There’s a growing recognition that occupational therapy research must better reflect the people and communities it serves. But recognition alone isn’t enough. We need to create purposeful pathways that eliminate obstacles and provide genuine support.

Many occupational therapy (OT) scholars, particularly those from underrepresented backgrounds, those with disabilities, and/or those working in under-resourced settings, encounter systemic challenges when attempting to engage in research. These challenges may include a lack of mentorship, limited access to institutional resources, and funding gaps that hinder their ability to participate fully in the scientific conversation.

The Standing for Research Inclusion, Diversity, and Equity (STRIDE) Mentored Research Scholarship exists to change that.

The scholarship, funded by the American Occupational Therapy Foundation (AOTF) and guided by the STRIDE committee, offers scholars valuable research experience with a dedicated mentor, either online or in person. This opportunity fosters skill development, professional growth, and engagement in national research networks.

In 2024, STRIDE awardees focused on various research topics, including maternal health, hospital readmissions, and neurodiverse youth. Their work, along with previous recipients, contributes to the advancement of occupational therapy (OT) through personal experiences, professional commitment, and mentorship.

Mentored. Funded. Empowered.
That’s what STRIDE offers: funded support for tomorrow’s OT leaders.

Apply by July 7 to take the next step in your research journey.

The Occupational Therapy Journal of Research (OTJR), published by the American Occupational Therapy Foundation (AOTF), is proud to introduce a new Infographic Series—created to help bridge the gap between research and practice.

These visually engaging, evidence-informed resources are designed to make core concepts in occupational therapy more accessible, shareable, and ready for implementation across various settings.

Whether you're supporting emotional regulation, promoting daily function, or working in emerging areas of occupational therapy (OT) practice, our infographics can serve as quick references, teaching tools, or conversation starters with clients, caregivers, students, and colleagues.

Our first infographic highlights the Zones of Regulation™ framework—an approach that helps individuals identify and manage emotions using four color-coded zones: Blue, Green, Yellow, and Red. It’s a powerful tool for building self-awareness, supporting co-regulation, and creating a shared language around emotions in clinical and educational environments.

Download the Zones of Regulation infographic and use it in your sessions, classrooms, or team discussions. This is just the beginning. We’ll continue adding more OTJR infographics to the AOTF website throughout the year—all grounded in occupational therapy research and designed to help you bring evidence to life in your daily work. Stay tuned—and thank you for helping us move OT research forward!