02/27/2026
Black History Month | Occupational Therapy
This Black History Month, we’re honoring Black pioneers whose leadership and advocacy helped shape occupational therapy and expand access to meaningful care for children and families.
🤎 Naomi B. Wright was one of the first two Black registered occupational therapists in the United States. She played a pivotal role in developing the first occupational therapy curriculum at Howard University, helping establish educational pathways that prepared future therapists to support individuals in daily living skills and early intervention settings.
🤎 Ruth Coleman Denard is recognized alongside Wright as one of the first Black occupational therapists, officially listed in 1946. Her presence in the profession helped break racial barriers and paved the way for greater representation and inclusion within occupational therapy.
🤎 Dr. Lela Llorens was a renowned leader in occupational therapy research and professional development. She served as chair of the American Occupational Therapy Association’s Research Advisory Council and made significant contributions that strengthened evidence-based practice and advanced the profession as a whole.
🤎 Jerry Bentley was a passionate advocate for social justice and a founding member of the Black Occupational Therapy Caucus in 1974. His work focused on minority recruitment, mentorship, and equity, helping ensure occupational therapy better reflected and served diverse communities.
At Miracle Kids, we honor their legacy by supporting children as they build independence, confidence, and essential life skills through compassionate, inclusive occupational therapy.
