Throughout her career, Maralynne Mitcham was a pioneer who worked tirelessly to advance the profession of occupational therapy through her contributions to education. She had a great capacity to think conceptually and creatively. “Doing thinking,” as she would call it, was another hallmark of her career. No matter the challenge, she always saw the big picture first, and then she ascertained how to collaborate, connect, and marshal needed resources.
In her role as an academician and educational leader, Maralynne was an early adopter of new ideas and sought to create a sense of community and inclusion in which all were welcome to participate. Time and time again, she pioneered educational innovation, led the way for others, and brought about lasting change in our profession. “Education as Engine” (Mitcham, 2014) was the Eleanor Clarke Slagle Lecture she delivered at the American Occupational Therapy Association’s (AOTA’s) Annual Conference & Expo...
