Excellence, Innovation, and Impact Award Recipients Announced for 2026
Congratulations to this year's winners! We are inspired by your exceptional work.
We are proud to announce the recipients of the 2026 NBCOT Awards! These dedicated OTR and COTA professionals exemplify excellence in occupational therapy, demonstrating innovative, impactful, and exceptional contributions that advance client care, elevate professional practice, and inspire others.
“This year’s award recipients represent the very best of occupational therapy—innovators, changemakers, and everyday leaders who are making a lasting impact. I’m especially proud to introduce our new Excellence Award, which honors those who have dedicated their careers to uplifting others and advancing OT practice. Their work is a testament to the power of OT to transform lives and strengthen communities.”
Angela Macauley, PMP
President/CEO, NBCOT
Award recipients will:
- Receive a physical award to display their achievement
- Be featured in a press release and in a spotlight on NBCOT's website and social media
- Have their next certification renewal fee waived
Inspired? We encourage you to consider nominating yourself or a deserving OTR or COTA professional for next year’s awards. The next nomination period will open in early 2027.
NBCOT Excellence Award
The Excellence Award honors mid- to late-career OTR and COTA certificants who have made sustained and outstanding contributions to occupational therapy practice through leadership, mentorship, scholarship, advocacy, entrepreneurship, or other efforts to support groups, communities, and populations.
Recipient of the 2026 OTR Excellence Award
Missouri
Spotlight to come
NBCOT Innovation Award
The Innovation Award recognizes OTR and COTA certificants who demonstrate the delivery of an effective, innovative, and evidence-based program or intervention that enhances the quality of life for a person or persons.
Recipient of the 2026 OTR Innovation Award
Texas
Spotlight to come
Recipient of the 2026 COTA Innovation Award
Tennessee
Spotlight to come
NBCOT Impact Award
The Impact Award recognizes OTR and COTA practitioners who have made exceptional, client-centered contributions, demonstrating dedication, hard work, and outstanding occupational therapy skills to improve their clients’ life satisfaction and engagement in meaningful occupations.
Recipients of the 2026 OTR Impact Award
Maryland
Spotlight to come
California
Spotlight to come
California
Spotlight to come
Recipient of the 2026 COTA Impact Award
Nevada
Spotlight to come
Learn More
For more information about the Excellence, Innovation, and Impact Awards, please visit www.nbcot.org/awards.