Duke OTD Celebrates Third Cohort's Commencement

The Duke Doctor of Occupational Therapy (OTD) program celebrated 42 graduates at its commencement on Saturday, May 2, at Duke Chapel. The event marked the completion of their doctoral journeys and honored Duke’s third cohort of OTD graduates.

Held in the historic Chapel, the ceremony highlighted academic achievement, and the opportunities graduates now embrace as occupational therapy practitioners within a dynamic and evolving health care environment.

A central moment was the conferral of the doctoral shawl, presented to each graduate by Duke OTD faculty. The shawl symbolizes scholarly accomplishment as well as the values, commitments, and responsibilities of occupational therapy practice.

“The doctoral shawl is a garment with worldwide significance across cultures and professions,” said Barb Hooper, PhD, OTR/L, FAOTA, division chief of Duke OTD. “It stands for respect and calling, honoring the knowledge, skills, and values you now embody as practitioners.”

Hooper reminded graduates that the shawl represents more than individual achievement—it reflects a commitment to service rooted in humanity.

“This work calls us to care for others with dignity,” she said. “Beyond treating conditions, it means recognizing the full human experience.”

Throughout the ceremony, speakers reflected on the broader purpose of occupational therapy and the meaningful roles graduates will play in guiding individuals and communities through change.

“Take small steps in practice,” said Emma Place, OTD. “Each step moves you closer to the life you have chosen. Hold firmly to the joy and purpose that brought you here.”

Graduates were encouraged to remain grounded amid uncertainty, recognizing that occupational therapy often lives at the intersection of complexity and care—where progress is measured not only by outcomes but also by presence, listening, and trust.

“Occupational therapy is sacred work,” said Michael Iwama, PhD, MSc, BScOT, professor of Orthopaedic Surgery. “It asks us to stay grounded amid uncertainty, connect with people where they are, and guide them—sometimes gently, sometimes quietly—toward greater participation and new opportunities.”

Speakers emphasized that the profession does not demand perfection but intention and integrity.

“This is not a celebration of flawlessness,” noted Jessica Crosby, OTD. “It is a celebration of courage—the courage to embrace evolving roles, carry responsibility, and continue learning.”

As the third graduating class of Duke OTD, the Class of 2026 was recognized not only for earning doctoral degrees but also for helping shape the identity and legacy of a growing program.

“You carry forward a program that is still defining itself,” said Benjamin Alman, MD, chair of the Duke Department of Orthopaedic Surgery. “How you show up in practice—how you care, lead, and serve—will continue to shape the story of Duke OTD.”

Faculty encouraged graduates to take pride in their preparation while remaining open to growth, creativity, and innovation in a health care landscape that continues to evolve.

As the ceremony concluded, graduates were invited to reflect on the deeper meaning of their work and the impact they will have beyond clinical settings.

“Follow what draws you toward service,” Iwama advised. “And remember—you are not just entering a profession. You are answering a calling.”