FAOTA

  Hailey Axtell and Ty Berg

  Purpose Statement

  This life history is one of 30 life history interviews which are part of a larger project,Histories of Individuals Who Have Been Influential in Developing Occupational Therapy (OT) at the National Level and Beyond. The purpose of study is to provide current and future generations of occupational therapists a view of the history and how occupational therapy practice has evolved from its inception to current practice through the life history stories of occupational therapists who have held leadership roles at the national level and beyond. It is anticipated that the life history process will be a powerful way to gather this information.

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  Evolution of Occupational Therapy Practice: Life History of Jaime Munoz, Ph.D., OTR/L, FAOTA

  Kaitlyn Berglund

  The purpose of this study is to provide current and future generations of occupational therapists a view of the history and how occupational therapy practice has evolved from its inception to current practice through the life history stories of occupational therapists who have held leadership roles at the national level and beyond. This particular study reflects the life history of Dr. Jaime Munoz, a leader in occupational therapy education and advocate for marginalized populations. The study design used for this project was qualitative research using a life history approach, which allowed the focus to be on the participant’s involvement in the evolution of occupational therapy practice. The Kawa Model was also used to guide this project. The results revealed a final assertion that Dr. Jaime Munoz demonstrates a strong desire to have a positive impact on the occupational therapy profession through providing quality education opportunities, minimizing barriers to education, and promoting access to service for marginalized populations. He emphasizes the importance of fostering opportunities for nurturing other leaders.

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  Life History of Margo B. Holm, PhD, OTR/L, FAOTA, ABDA

  Emma Chafin and Jessica Lambert

  This life history is one of 30 life history interviews which are part of a larger project, Histories of Individuals Who Have Been Influential in Developing Occupational Therapy (OT) at the National Level and Beyond. The purpose of study is to provide current and future generations of occupational therapists a view of the history and how occupational therapy practice has evolved from its inception to current practice through the life history stories of occupational therapists who have held leadership roles at the national level and beyond. It is anticipated that the life history process will be a powerful way to gather this information. This life history of Dr. Margo Holm is a case study that examined her life as an OT practitioner, educator, and researcher.

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  Evolution of Occupational Therapy Practice: Life History of Kuzhilethu “Shep” Kshepakaran, M. Ed., OTR/S, CAPS, FAOTA

  Roxana Chirinos and Carly Derouin

  The purpose of study is to provide current and future generations of occupational therapists a view of the history and how occupational therapy practice has evolved from its inception to current practice through the life history stories of occupational therapists who have held leadership roles at the national level and beyond. It is anticipated that the life history process will be a powerful way to gather this information. An in-depth interview with the selected participant, Kuzhilethu “Shep” Kshepakaran, as well as his resume and the internet were used to gather information. The categories created symbolized Shep’s life history which included personal experiences, perspectives and practice influence. The themes represented Shep’s personal values and beliefs, perspectives regarding practice and cultural awareness as well as commitment to the overall value of occupational therapy profession. The themes highlight the important aspects that led to Shep’s contributions to the OT profession regarding legislation as well as educational enhancement. By staying true to his personal motivations, Shep was able to use education and life experiences to accomplish various achievements which allowed him to increase his involvement in the field of occupational therapy as it grew and developed overtime.

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  Evolution of Occupational Therapy Practice: Life History of Anne MacRae, PhD, OTR/L, BCMH, FAOTA

  Danielle Cox and Brock Wahlert

  This life history is one of 30 life history interviews which are part of a larger project, Histories of Individuals Who Have Been Influential in Developing Occupational Therapy (OT) at the National Level and Beyond. The purpose of study is to provide current and future generations of occupational therapists a view of the history and how occupational therapy practice has evolved from its inception to current practice through the life history stories of occupational therapists who have held leadership roles at the national level and beyond. It is anticipated that the life history process will be a powerful way to gather this information.

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  Life History of Elizabeth Crepeau, PhD, OTR/L, FAOTA

  Nathina Crabtree and Sara Gregoire

  The purpose of the study is to provide current and future generations of occupational therapists a view of the history and how occupational therapy practice has evolved from its inception to current practice through the life history stories of occupational therapists who have held leadership roles at the national level and beyond. It is anticipated that the life history process will be a powerful way to gather this information. This life history is part of the larger study consisting of 30 occupational therapists. The larger project is Histories of Individuals Who Have Been Influential in Developing Occupational Therapy (OT) at the National Level and Beyond. A qualitative research design using a life history approach was used. The participant, Dr. Elizabeth Crepeau, was interviewed over FaceTime since she lives in New Hampshire.

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  Evolution of Occupational Therapy Practice: Life History of Patricia Scott PhD, MPH, OT, FAOTA

  Bethany Easthouse and Samantha Plutko

  Purpose: The purpose of the study is to provide current and future generations of occupational therapists a view of the history and how occupational therapy practice has evolved from its inception to current practice through the life history stories of occupational therapists who have held leadership roles at the national level and beyond. It is anticipated that the life history process will be a powerful way to gather this information.

  Methods: Data was collected from one semi-structured interview with Dr. Scott. The interview was conducted via teleconference through the program Zoom and lasted approximately two hours. The questions asked during the interview were formatted from an interview schedule. The interview was transcribed verbatim by the student researchers. From the transcription, data was then coded into categories with corresponding themes.

  Students used the Kawa model to gain an understanding of factors that influence an individual's life history (Turpin & Iwama, 2011). The use of this model allowed students to explore the life events that have influenced Dr. Scott’s contribution to the profession of OT.

  Findings: During data analysis, 11 themes emerged within the categories of OT practice journey, educational journey, personal and career accomplishments. Collapsing the codes, categories, and themes, the final assertion emerged. This final assertion is that Dr. Scott has been a main contributor to OT practice through her extensive practice journey, including her role as a professor, her knowledge and experience in the mental health setting, her numerous career achievements, including her work with the Role Checklist, and her involvement in AOTA.

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  Evolution of Occupational Therapy Practice: Life History of Fred Sammons, PhD (Hon), OT, FAOTA

  Dalton Fetsch and Jonah Kratochvil

  This life history is one of 30 life history interviews which are part of a larger project, Histories of Individuals Who Have Been Influential in Developing Occupational Therapy (OT) at the National Level and Beyond. The purpose of this study is to provide current and future generations of occupational therapists a view of the history and how occupational therapy practice has evolved from its inception to current practice through the life history stories of occupational therapists who have held leadership roles at the national level and beyond. It is anticipated that the life history process will be a powerful way to gather this information.

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  Life History of Provost Beth Cada, Ed.D., OTR/L, FAOTA

  Janice Finley and Emily Utech

  The life history of Provost Beth Cada was one of 9 life history interview which are a part of a larger project of Life Histories of Individuals Who Have Been Influential in Developing Occupational Therapy (OT) in North Dakota and Wyoming. The purpose of the project is to obtain information about the history and evolution of OT practice in North Dakota and Wyoming. This study intends to provide current and future generations of occupational therapists a view of the history and how OT practice has evolved. The life history of Beth Cada is a case study that examined her life as a leader, OT practitioner, educator, and state representative. Throughout the study, the Kawa model was used to symbolize a river about the individual and their personal life history(Turpin & Iwama, 2011).

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  Evolution of Occupational Therapy Practice: Life History of Suzanne Peloquin, PhD, OTR, FAOTA

  Alexandra Grosser and Kelsey Knutson

  Objective: This life history of Dr. Suzanne Peloquin is one of 30 life history interviews, which are part of a larger project. The purpose of study is to provide current and future generations of occupational therapists a view of the history and how occupational therapy practice has evolved from its inception to current practice through the life history stories of occupational therapists who have held leadership roles at the national level and beyond.

  Method: A two-hour, semi-structured interview was conducted via Zoom video conferencing technology. The interview was video and audio recorded and later transcribed. The transcription was analyzed and coded for the development of themes.

  Results: The categories and themes that emerged represent the impact that Dr. Peloquin has had throughout her career in occupational therapy. The impact she has had on the profession is because of her work in mental health, viewing leadership through multiple lenses, incorporating teaching throughout her work, and upholding the core values of occupational therapy.

  Conclusion: Dr. Peloquin has shown that leadership can be getting behind your passions and pushing them forward instead of standing in front of the crowd. She has been an influential leader in the field of occupational therapy, both in the classroom and in her published works.

  Her passion for mental health and occupational therapy as an art and a science has led to the development of an ethos model described in her Eleonor Clarke Slagle Lecture.

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  Evolution of Occupational Therapy Practice: Life History of Karen Jacobs EdD, OTR/L, CPE, FAOTA

  Katelyn Jennings and Abby Wendel

  This life history is one of 30 life history interviews which are part of a larger project,Histories of Individuals Who Have Been Influential in Developing Occupational Therapy (OT) at the National Level and Beyond. The purpose of study is to provide current and future generations of occupational therapists a view of the history and how occupational therapy practice has evolved from its inception to current practice through the life history stories of occupational therapists who have held leadership roles at the national level and beyond. It is anticipated that the life history process will be a powerful way to gather this information.

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  Life History of Dr. Neil Harvison PhD, OTR, FNAP, FAOTA

  Kaylee Loken and Bailey Schumacher

  Objective: The purpose of study is to provide current and future generations of occupational therapists a view of the history and how occupational therapy practice has evolved from its inception to current practice through the life history stories of occupational therapists who have held leadership roles at the national level and beyond.

  Method: The participant was selected from a participant list compiled through purposive sampling by the project directors. Informed consent was obtained prior to the interview. The project was reviewed by the UND Institutional Review Board and was exempted due to it being a life history. A semi-structured interview was conducted and guided by an interview schedule prepared by the project directors; the questions on the interview schedule were designed to be used with all the individuals interviewed as part of the larger project. The student researchers modified questions for the participant.

  Results: Three categories emerged from the data analysis. The three categories were Academics, OT Journey, and Challenges to the Profession. From this an assertion was then determined.

  Conclusion: The historical events happening in the OT world during the 1980’s-1990’s led Dr. Harvison to begin working with at risk populations and allowed him to take on leadership opportunities at the national level. Dr. Harvison has the unique perspective of viewing the profession from a bird’s eye view to be able to advocate for occupational therapy in the academic and interprofessional settings to keep the profession moving forward in the United States.

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  Evolution of Occupational Therapy: A Life History of Dr. Michael Iwama, PhD, MSc, BScOT, BScHP

  Sarah Lovelace and Annabelle Tarnowski

  A life history interview with a qualitative approach was conducted with Michael Iwama, PhD, MSc, BScOT, BScHP by two student researchers and an advisor from the University of North Dakota Department of Occupational Therapy. The purpose of this study is to provide occupational therapists with a view of history and how occupational therapy practice has evolved from inception to current practice through the life history of Michael Iwama. The research was guided by the Kawa model to shape the interview schedule, and the view of the individual and their context (Iwama, Thomson, & Macdonald, 2009). The two-hour interview was recorded, transcribed verbatim, coded into 32 codes, and collapsed into 4 categories and corresponding themes. Trustworthiness was established through reflexive journals, member checking, multiple researchers, and multiple methods of data collection. The categories formed included the following: background, culture, model, and passion. From these categories emerged the assertion statement: Dr. Iwama’s diverse background and culture strongly influenced the lens in which he sees the world and profession of OT through. This led to his immeasurable passion for the unique value of OT and creation of the Kawa model.

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  Evolution of Occupational Therapy Practice: Life History of Mary Hager

  Allison Moran and Grace Spanos

  Objective: The purpose of this qualitative study using a life history approach is to provide current and future generations of occupational therapists a view of the history and how occupational therapy practice has evolved from its inception to current practice through the life history stories of occupational therapists who have held leadership roles at the national level and beyond.

  Method: A semi-structured phone interview was conducted between the student researchers and Mary Hager, a retired occupational therapist. The interview was audio-recorded and transcribed verbatim prior to data analysis. Codes, categories, and themes were synthesized from the interview to comprehend a deeper understanding of turning points and accomplishments in Mary’s life.

  Results: A data analysis was conducted by collapsing the provided information into codes, categories, and themes. The categories of collaborating, challenges, opportunities, and leadership emerged, then led to a final assertion.

  Conclusion: Throughout Mary’s career, collaborating, growing from challenges, opportunities, as well as situations where leadership could flourish, had an impact on the type of experiences she had and the competencies she developed while working in educational and political settings.

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  Evolution of Occupational Therapy Practice: Life History of Dr. Charlotte Royeen, PhD, OTR/L, FAOTA, FASAHP, FNAP

  Hope Nelson and Vanessa Johnson

  The purpose of this life-history study was to provide current and future generations of occupational therapists a view of the history and how occupational therapy practice has evolved through the lens of Dr. Charlotte Royeen. This study aimed to understand how Dr. Charlotte Royeen’s experiences and service has influenced the occupational therapy profession. The methodology used was a semi-structured interview conducted by two student researchers with the participant, Dr. Royeen. Data were analyzed through transcription and coding. Three categories emerged from coding: personality, professional development and occupational therapy. The researchers concluded a final assertion that is as follows: As a forward thinker and strong self-advocate, Dr. Royeen is mindful in making decisions and is willing to embrace adversity to advance occupational therapy practice and education.

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  Evolution of Occupational Therapy Practice: Life History of Yvonne Randall, EdD, MHA, OTR/L, FAOTA.

  Alycia Peacock and Brianna Peterman

  Objective: This qualitative life history study was completed through a semi-structured interview with Dr. Yvonne Randall. This paper reflects a piece of a larger study gathering information and insights about occupational therapy throughout history and how it has evolved. The purpose of the study is to provide current and future generations of occupational therapists a view of the history and how occupational therapy practice has evolved from its inception to current practice through the life history stories of occupational therapists who have held leadership roles at the national level and beyond. It is anticipated that the life history process will be a powerful way to gather this information.

  Method: A detailed, semi-structured interview was conducted at the University of North Dakota School of Medicine and Health Sciences. The interview was transcribed verbatim and analyzed for codes, categories, themes, and a final assertion.

  Results: Data analysis examined and coded the information gained from the interview. The codes that emerged from the interview were further grouped into categories and then themes. This information led to a final assertion that reflects the information from the interview.

  Conclusion: Dr. Randall's values and passion in her personal and professional life have guided her commitment to advocating for clients and the profession of occupational therapy.

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  Evolution of Occupational Therapy Practice: Life History of Dr. Donald Walkovich, DHSc, OTR/L, FAOTA

  Kalindi Rachey

  Objective. The purpose of this study is to provide current and future generations of occupational therapists (OTs) a view of the history of occupational therapy (OT) practice and how it has evolved from its inception to the current practice.

  Method. A one hour, semi-structured interview was conducted with Dr. Walkovich and one OT student from the University of North Dakota. The interview was transcribed and the interview data was coded and compared with the history of the OT profession.

  Results. The predominant categories that emerged during data analysis were his involvement in the profession of OT were Occupational Therapy, Education, Evolution of OT, and Personal Experience. The findings indicate that Dr. Walkovich has impacted the profession of OT from an educational aspect from his involvement at the state and national level.

  Conclusion. Dr. Walkovich’s strong internal motivation and passion for OT has allowed him to significantly impact the field of OT and influence the evolution of OT practice through his involvement at the state and national levels.

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  Evolution of Occupational Therapy Practice: Life History of Sandy Hanebrink, OTR/L, CLP, FAOTA

  Amira Ragab

  The purpose of the life history project is to examine Sandy Hanebrink’s occupational therapy practice and how the profession has evolved at the national level. By completing a literature review, gathering information on the participant, and completing a semi-structured video interview, the researcher was able to analyze the data. The findings from the data emerged into three categories: systematic evolution of the OT profession, personal journey, and influences over the years. The categories were then formed into two overall assertions: Over the years, the systematic evolution of occupational therapy, countless influences, and her personal journey to become an occupational therapist [with disabilities] have embraced Sandy’s persistence and passion to advocate for individuals with disabilities within and outside of the profession. Sandy believes the different changes that are on the way will bring both positive and negative impacts to the occupational therapy profession in embracing the value of education and the identity as a whole.

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  Evolution of Occupational Therapy Practice: Life History of Donna Costa

  Macie Romsdal and Taylor Anderson

  Objective: The purpose of study is to provide current and future generations of occupational therapists a view of the history and how occupational therapy practice has evolved from its inception to current practice through the life history stories of occupational therapists who have held leadership roles at the national level and beyond. It is anticipated that the life history process will be a powerful way to gather this information.

  Method: An in depth, semi-structured, 75-minute interview was conducted from the University of North Dakota School of Medicine and Health Sciences through Zoom. The interview was transcribed verbatim and coded. The codes were grouped into categories, then themes arose. A final assertion was then made.

  Results: The predominant categories that represent the major element of Dr. Costa’s success as a leader include her professional journey, personal/professional achievement, and occupational therapy (OT) education. The themes for the categories indicate that Dr. Costa has made a substantial impact in OT practice, has advocated strongly for the profession, and caring and serving her clients is of utmost importance.

  Conclusion: Dr. Costa has been a dedicated leader and advocate for the continually changing profession of occupational therapy. Throughout her work, she has influenced many clients, coworkers, and other fellow therapists through her drive, passion, and love for the profession. She has maintained integrity and ethics by staying true to the core of occupational therapy.

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  The Evolution of Occupational Therapy Practice: Life History of Susan Haiman, MPS, OT/L, FAOTA

  Jacey Savage and Meaghan Wolfgram

  Objective: This life history is one of 30 life history interviews, which are part of a larger project, Histories of Individuals Who Have Been Influential in Developing Occupational Therapy (OT) at the National Level and Beyond. The purpose of this qualitative study is to provide current and future generations of occupational therapists a view of the history of occupational therapy and how the practice has evolved from the beginning to its current practice through the life history stories of accomplished occupational therapists.

  Method: An in-depth, semi-structured, 120-minute interview was conducted with Susan Haiman via telephone from the University of North Dakota School of Medicine and Health Sciences. Questions were created using the Kawa model as a guide to gather the information that added to the understanding of different aspects of the participant's life that shaped them in the practice of OT. The interview was audio-recorded and later transcribed and coded for emergent themes.

  Results: The predominant themes representing the major elements of Susan’s success as a leader was her passion for education, personal experiences, policy, and occupational therapy as a profession. The findings indicate that she has made a large impact on the profession by serving the needs of her clients and being a strong advocate for mental health.

  Conclusion: Susan’s interview provided a profound understanding and insight into her values and motivations that carried her through her OT career and allowed her to partake in her various leadership and educational positions successfully. Through Susan’s curriculum vitae, interview, and other outside research, the researchers were able to develop an understanding of the major challenges and accomplishments that impacted her career. Susan’s passion for the profession and the ability to take the initiative allowed her to make many significant changes in the field of occupational therapy.

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  The Evolution of Occupational Therapy: Life History of Shirley A. Wells, DrPH, OTR, FAOTA

  Hope Schuster and Hailey Johnson

  Objective: The purpose of the life history of Dr. Shirley Wells is to gain an insight about her life experiences and leadership throughout her years of work in the profession of occupational therapy.

  Method: An in-depth, semi-structured, hour and a half interview was conducted via the telecommunication app, Zoom. The interview was later transcribed verbatim and coded for the emergent categories and corresponding themes.

  Results: The predominant categories representing the major elements of her life history were overcoming challenges, providing a seat at the table, and developing practice. The findings indicate that she made a significant impact for the profession through serving the needs of others and being an advocate for the profession.

  Conclusion: As occupational therapy is continually changing, Dr. Shirley Wells has been dedicated to making a change and advocating for the profession. She has a strong passion for the integration of diversity, community-based practice, and the necessity for the Occupational Therapy Doctorate (OTD) to facilitate and propel occupational therapy to the next level.

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  Evolution of Occupational Therapy Practice: Life History of Lela Llorens, Ph.D., OTR/Ret, FAOTA.

  Rylee Skyberg and Rachel Grubb

  Objective: The objective of the overall study was to gain insight into Dr. Lela Llorens’s life experiences and leadership throughout her time of work in the profession of occupational therapy.

  Method: This was a qualitative study done using a life history approach. The participant was selected from a list compiled through purposive sampling by the project directors. Data was gathered through a two-hour, semi-structured interview with Dr. Llorens via Zoom, and through her curriculum vitae. The two-hour interview was audio-recorded and transcribed verbatim. Member checking was not used for the triangulation of the data. The data collapsed into three categories with three to four themes in each.

  Results: Data analysis was conducted, and the information was first coded, then placed into categories, themes, and an assertion. The categories that emerged were: Overcoming Challenges, Personal Factors, and Occupational Therapy. The themes that emerged through data analysis were: a strong belief in a positive mindset to help overcome any challenges, the value of serving others is apparent in all aspects of life, and occupational therapy being more than just a career, but a way of life.

  Conclusion: Dr. Llorens served as a pioneer for the occupational therapy profession. She was able to maintain success and optimism during a time that was discriminatory for her. Her family and desire to serve others was instrumental in her professional and personal life as they gave her actions meaning.

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  Evolution of Occupational Therapy Practice: Life History of Kathlyn L. Reed, Ph.D., OTR, FAOTA, MLIS

  Tristen Smith and Audrya Tarango

  This life history is one of 30 life history interviews which are part of a larger project, Histories of Individuals Who Have Been Influential in Developing Occupational Therapy (OT) at the National Level and Beyond. The purpose of the study is to provide current and future generations of occupational therapists a view of the history and how occupational therapy practice has evolved from its inception to current practice through the life history stories of occupational therapists who have held leadership roles at the national level and beyond. It is anticipated that the life history process will be a powerful way to gather this information.