Occupational Therapy pinning ceremony celebrated student success

In July 2026, 21 graduating students in Cincinnati State’s Occupational Therapy Assistant (OTA) program were recognized in a pinning ceremony, marking their transition from students to emerging practitioners. 

After graduation, students prepared to take the credentialing exam and then start their first jobs as occupational therapy technicians. OTA Program Chair Tara Brock said several graduates received job offers prior to graduation, during their final fieldwork rotations. 

As a group, the graduates completed more than 18,000 hours of fieldwork experience at more than 100 fieldwork locations in the Cincinnati area.

The 2026 graduates concluded the pinning ceremony by reciting the Occupational Therapy Creed, symbolizing the promise to practice occupational therapy with compassion, client advocacy, and professional growth.

Graduates in the photo are (from left): Emma Akers, Jenia Alexander, Youlanda Allen, Ashley Garcia, Leiah Goedde, Margaret (Maggie) Hall, Madison Hardy, Amelia Haun, Jessica Honican, Emily LaGana, Anna McDorman, Eli Pembroke, Lisa Phelps, Kenzie Purkey, Sita Rai, Hannah Sandlin, Shayla Springs, Sara Tanenbaum, Annslee White, Katherine (Katie) Williams, and Clay Wilson.

(Photo provided by Tara Brock)