College of Saint Mary Celebrates OTD Inauguration Ceremony

OMAHA, Neb. – College of Saint Mary celebrated 13 occupational therapy doctorate (OTD) students during an Inauguration Ceremony on Saturday, Sept. 21, in Gross Auditorium. The event recognized the students who will begin the clinical care portion of the curriculum.

“Today marks the next step in your path by taking an oath that turns those desires to help into a promise,” said Tara Ruppert, OTD, OTR/LT, CHT, director of CSM’s occupational therapy program and associate professor. “You have promised to embrace our client-first philosophy, our drive to advocate, our dedication to compassionate and effective care, and our commitment to following evidence-based practice to achieve positive outcomes.”

Ellie Cusic, OTD, OTR/L, assistant professor of occupational therapy, presided over the ceremony. Morgan Faust D’26 and Grace Souerdyke D’26 provided the opening reflection. Mary Smith, EdD, associate professor of occupational therapy, was the guest speaker, while Haylie Wong D’26 gave the student speech.

“One of the best parts about occupational therapy is that we help people find meaning in their lives based on how, where, and with whom they spend their time,” Wong said. “These occupations form our identities and the shape of our lives. No matter what twists or turns our stories take, we can create our own happy endings by choosing and changing our attitudes and behaviors. As future occupational therapists, it is our responsibility, privilege, and honor to serve those around us, providing them with the means and the support they need to find their new normal and live their best lives.”

The students received certificates and recited the occupational therapy student oath before Ruppert provided the closing remarks.

CSM’s OTD program focuses on developing clinical practical skills, research skills, administration, leadership, program and policy development, advocacy, and theory development. In addition, students must complete two 12-week fieldwork experiences along with a 14-week doctoral experience that culminates in a scholarly project.

Occupational Therapy Doctorate Class of 2026

Liliana Alfaro, Denison, Iowa

Chloe Donahey, Cozad, Neb.

Ava Dross, Elkhorn, Neb.

Morgan Faust, Lincoln, Neb.

Samuel Homan, Omaha

Jasmine Ramos, Omaha

Emily Reis, Homer, Neb.

Emma Riedel, Kearney, Neb.

Anna Shelite, Alva, Okla.

Grace Souerdyke, La Vista, Neb.

Haley Vredenburgh, Council Bluffs, Iowa

Catherine Wilson, Omaha

Haylie Wong, Irvine, Calif.