The scholastic excellence of nine members of the Entry-Level Doctor of Occupational Therapy program was honored last Thursday night with their induction into Pi Theta Epsilon during a ceremony in Building 39. Class of 2026 students Lauren Kemmer, and Kaelyn Mills, and Class of 2027 students Kyle Cioffi, Samantha Fitzgerald, Julia Kropiewnicki, Anna Lee, Emily Payne, Caitriona Rocco, Grace Traboulssi were recognized and signed their names to become the newest members of the Epsilon Zeta Chapter of the occupational therapy honor society.
After Professor Kathy Lyons welcomed the students and their friends and families to the ceremony, she introduced the student-chosen speaker, OT Professor Diane Smith, who was followed by three of the chapter’s officers who provided the background and purpose of the society.
“Pi is the first letter in the Greek word for advancement,” said President Margaret Ward. “Theta is the first letter in the Greek word for therapeutic. Epsilon is the first letter in the Greek word for occupation. Therefore, Pi Theta Epsilon stands for Advancement in Occupational Therapy.”
“The purpose of the honor society is to recognize and encourage scholastic excellence in occupational therapy students,” said Treasurer Elizabeth Lawlor. “To contribute to the advancement of the field of occupational therapy through scholarly activities. And to provide a vehicle for professional, entry-level occupational therapy students to exchange information and to collaborate regarding scholarly activities.”
Secretary Erin Macdevette told the inductees, “In accepting the invitation to become a member of this honor society, you have taken upon yourself the obligation to devote your efforts to the advancements of occupational therapy, through scholarship and research, and to the maintenance of the high standards of Pi Theta Epsilon.”
Lyons then closed the ceremony with an anecdote that highlights the importance of scholarship and science in OT.
“Jessica Kensky and her husband, Patrick, were victims of the Boston Marathon bombing, received many months of occupational therapy, and were the keynote speakers at the national AOTA conference in 2016,” shared Lyons. “Jessica said, ‘Occupational therapy is where science, creativity, and compassion collide.’ Tonight, these Pi Theta Epsilon inductees have committed to demonstrating these principles.”