This milestone class also holds the distinction of being the first OTD graduates from a Florida public institution.

Working with students to develop their professional identities as occupational therapists is something that Dr. Linda Struckmeyer, Clinical Assistant Professor, knows a lot about. Having previously worked as the Academic Fieldwork Coordinator for the Masters in Occupational Therapy program, her interest in supporting student learning and professional growth was a natural fit for her position as Capstone Coordinator for the Doctor of Occupational Therapy (OTD) program.

The OTD program is the first and only entry-level doctorate in occupational therapy in the Florida State University System. The program was approved by the Board of Governors last year and will graduate the first class in 2021.

The University of Florida College of Public Health and Health Professions has received approval from the Florida Board of Governors to offer a Doctor of Occupational Therapy degree beginning in fall 2018. It will be the first such degree program offered by a Florida public institution. The new…