OUR STORY

In 2016, Dr. Toni Solaru and Dr. Caitlin Robinson, two graduate students at the University of Wisconsin-Madison, faced significant challenges as underrepresented students in occupational therapy. Rather than accept the status quo, they envisioned a future where every student could thrive in OT, regardless of background.

This vision led to the creation of Diverse-OT National, a grassroots initiative dedicated to bridging gaps in support and opportunity for underrepresented students. What started as a small student club has grown into a dynamic non-profit with a presence at five U.S. universities and a growing international reach.

Today, Diverse-OT National unites communities, builds support networks, and champions health equity. Our impact is driven by passionate supporters like you.

Help us continue this vital work. Your support will empower more students, foster diversity in OT, and create lasting change.

OUR IMPACT

🌟 150+ Members: Empowering graduate and undergraduate students since 2016
🎓 1,500+ Students: Engaging high school and undergrad students through our outreach programs.
🎤 1,500+ Attendees: Connecting professionals and students at Diverse-OT events.
📚 100+ Resources: Providing vital educational tools for our members.
🌍 6,000+ Followers: Building a strong online community.
💵 $8,000 Raised: Securing funds from grants and donors.
🎓 $10,000 Endowment: Establishing the OT Diversity Scholarship at CSU.
💸 $2,000 Disbursed: Supporting students' material needs through Diverse-OT chapters.

KEY PROGRAMS

🎓Application Night🎓: Diverse-OT hosts an event for underrepresented students to learn about OT programs and get help with applications.
🌍 Community Outreach🌍: Diverse-OT educates and supports students nationwide on the OT profession through various assistance and workshops.
🗓️ National Support🗓️: Diverse-OT provides meetings, office hours, grants, and mentorship, plus emotional support for students.

DOT PROVIDES...

📚 Recruitment and Retention📚: Diverse-OT engages in outreach events to raise OT profession awareness, support applications, and offer mentorship at the undergraduate and high school levels.
🌟Targeted Learning Opportunities🌟: Diverse-OT assists OT/OTA programs enhance diversity through meetings, office hours, outreach events, and support groups.
🛠️Educational Resources & Consultation🛠️: Diverse-OT offers culturally sensitive resources and consultation services to academic programs through their website and beyond.

Interrupting Internalized & Institutional Anti-Blackness