Guest Blog Post: Presidents' Day and Occupational Therapy: An Unexpected Connection

Today, February 17, we celebrate Presidents' Day. You may think of it as a day off from work or school, or perhaps you remember learning that it honors the birthdays of George Washington and Abraham Lincoln.

Now, you might be wondering—why feature a post about Presidents' Day on an occupational therapy blog? As an amateur history buff whose favorite subject is the U.S. presidency, I was challenged by Ms. Sam to find a connection between America's highest office and occupational therapy.

Though I take pride in my knowledge of presidential trivia and clearing out the category on Jeopardy!, I couldn't immediately think of an answer off the top of my head.

Thankfully, my research didn't take long. I discovered that following the passage of House Joint Resolution 471 in the United States Congress, President George H.W. Bush proclaimed October 14, 1992, as National Occupational Therapy Day. The proclamation recognizes occupational therapy practitioners for their commitment to high-quality patient care, stating:

"Today we salute the men and women who have chosen to serve their fellowman through this profession."

The full text can be read here, thanks to The American Presidency Project. Who knows? Maybe this trivia will come in handy the next time you watch Jeopardy!

Chris Russell, M.Ed.

Chris holds a Bachelor of Arts and a Master of Education from the University of Florida. Formerly a middle and high school teacher, Chris has experience training and teaching in both public and private sectors. Currently working in talent acquisition within the healthcare field, he continues to engage with students at the doctoral level.