Diverse OT at Sargent College

Diverse-OT (DOT) is an organization for Entry Level Doctor of Occupational Therapy students dedicated to uplifting minority voices in occupational therapy. During the 2023-24 academic year, DOT has hosted a number of events, beginning with a Mingle ‘n’ Munch gathering at Magazine Beach, where students, faculty, and staff, participated in field day games while getting to know one another.  

In the Fall semester, DOT also teamed up with the Sargent College Occupational Therapy Association (SCOTA) to participate in the Best Buddies Friendship Walk Fundraiser, which is the leading event in the country supporting inclusion for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Together with SCOTA, DOT reached their fundraising goal of $200.

DOT welcomed Assistant Professor at Downstate Health Sciences University, Vikram Pagpatan, EdD, OTR/L, BCP, CLA, ATP, FAOTA to their Fall Speaker Series. Dr. Pagpatan led a wonderful discussion on developing a sense of community and belonging—and finding opportunities for leadership—through professional memberships for emerging occupational therapy practitioners.  

In the Spring semester, DOT plans to welcome two additional speakers who will share knowledge about overdose response and naloxone training, as well as about the role of occupational therapy in sex and intimacy.  

Throughout the 2023-24 academic year, DOT has hosted regular Common Grounds events, where members have an opportunity to connect and discuss themes of importance to the group. This year, Common Grounds themes have centered around identifying de-stressing activities and discussing Black History month. At the events where DOT provides food, they always use catering services of minority-owned business located in the Boston area, like Rhythm n’ Wraps, a Black-owned restaurant located in the heart of Allston.  

DOT looks forward to the events that remain on the calendar for Spring 2024, and to planning events for Boston University’s occupational therapy community in the 2024-25 academic year.