WMU Shines at MiOTA Fall Conference

KALAMAZOO, Mich.—Western Michigan University was proudly represented at the Michigan Occupational Therapy Association (MiOTA) Fall Conference, with an impressive showing from faculty, students and recent graduates. The event showcased the depth and diversity of WMU’s occupational therapy programs, with presentations spanning capstone projects, faculty-mentored research and baccalaureate work.

Capstone Excellence
Four graduates from the OTD Class of 2025—Amber Foster, Julia Lalain, Emily Vachon and Lucy Webb—presented their capstone projects, demonstrating the culmination of their doctoral training and commitment to advancing the field.

Research in Action
Current OTD students shared their faculty-mentored research in four dynamic group presentations:

• Candace Heinlein and Paige Kuhn (Mentor: Nancy Hock)
• Emma Campbell, Brooke Hineman and Sophia Huber (Mentor: Alissa Baker)
• Emma Nesbitt, Janelle Henderson, Thomas Simon, Emily Mui, Kelsey DeMann and Julie Eddy (Mentor: Cara Masselink)
• Michelle Lorimer, Macyn Barth, Haley Munson, Lauren Layman and Melina VanDever (Mentor: Michelle Suarez)

OTA Student Contributions
Five OTA students presented their baccalaureate projects, showcasing innovative approaches and thoughtful inquiry: Trisha Sweetman, Winter Hughes, Abby Cassatta, Emily Watson and Rachel Mitchell.

Faculty Leadership
WMU faculty also played a key role in the conference, with six presentations including contributions to Special Interest Section groups. Presenters included Sara Clark, Michelle Suarez, Nancy Hock, Susan Frisbie-Yu, Kim Ganzevoort and Holly Grieves.

This strong representation reflects WMU’s continued leadership in occupational therapy education and research. Congratulations to all who participated and helped make this conference a success!