By Ms. Kimarah Reefe, Director (Ag.), Master of Science in Occupational Therapy
On Sunday June 23, 2024, the Master of Science in Occupational Therapy (MSOT) program held its Pinning Ceremony, under the theme “Empowering Journeys: Transforming Lives.” The ceremony, held at the University of Southern Caribbean, celebrated the achievements and hard work of the MSOT graduates, faculty, and clinical instructors. The event commenced with an opening prayer by Dr. Lena Caesar, Dean of Graduate Studies, followed by a warm welcome from USC President Dr. Colwick Wilson and administrative greetings from Provost Dr. Len Archer. Ms. Kimarah Reefe, Acting Director of the MSOT Program, delivered an inspiring address, emphasizing the students’ journey and their future contributions to the field of occupational therapy.
A musical selection by Ms. Renee Lawrence set a celebratory tone, followed by the keynote address from Dr. Kiara Matthews, Coordinator of the Speech and Language Programme at the University of the West Indies. Dr. Matthews encouraged graduates to be “Opportunity Torch” (OT) bearers, symbolizing their role in bringing light and change to their communities. Special recognition was given to the pioneer class of the MSOT program, which graduated five years ago and has since made significant contributions to the field of occupational therapy. Their success served as an inspiration for current and future graduates. Special thank you to each member of the pioneer class who sponsored the CARES awards. Ms. Shakila John, Academic Fieldwork Coordinator, presented the CARES and Student Choice Awards. The CARES awards, reflecting the program’s core values, recognized exceptional student achievements in various categories:
- Compassionate Practitioner Award: Awarded to Ms. Kristen Mollineau for her exemplary performance in Service Learning courses, sponsored by OT Miranda’s.
- Occupational Justice and Advocacy Award: Given to Ms. Aneka Thomas for her work in Professional Foundations of Occupational Therapy and Community-based OT, sponsored by Beginning and Beyond Rehabilitation.
- Research and Evidence-Based Practice Award: Presented to Ms. Kristen Mollineau and Ms. Tamika Thomas for their research on healthcare access for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities, sponsored by Full Bloom Therapy and Wellness and Taylor-Made Therapy Services.
- Experiential Learning Award: Awarded to Ms. Aneka Thomas for her outstanding performance in Fieldwork Level II courses, sponsored by OT Haven.
- Scholarship of Learning and Teaching Award: Presented to Ms. Aneka Thomas for her consistent academic excellence and leadership, sponsored by Eureka Kids.
The Student Choice Awards, voted by peers, highlighted leadership and resilience within the graduating class:
- Outstanding Student Leader Award: Mikkel Wilson, recognized for his leadership qualities.
- Resilience Award: Kristen Mollineau, honored for overcoming significant obstacles.
- Inspiring Student Award: Tamika Thomas, acknowledged for her behind-the-scenes efforts.
- Innovative Student Award: Aneka Thomas, celebrated for her creativity and community support.
- Community Outreach Award: The entire MSOT Class of 2024, recognized for exceptional volunteer efforts.
- USCIAN Spirit Award: Lynthea Reefe, noted for her school spirit and campus involvement.
- MSOT Advocacy Award: Chelsea Walcott, for promoting the MSOT program.
- Servant Leader Award: Aneka Thomas, for her altruistic and supportive nature.
The ceremony also honored clinical instructors who played a pivotal role in the students’ education, with tokens of appreciation presented by students Aneka Thomas and Lynthea Reefe. Special acknowledgments were given to those who couldn’t attend, ensuring all contributors were celebrated. In her closing remarks, Class Representative Kristen Mollineau reflected on the journey and expressed gratitude to the faculty and staff. The event concluded with a prayer by Onesi La Fleur, leaving graduates inspired and ready for the next chapter in their professional lives.
Special thanks to Ms. Shakila John, Dr. Particia Coker-Bolt, Dr. Tracy Hislop, Dr. Diadrey-Ann Sealy, and the entire MSOT faculty and staff for organizing this memorable event. Appreciation also goes to the committees, volunteers, and contributors who made the ceremony possible. This Pinning Ceremony not only recognized the accomplishments of the MSOT graduates but also celebrated the collaborative efforts of the entire USC community, ensuring a bright future for these new occupational therapists. A heartfelt congratulations to the graduates for their remarkable achievements and dedication to transforming lives through occupational therapy.
