April is National Occupational Therapy (OT) Month, dedicated to recognizing the role of occupational therapy practitioners in helping people across the lifespan participate in daily activities. Established in 1980 by the American Occupational Therapy Association (AOTA), this month promotes public awareness of how OTs enable independence in daily life.

 

Julia Penny, a Chicago-area native who earned her Master of Science in Occupational Therapy from Davenport University in 2021, embodies the versatility of the profession. Despite an initial hesitation to work with children, Penny found a love of pediatrics through Davenport’s fieldwork experiences. She now works in pediatric outpatient services and as an adjunct professor at her alma mater.

“Davenport staff always said to ‘keep it in mind—you never know,’” said Penny. “I started my first job in peds and I never left. I love the energy pediatrics brings and the challenges that turn into new, everyday skills. Occupational therapy offers the unique opportunity to support individuals across every stage of life, guiding them through major milestones as well as the everyday moments.” 

Occupational therapy is a unique discipline rooted in holistic care, addressing physical, mental and psychosocial needs. Each day is different, said Penny. 

“I measure my success through little wins, small steps, focusing on the daily excitement of everything we do. If you’re working with a client and they’re able to brush their teeth independently or learn how to tie their shoes, those everyday skills we often take for granted, there’s nothing more rewarding than that moment. That’s exactly why we do what we do.” 

Penny works in Grand Rapids and along the Lakeshore under a home health care model. She treats children in their environments at home, daycare or school.

“It is empowering to meet them where they are,” Penny said. “Depending on the source of the client’s stress, I can step into their environment and work toward a solution. By focusing on community integration, I often get to witness meaningful and impactful clinical progress.” 

Penny also works with the next generation of clinicians as an adjunct professor at Davenport, teaching courses on mental health and therapeutic use of self, a course designed to help students build collaborative, trust-based relationships with clients to improve outcomes.

 “Julia’s journey emphasizes the power of mentorship and advocacy in occupational therapy,” said Jenni Bingman, Occupational Therapy interim department chair. “She leaned into new experiences, found her passion in pediatrics, and now gives back to the next generation, exactly the kind of full-circle impact we hope to foster in our graduates.”

Penny noted recent student advocacy efforts at the State Capitol organized by Davenport’s occupational therapy faculty.

“It’s important to continue advocating for OT and the need for OT,” she said. “We are a discipline rooted in holistic health care, addressing mental, physical and psychosocial elements. That makes it a uniquely important and necessary profession.”

For students considering a future in the field, Penny said it’s all about inspiring change in people and building connections.

“Growing up, I loved working with kids and geriatrics; I loved being in schools and in the radiology department at the hospital. I just loved being everywhere,” said Penny. “And occupational therapy made it all possible.”

“I measure my success through seeing a child write their name, try a new activity or wear once-uncomfortable clothing,” she said. “Those moments make up our lives, and it is a privilege to be part of so many people’s journeys.” 

For more information on Davenport University’s Master of Science in Occupational Therapy program, visit  davenport.edu/academics/areas/health-professions/master-science-occupational-therapy.