Dean David Vines and six representatives from the Occupational Therapy team hold a banner recognizing OT Month outside the SHP/SON Building.

SHP Professional Observances

The School of Health Professions celebrated faculty and students in two departments in April, observing Occupational Therapy Month and Medical Laboratory Professionals Week.

Occupational Therapy Month

Occupational Therapy (OT) Month is celebrated throughout April to honor practitioners and raise awareness of the profession's role in helping people regain independence, with 2026 focusing on "Enriching Lives Through Meaningful Engagement". Spearheaded by the American Occupational Therapy Association (AOTA), it highlights how OTs help individuals of all ages engage in daily life activities. (OT pictured in primary photo above.)

At UTMB, the School of Health Professions hosted a pizza party to thank OT faculty and students for their contributions to this vital profession.

Medical Laboratory Professionals Week

SHP Clinical Laboratory Sciences faculty and staff gather in a room decorated with colorful table cloths and balloons.

Medical Laboratory Professionals Week (Lab Week) was held April 19 to 25, 2026, honoring the laboratory scientists, pathologists, and technicians responsible for testing that guides 70 percent of clinical decisions. This annual observance recognizes the vital, often behind-the-scenes work that ensures diagnostic accuracy and patient care.

The Department of Clinical Laboratory Sciences in the School of Health Professions hosted a reception to celebrate their faculty and students who play a vital role in healthcare and patient advocacy.