WMU’s occupational therapy assistant program receives transformational gift from longtime pioneers in field

KALAMAZOO, Mich.—A transformative gift from two influential figures in the practice of occupational therapy is set to shape the future for students at Western Michigan University and the landscape of the program. Drs. Fred Sammons and Barbara Rider, both pioneers in the field, have committed to a landmark legacy donation, which establishes a lasting endowment to support both the program and its students. In recognition of their contributions, the program will now bear the name of the Sammons Rider Occupational Therapy Assistant Degree Program. 

Together, Sammons and Rider have dedicated their careers to the advancement of occupational therapy, and their most recent gift to WMU represents their ongoing commitment. 

This generous endowment is not their first. in 2011, they made the largest philanthropic contribution to an occupational therapy program in the U.S., which led to the creation of the Sammons Center for Innovation and Research in Occupation-based Technology. In celebration of its 10th anniversary in 2024, the center announced two prestigious $10,000 awards to support innovation in the field. Their vision also played a critical role in the launch of the Open Journal of Occupational Therapy, which has since garnered more than 1.25 million downloads and published hundreds of influential research papers.   

Founded in 1922, WMU’s Department of Occupational Therapy recently celebrated its 100th anniversary, while the occupational therapy assistant program itself was established just a few years ago in 2022 to offer students even more career opportunities in this growing field. 

For more information on legacy planning, email Trevor Block, chief development officer of the College of Health and Human Services, or call (269) 387-8445. 

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