Ten new graduates of Wilmington College’s Master of Science in Occupational Therapy program reached a significant milestone on Saturday (Dec. 6) as they embark upon careers dedicated to health and healing. The annual MSOT Pinning Ceremony signified the completion of their formal education and noted their eligibility to sit for the profession’s certification examination.
“We’re very proud of you and the work that you’ve done, You are ready and equipped to make a difference in the world,” said Erin Bales, MSOT program director. “Some say the profession of occupational therapy is a calling rather than a career. We help people discover or rediscover their independence, or even the joy in their lives. Never underestimate the impact of your work.”
The graduating cohort includes Olivia Bitonte, Lindsey Carter, Alyssa Fischer, Hannah Harig, Haley Hixson, Bailey Hypes, Makenzie Meyer, Ali Mexher, Drew Pitzer and Kegan Skinner.
Keynote speaker Heather Buyer is a parent, advocate and member of the College’s MSOT staff. She spoke of the challenges that Joel, her son with special needs, has faced and how those professionals who have cared for him have changed lives for the better. “Their impact reached further than they will ever know,” she told the graduates, noting that such care helps build skills, gain confidence and “add light to families that have experienced darkness.”
Graduation candidate Kegan Skinner, president of the College’s Student Occupational Therapy Association, knew that two years ago, he embarked upon what promised to be a unique educational experience in studying occupational therapy geared toward rural communities. But he had no idea it would involve working with horses, climbing trees, holding goats, fishing and playing dodgeball — and happily it did! But, in the final analysis, “You people are what made this program so special for me.”
Logan Fields, the program’s academic fieldwork coordinator, added that the occupational therapy profession asks its practitioners to “see possibilities,” and realize those through empathy, integrity and skillful care.
PICTURED: The 10-member cohort recites the Occupational Therapy Pledge as part of the Pinning Ceremony.