Overview
Students in the MOT program at UTHSC established the first COTAD Chapter in the state
of Tennessee in 2019 as part of the program’s commitment to supporting efforts in
justice, equity, diversity, and inclusion in the field of occupational therapy. The
goal of the UTHSC COTAD Chapter is to increase cultural humility through creating
opportunities for growth and sharing resources to foster open conversation and reflection
in regards to different lived experiences and perspectives in a safe learning environment.
The group participates in monthly activities to learn about different cultures, the
impact of culture on occupation, social justice issues, and other related topics.
Through affiliation with the national non-profit organization, the Coalition of Occupational
Therapy Advocates for Diversity (COTAD), the UTHSC COTAD Chapter’s members are connected
with leaders in COTAD and other OT students around the country with whom they collaborate
to increase diversity within the occupational therapy workplace and help to more fully
prepare clinicians to better serve diverse client populations.
