Note from Carole Ivey, Ph.D., OTR/L, FAOTA Chair, Department of Occupational Therapy, Virginia Commonwealth University

We are thrilled to announce that our department has moved up in the U.S. News & World Report rankings, climbing to #14! This achievement reflects our unwavering commitment to excellence in education, research, and community engagement. We are proud to celebrate this milestone with our dedicated faculty, hardworking students, and supportive alumni.

Our faculty continues to excel in their fields, contributing groundbreaking research and earning prestigious awards. Dr. Brooke Dexheimer recently received a VCU Quest Grant while Dr. Audrey Kane was honored with being inducted as a Fellow to the American Occupational Therapy Association. These accolades are a testament to the high caliber of our faculty and their commitment to advancing our field.

This past May, we had the pleasure of celebrating the graduation of an exceptional group of students. We are confident they will continue to make significant contributions to the field of occupational therapy. Congratulations to the Class of 2024! Your hard work and perseverance have paid off, and we are excited to see the positive impact you will have on the clients you serve.

Our alumni network continues to play a vital role in our department's success. This year, we had opportunities to engage with alumni at conferences,  through guest lectures and admissions involvement, and generous donations. We are grateful for the continued support of our alumni, which helps us provide exceptional opportunities for our students and further our mission. Special congratulations to Dr. Deanna Dambrose for receiving the Jayne T. Shepherd “Making a Difference” Alumni Award.

As we celebrate these achievements, we look forward to continuing our journey of excellence. Thank you to our faculty, students, alumni, and supporters for your unwavering commitment and dedication. Together, we are shaping the future of occupational therapy and making a lasting impact on our community.