May 26, 2010
Bethesda, Maryland – The American Occupational Therapy Foundation (AOTF) sadly reports the passing of Ms. Carlotta Welles. Ms. Welles died on May 23, 2010 at her home in Claremont, CA. She was 92.
Carlotta Welles was a retired educator, and Honorary Life Board Member of the Foundation, serving as an elected director from 1979-1993. She became an honorary member of the AOTF board of directors in 1993.
Welles earned her Diploma in Occupational Therapy from the Boston School of Occupational Therapy (now Tufts University) in 1941. In 1953, she earned a Master's Degree in Occupational Therapy from the University of Southern California, and completed teacher training at UCLA in 1970. Carlotta Welles was an ardent spokesperson for ethical decision-making and professional stewardship. She was an early supporter of professional specialization and of the need for professional liability insurance.
In 1975 she received the occupational therapy profession's highest award, the Award of Merit, a richly deserved honor recognizing her many leadership roles. Carlotta Welles received the AOTA-AOTF Presidents' Commendation in honor of Wilma L. West in 2004 for her sustained contributions to the profession of Occupational Therapy over a lifetime of service. Carlotta is survived by a sister, Lucy Welles Harrell, and her lifelong partner, Florence S. Cromwell.
In learning of Carlotta Welles’s passing, Diana Ramsay, President of the American Occupational Therapy Foundation, released the following statement: “Carlotta Welles was an extraordinary leader and devoted supporter of the foundation. She exemplified the virtues of great stewardship and professional responsibility, and her legacy lives on. I offer my deepest condolences on behalf of the board.”
A memorial service will be held on June 26th, 2010 in Claremont, California. Tributes in memory of Carlotta Welles can be donated to the Carlotta Welles Scholarship for Occupational Therapy Assistant students maintained by the American Occupational Therapy Foundation.
The American Occupational Therapy Foundation is a 501c3 charitable, scientific and educational organization established in 1965. Its mission is to advance research, education, and leadership in the field of occupational therapy and to raise public awareness of the importance of enabling individuals to participate fully in life regardless of their physical, social, mental, or developmental circumstances.
Carlotta Welles
1918 - 2010
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