Awards and Scholarship Committee

The Awards and Scholarship Committee is responsible for recognizing excellence within the occupational therapy community. This committee develops criteria for awards and scholarships, solicits nominations and applications, reviews submissions, and selects recipients. The committee works to honor outstanding practitioners, educators, students, and advocates who advance the mission of occupational therapy in Arkansas.

Chair: Jennifer Moore 

Email: jennifer.moore@achehealth.edu

Bylaws and Ethics Committee

The Bylaws and Ethics Committee maintains the integrity and currency of the Association’s governing documents. This committee reviews and recommends amendments to the bylaws and policies to ensure compliance with legal requirements and alignment with AOTA standards. The committee also promotes ethical practice, reviews potential ethical concerns, and advises the Board on ethical issues affecting members.

Contact: Holly Hertzberg

Email: holly.hertzberg@achehealth.edu

Conference Planning Committee

The Conference Planning Committee organizes and implements AROTA’s annual conference and other continuing education events. This committee is responsible for program development, speaker recruitment, logistics coordination, sponsorship and exhibitor relations, and event promotion. The committee aims to deliver high-quality professional development experiences that meet the diverse needs of Arkansas occupational therapy practitioners and students.

Chair: Shaina Meyer

Email: shainam@uark.edu

Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Committee

The Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Committee is dedicated to fostering a professional community in which all occupational therapy practitioners, students, and stakeholders feel valued, represented, and empowered. This committee works to advance equitable practices within AROTA by promoting diverse perspectives, enhancing access to leadership opportunities, and supporting inclusive engagement across the state. 

Contact: Holly Hertzberg

Email: holly.hertzberg@achehealth.edu

Finance and Audit Committee

The Finance and Audit Committee oversees the financial health and accountability of the Association. Responsibilities include preparing and monitoring the annual budget, reviewing financial reports, ensuring appropriate internal controls, and coordinating audits or financial reviews. The committee makes recommendations to the Board regarding fiscal policies and practices to support the sustainability of AROTA.

Chair: Ashley Stroud

Email: secretary.arota@gmail.com

Legislative Committee

The Legislative Committee advocates for policies and legislation that support the practice of occupational therapy and protect consumers in Arkansas. This committee monitors state and federal legislative developments, informs members about advocacy priorities, coordinates grassroots efforts, and develops relationships with policymakers. The committee also collaborates with AOTA and other stakeholders to advance the profession’s interests.

Chair: Taylor Riddle

Email: taylor@dtrstrategies.com

Mental Health Committee

The Mental Health Committee promotes best practices, education, and advocacy for occupational therapy’s role in mental health and behavioral health settings. This committee provides resources and professional development opportunities, fosters networking among practitioners, and advances initiatives that highlight occupational therapy’s contributions to mental health across the lifespan.

Chair: Noah Hansen

Email: noah.hansen@achehealth.edu

Outreach Committee

The Outreach Committee engages members, prospective members, and the broader community to promote the value of occupational therapy. Activities include coordinating community service projects, public relations campaigns, student engagement initiatives, and collaborations with other professional organizations. The committee works to increase public awareness of occupational therapy services and enhance the visibility of AROTA.

Contact: Holly Hertzberg

Email: holly.hertzberg@achehealth.edu

Reimbursement Committee

The Reimbursement Committee monitors trends and changes in reimbursement policies affecting occupational therapy practice. This committee educates members about billing, coding, and documentation requirements and advocates for fair reimbursement practices. The committee also develops resources to help practitioners navigate payer systems and maintain compliance with regulatory requirements.

Chair: Pamela Lewis-Kipkulei
Email: plewiski@uthsc.edu

Research Committee

The Research Committee supports and promotes research that advances occupational therapy practice, education, and policy. Responsibilities include facilitating research collaborations, disseminating evidence-based resources, and providing guidance or mentorship to members engaged in research activities. The committee may also coordinate calls for proposals, poster sessions, or recognition of research contributions during conferences.

Chair: Steven Wheeler

Email: wheelers@uark.edu