The National Black Occupational Therapy Caucus: A conversation  with Dr. Nardia Aldridge

Hosted by the TNOTA Diversity & Inclusion Committee

Tuesday, May 20 at 6:00 pm Central Time

Register Here!

About This Course: Dr. Nardia Alridge is joining TNOTA’s Diversity and Inclusion Committee for a discussion surrounding the National Black Occupational Therapy Caucus (NBOTC). This course will explore the purpose and history of the NBOTC, share resources for occupational therapy practitioners, and provide time for a Question & Answer session with participants. This course is intended to be used as resource by both students and current occupational therapy practitioners. Come see how you can get involved!

Course Objectives: Through participation in this one-hour CE event, attendees will complete the following:

1. Explain the purpose of the National Black Occupational Therapy Caucus

2. Access resources available to students and practitioners related to diversity and professional representation

3. Identify opportunities to get involved with advocacy efforts related to diversity and inclusion

Presenter: Nardia Aldridge, Ph.D., OTR/L, FAOTA, FNAP, DTM, is an experienced occupational therapist with over 23 years of expertise in long-term and subacute care. She is a dedicated healthcare leader with interests in diversity in occupational therapy, gerontology, health promotion, interprofessional collaboration, and community-based interventions to enhance the quality of life for mature adults.

Dr. Aldridge holds a Ph.D. in Health Services (Healthcare Administration), an M.S. in Gerontology, and a B.S. in Occupational Therapy. She was awarded the prestigious Roster of Fellows Award (FAOTA) at the AOTA Inspire 2025 Conference April 2025 and recognized as a Fellow of the National Academies of Practice (FNAP) March 2025. She is nationally recognized for her work in diversity, equity, inclusion, justice, access, and belonging (DEIJAB), contributing to the profession through research, conference presentations, and service as a reviewer for AOTA conference submissions, academic journals, and books.

Dr. Aldridge has presented at numerous national and international conferences, including WFOT, AOTA Inspire, NYSOTA, and FOTA. She currently serves on the steering committee for the University of the West Indies' first Master of Occupational Therapy (MOT) program, officially approved on March 21, 2025.

In leadership and service, Dr. Aldridge has been actively involved with the National Black Occupational Therapy Caucus (NBOTC) for over 20 years and currently serves as the Eastern Region Coordinator. She is also the President of the South Florida Black OT Caucus and previously served as President of the New York State Black OT Caucus for more than 14 years. Additionally, she is the founder and President of Shark Tank Toastmasters, where she fosters leadership development and has earned Toastmasters' highest distinction as a Distinguished Toastmaster (DTM).

Dr. Aldridge is committed to advocacy and mentorship, participating in numerous educational initiatives and advocacy efforts across the occupational therapy profession. She has mentored hundreds of students and professionals, supporting their growth and helping many advance into leadership roles in healthcare.

CEU Opportunity: 1 CEU, FREE for TNOTA members; $20 for nonmembers