Keynote Address
Thursday, March 21, 11:15 am–12:30 pm
Simon T. Bailey, Writer and Entrepreneur
Resilience at Work – How to Coach Yourself into a Thriving Future
After leaving Disney and reinventing himself five times in twenty years, Simon realized it was time to evolve yet again.
What does Resilience at Work look like? Be prepared to accept How to Coach Yourself into a Thriving Future. It’s not just a business parable; it is a call to arms. A call to embrace the unknown, to transform adversity into triumph, and to forge a path towards a future that will leave everything in its wake. Brace yourselves, for the journey ahead will be both tumultuous and awe-inspiring. Simon will share the resilience of occupational therapy practitioners—that he interviewed prior to his keynote—that will serve as a ray of hope, illuminating the way forward in this brave new world.

Simon T. Bailey, a trailblazer in his field, has ascended to extraordinary heights, recognized among Success magazine’s Top 25 alongside Brené Brown, Tony Robbins, and Oprah Winfrey, as well as leadersHum Top 200 Power List in 2023.
With the Disney Institute as his launchpad, he’s left an indelible mark on 2,300+ organizations in 54 countries, such as American Express, Deloitte, Marriott, Visa, Stanford Health Care, and Taco Bell. Through books, speeches, and coaching, Simon captivates the lives of countless individuals around the globe, inspiring them to lead better, stay curious, and embrace a growth mindset.
Film Screening: Do No Harm
Thursday, March 21, 5:30 pm–6:30 pm
How do we respond to the reproductive rights controversy? How does legislation impact best practice? Join us for a screening of the short film – Do No Harm – which is a theatrical exploration of the impact of reproductive rights legislation based upon interviews with healthcare professionals.
A moderated panel will discuss the issues raised after the film. Join the discussion. Open to all registered attendees.
Yoga for EveryBODY: Community Yoga Class
Friday, March 22, 7:00 am–7:45 am
Led by Jessica K. Lynn Hatfield, MS, OTR/L, SIPT, CKTP
Unite with your OT community for a dynamic vinyasa class. In this class, you will move, lengthen, and breathe with emphasis on mindfulness, alignment, and focus. While this class is designed for all humans regardless of circumstances, you will be asked to step outside of your comfort zone to transform in all aspects of being human: mind, body and spirit. Be ready to connect, laugh, and grow!
Recommendations: Wear layered nonrestrictive clothing. Bring water, a hand towel, and yoga mat. Pro-Tip: Foldable travel yoga mats fit great in suitcases. Hotel towels also work great in a pinch!

Presidential Address
Friday, March 22, 11:30 am–12:15 pm
Alyson Stover, MOT, JD, OTR/L, BCP
Different but Same
Discover how occupational therapy is the ultimate contradiction; we are the same but can look so different. Join AOTA President Stover as she highlights some of the unique ways occupational therapists and occupational therapy assistants are practicing today and come away inspired by the positive impact we’re making in the world.
Yoga for EveryBODY: Gentle Yoga Practice
Saturday, March 23, 7:00 am–7:45 am
Led by Rachel Allen-McHugh, PP-OTD, MS, OTR/L, RYT, CEIM
Join your fellow occupational therapy practitioners for a gentle yoga practice. This class will provide you the opportunity to gently move, stretch, and breathe in preparation for another great day at AOTA INSPIRE 2024! Variations will be provided to assist individuals with unique physical needs. Chairs will be available for those who prefer not to be seated on the floor.
Recommendations: Wear layered non-restrictive clothing, Bring a water bottle, hand towel, and yoga mat. You may substitute a hotel towel for a mat if needed.
Eleanor Clarke Slagle Lecture
Saturday, March 23, 11:15 am–12:30 pm
Anita Bundy, ScD, OT/L, FAOTA, FOTARA
Bubble wrap is for Packages, Not for People: Balancing Dignity of Risk with Duty of Care
Supporting clients and their families to live “ordinary lives” is at the heart of occupational therapy. But an ordinary life—no matter who is living it—is full of risks. And risks often make us a little anxious. What if I, as a practitioner, encourage a client to take a risk and something undesirable does happen? Will I have shirked my duty of care?
Not all experiences we label as risky lead to undesirable outcomes. Some simply involve challenge by pushing individuals beyond their comfort zone so they can achieve more than ever before.
Self-esteem is born out of meeting challenges. So is respect. In supporting clients and families to meet the challenges of an ordinary life, we balance duty of care with dignity of risk.

Awards & Recognitions Ceremony
Saturday, March 23, 5:15 pm–6:30 pm
Each year, AOTA and AOTF recognize and honor our colleagues who have made significant contributions to enrich the profession of occupational therapy. Feel the excitement and be inspired during this year’s engaging ceremony, as we unveil the winners of AOTA’s and AOTF’s most prestigious awards.
Awards & Recognitions Reception
Saturday, March 23, 6:30 pm–7:30 pm
It's time to celebrate with AOTA and AOTF award recipients! Photo ops, music, socializing, and more create an unforgettable evening of festivities for all to enjoy as we close out AOTA INSPIRE 2024! Free to everyone.
Registration Opens October 25