CAOT Announces the 2025 Recipient of its Prestigious Muriel Driver Memorial Lectureship Award
CAOT is proud to announce that Dr. Catherine Donnelly is the recipient of the 2025 Muriel Driver Memorial Lectureship Award, the organization’s most prestigious honour that recognizes the outstanding contributions made by an individual in the fields of research, teaching, and the practice of occupational therapy. Dr. Donnelly is an occupational therapist and an Associate Professor at Queen’s University’s School of Rehabilitation Therapy with a cross appointment to the Department of Family Medicine. As is tradition, she will deliver a lecture on a topic of her choice at CAOT Conference 2026, which is taking place in Tiohtià:ke/Montréal, Québec, from May 13-15.
Dr. Donnelly is being recognized for her outstanding impact on occupational therapy in Canada through research, education, and practice. These contributions have highlighted and strengthened the profession, both directly and through her dedication to CAOT and the Ontario Society of Occupational Therapy. As a researcher, she has demonstrated exceptional foresight and conducted pivotal research to move our profession forward. With 94 published papers, over $11 million in research grants, and pioneering work in primary care and aging in place, she leads with vision, inspiring transformation through her personal example and innovative approach. As a clinician, she has had a direct impact in demonstrating the contributions of occupational therapy in primary care to clients, interprofessional teams, and policymakers. Catherine also spearheaded the development, evaluation, and expansion of the innovative Oasis model, which supports community aging in place.
“Dr. Donnelly has consistently demonstrated vision and impact, while preparing future generations of OTs and exemplifying leadership, commitment, and passion as a clinician, researcher, and educator at Queen's University,” said Lisa Diamond-Burchuk, CAOT’s Board Chair. “She embodies the cutting-edge spirit that CAOT celebrates through the Muriel Driver Memorial Lectureship Award.” More information is available in English and French.
Successful CAOT Conference 2025 in Edmonton
CAOT was pleased to host WFOT’s President, Samantha Shann, at its 2025 Conference from May 7-9. More than 640 in-person attendees joined the successful event in amiskwaciwâskahikan/Edmonton, Alberta, which featured 220+ sessions on a wide range of topics and many networking opportunities.