Occupational Therapy (OT) is a health and rehabilitation profession that helps people of all ages to participate more fully in their day-to-day lives. Occupational therapists assist persons who are experiencing a physical, cognitive or emotional impairment recover to their maximum level of independence. By providing skilled evaluation, intervention and health promotion strategies, occupational therapists help people take care of themselves and their families, enjoy life, and contribute to the social and economic fabric of the community. The mission of the Department of Occupational Therapy at Eastern Washington University is to prepare entry-level graduates to provide occupational therapy services with distinctiveness and compassion in a variety of professional practice environments. The program will provide a foundation of skills in general practice competencies, leadership, and creative and critical thinking processes to facilitate the development of an innovative, entry-level occupational therapist. Additionally, graduates will demonstrate a commitment to the common good, creative life-long learning and high ethical standards for professional practice. A particular focus of the educational program is to prepare entry-level practitioners to work in rural, underrepresented and underserved communities. Teaching and modeling professional behavior and ethics, cultural competencies, and a respect for diversity throughout the educational program will prepare graduates to provide services in these emerging areas of practice. The program will also emphasize community-based and interdisciplinary service delivery models essential for successful practice in rural and underserved areas.