This scholarship is awarded annually to one or more occupational therapy or occupational therapy assistant student(s) currently enrolled in an OT or OTA program in Tennessee who demonstrates outstanding commitment to the profession of occupational therapy. The intent of this award is to recognize and support future OT practitioners who exemplify excellence in academic performance, active engagement in volunteer or service initiatives, and meaningful and innovative professional development and leadership activities within their educational program, the profession, and/or community.
By honoring these qualities, the scholarship aims to encourage and empower emerging OT practitioners who embody the core values of occupational therapy and are dedicated to advancing the profession through their contributions both in and beyond the classroom. The scholarship winner(s) will be formally recognized at the TNOTA Annual Conference. Nominations will be accepted through Aug. 31, 2026, at midnight Central Time.
NOTE: As part of the application process one professional reference is required, with the person providing the recommendation doing so by completing a poll. You as the applicant are responsible for providing the poll link to them as instructed below:
Submission Instructions
Step One
Provide the following link to a professional reference who can speak to your qualifications as they relate to this scholarship: https://www.tnota.org/tnotf-student-scholarship-award-professional-reference/
NOTE: Because only one reference is accepted per applicant, if more than one is submitted on your behalf, only the first one received will be counted.
Step Two
Create an original video of no more than 5 minutes in length in response to one of the first two prompt options and the third prompt provided below. Be sure to speak in the video about how one or more specific volunteer activities in which you have engaged in during OT/OTA school have impacted you as a future OT practitioner. Upload the video on the submission form and/or share a link to the video.
Respond in the video to one of these prompts:
Prompt Option #1: We should all aspire to leave a lasting legacy. What legacy do you aspire to leave behind and how do you plan to achieve your goal?
Prompt Option #2: Describe your most meaningful achievements and how they relate to occupational therapy and your future goals.
Additionally, respond in the video to this prompt too:
Prompt Option #3: Elaborate on how this award will be an investment for the OT profession if you receive this award.
Step Three
Complete the questionnaire below based on your experience, skills, and other qualifications as related to this scholarship award.
NOTE: Determination for this award is based on comprehensive information so it is okay if you don’t have something to add for every category.