More than 40 members of the Doctor of Occupational Therapy Class of 2028 marked their entry into the profession last Friday during the program’s pinning ceremony. In front of faculty, staff, family and friends in 1CW, the first-year students received their pins that are a replica of the MGH Institute’s official seal. 

Those gathered heard the keynote address from Matthew Keilty, MS, OT, CBIS, MRMC, director of rehabilitation education and training and academic affiliation manager for Spaulding Rehabilitation Network. Assistant Professor Kevin Berner, OT, OTD, OTR, ATP, then shared the meaning of the pinning. 

“The pin reminds us of the professional duties of the occupational therapist and the imperative to both take care of patients and to care for them,” noted Dr. Berner. “It reflects the social contract we share with other health professionals to provide competent, quality care in a respectful and ethical manner. The pin communicates the ideals of professionalism including altruism, accountability, compassion and caring, duty, excellence, integrity, and social responsibility.”
Assistant Professor Mary O’Donnell, OT, OTD, MS, OTR, and Professor Kathleen Lyons, OT, ScD, OTR, then presented the pins, which was followed by the class taking the Pledge of Professionalism. Assistant Professor and Entry-Level OTD Program Director Emily Eddy closed the ceremony with parting words of advice. 

“Remember that our work goes beyond the body; it touches the spirit. When therapy is tied to what someone loves, motivation grows, resilience deepens, and true healing begins,” said Eddy. “As future clinicians, colleagues, or supporters of occupational therapy, let us remember that a therapy session is never just about grasping a cup, buttoning a shirt, or practicing handwriting. It is about restoring the pieces of someone’s life that matter most—their relationships, their joys, their identities.”