Western Michigan University - Department of Occupational Therapy

Since 1922, the occupational therapy program at WMU has been a leader and innovator in the field, and our graduates have made significant contributions throughout the nation and the world. In 2022 we celebrated our 100th anniversary, commemorating a tradition of excellence and committing to a bold future. Historically, occupational therapists have been in high demand, and that demand is rising. New professionals are needed, particularly those skilled in working with the growing population of older adults. In that area and many others, WMU occupational therapy graduates have distinct advantages: **Diversity and Inclusion Statement** The Department of Occupational Therapy at Western Michigan University commits to a diverse and inclusive faculty and student body recognizing and respecting each person’s unique story. Although our goal is to incorporate and embrace diverse viewpoints, we acknowledge that unconscious bias, prejudices, power dynamics and privilege exist. As a result, we strive to increase awareness and remove barriers which prevent inclusion and equity for all individuals. The faculty are committed to instruction, research, and service that considers the breadth of human diversity which includes, but is not limited to, people of all ages, gender identities, sexual orientations, races and ethnicities, and a continuum of abilities. History **Marion R. Spear** founded the occupational therapy program at Western Michigan University in 1922 and served as its first faculty member. At that time, two students were enrolled in the program, which required three months of coursework and was located at the Kalamazoo State Hospital. Under Spear's leadership, the program eventually grew into an academic unit, providing a 27-month program requiring 32 hours of college credit before admission. In 1939, the program received full accreditation from the Council on Medical Education of the American Medical Association in collaboration with the **American Occupational Therapy Association**. It was one of the first five programs to gain such recognition. The program moved to the campus of Western Michigan College in 1944, and students earned a Bachelor of Science in Occupational Therapy. Thirty students were enrolled at that time. By 1949, the enrollment had increased to 150 full-time students. In 1953, the department developed one of the first occupational therapy graduate programs in the country.