Welcome to the TNOTA Awards page, where we celebrate the passion, innovation, and dedication driving OT in Tennessee.
Here, you can access the TNOTA Hall of Fame – a tribute to leaders who have impacted our field – and read more about the TNOTA Hall of Fame Awards.
We also highlight two annual awards presented by our affiliate, the Tennessee Occupational Therapy Foundation (TNOTF):
Both of these annual awards/recognitions are designed to invest in the bright future of our profession.
Below you will find information about all 3 of the TNOTA Awards for 2026.
1. Lift as You Climb Award
This award recognizes a member who actively supports, mentors, and elevates others while advancing their own career. This is less about titles and more about how someone moves through the profession – collaboratively over competitively, particularly in a way that supports the mission of TNOTA.
2. Lifetime Impact Award
This award recognizes a seasoned OT practitioner whose sustained contributions have had a lasting impact on the profession, community, and/or TNOTA.
3. Distinguished OTA Practitioner Award
This award honors an occupational therapy assistant (OTA) who demonstrates excellence in practice, leadership, and contribution to the occupational therapy profession, particularly in a way that supports the mission of TNOTA
Read about the TNOTF Awards for 2026 below!
1. The TNOTF Student Scholarship
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.
2. The Excellent Educator Award
Nominations of OT/OTA educators for this award will be accepted from students currently enrolled in OT/OTA programs in Tennessee, with the winner announced during the TNOTA Annual Business Meeting on Sept. 20 at the 2026 TNOTA Conference.
To nominate an educator, visit the nominations page!
Nominations will be accepted through Aug. 31, 2026, at midnight Central Time.