Class of 2027 Occupational Therapy Students Inducted into National OT Honor Society
On November 12, 2025, the University of New England (UNE) celebrated a milestone in occupational therapy (OT) education. Ten students from UNE’s Master of Science in Occupational Therapy (M.S.O.T.) Class of 2027 were inducted into Pi Theta Epsilon (PTE), the national honor society that recognizes academic excellence and professional promise among OT students and alumni. The ceremony held in Alumni Hall on UNE’s Portland campus underscored the university’s commitment to fostering research, scholarship, and collaborative practice in the field of occupational therapy throughout the United States.
Explore the full list of inductees and learn how UNE is shaping future OT leaders. Apply for the M.S.O.T. program today and join a community that values curiosity, integrity, and lifelong learning.
Understanding Pi Theta Epsilon
Pi Theta Epsilon is a distinguished honor society dedicated to advancing the science and practice of occupational therapy. The organization’s mission is to encourage research, scholarship, and ethical practice while promoting collaboration among OT professionals nationwide.
Mission and Core Values
- Research Advancement: PTE supports evidence‑based practice and innovation in OT.
- Professional Development: Membership offers access to conferences, journals, and mentorship.
- Service and Advocacy: Members are encouraged to contribute to community health and policy initiatives.
Eligibility for Induction
Students must maintain a GPA of 3.5 or higher, complete a minimum number of core courses, and demonstrate a commitment to OT’s academic and professional standards. PTE also values community service, research participation, and peer mentorship.
UNE’s Alpha Psi Chapter: A Legacy of Excellence
The Alpha Psi Chapter, founded by Professor Emeritus Nancy MacRae in 1994, has grown into a vibrant network of students, faculty, and alumni dedicated to high standards in OT education. This year’s induction marked the 32nd anniversary of the chapter, reflecting UNE’s sustained impact on the field.
Historical Roots at UNE
The chapter’s establishment coincided with UNE’s expansion of its health professions programs, embedding a culture of scholarly diligence and community engagement early in the curriculum.
Ceremony Highlights
- Keynote by Emily Blackwell: A 2024 alum who emphasized curiosity as the engine of lifelong learning.
- Faculty Advocacy: Associate Professor Carol Lambdin‑Pattavina urged members to view membership as a calling to act with integrity and compassion.
- Family and Community Presence: Friends, family, and local supporters gathered to honor the inductees’ achievements.
Benefits of PTE Membership for Students
Beyond recognition, PTE membership unlocks a range of resources that can shape a student’s professional trajectory:
Research Opportunities
Members gain access to research grants, conference travel funding, and a platform for publishing case studies. Students can collaborate across states, fostering interdisciplinary projects that advance OT practice.
Networking and Mentorship
By connecting with alumni and industry leaders, PTE members build relationships that facilitate internships, job placements, and consultancy opportunities. The networking events offer tailored guidance for navigating the OT job market.
How OT Students at UNE Can Get Involved
If you are an OT student at UNE—or considering the program—here’s how you can become part of this honor society:
Eligibility Requirements
- Maintain a GPA of 3.5 or higher.
- Complete core OT coursework with a focus on therapeutic interventions, research methods, and community practice.
- Engage in at least one community‑service or research project outside the classroom.
- Submit a statement of purpose outlining your OT career goals and contributions you wish to make to the field.
Application Process
- Complete the UNE student portal application for PTE membership.
- Submit required transcripts and a GPA verification letter.
- Provide letters of recommendation from faculty members.
- Submit your statement of purpose and proof of community engagement.
- Await review by the Alpha Psi Chapter’s selection committee.
Beyond the Honor: Career Advancement
PTE membership often leads to speaking engagements, research collaborations, and early career placement through affiliate job boards. Members are positioned for roles in rehabilitation centers, schools, and national health organizations.
Ready to take the next step? Schedule a campus visit to discover how UNE’s OT program can launch your professional journey.
Looking Ahead: UNE’s Vision for OT Education
The university continues to expand its interprofessional learning environment, integrating cutting‑edge research and technology into the curriculum. By fostering collaboration across disciplines—medicine, dentistry, nursing—UNE’s OT students are equipped to address complex health challenges on a national scale.
To stay informed about upcoming events, research initiatives, and alumni achievements, explore UNE’s online resources or contact admissions for more information. Join our community of change‑makers in occupational therapy and make a lasting impact on patient care.
Have questions or want to share your own experience in occupational therapy? Write to admissions or share your story in the comments below.
