THE COMMUNIQUÉ
MEET THE BOARD
Carol M. Michels - Director of Advocacy
Please tell us about
your professional
background.
My career has includ-
ed practicing in a va-
riety of settings, en-
gaging in formal and
informal
mentoring
programs for fellow
practitioners, creating
state practice guide-
lines, and presenting
locally and nationally
around advocacy and
leadership opportunities. I am currently the Director
of District Services for a special education coopera-
tive. In addition to my degree in occupational thera-
py, I also have a degree in elementary education and
a doctorate in educational leadership.
How did you choose the position with ILOTA?
The Director of Advocacy at ILOTA was a strong
match for my personal and professional goals and
values. I see a need to focus on policy change to al-
low occupational therapy an increased sphere of
practice and influence across practice settings. My
passion is assisting occupational therapy practition-
ers in becoming leaders that can shape the future of
health care and public education on a national level.
To meet these lofty goals, I believe it necessary to
focus on advocacy for our entire profession while
understanding the context of individual practitioners
in their unique settings.
What are some key things you have learned and/
or contributed while working with ILOTA's
board?
I have learned that the ILOTA board is composed of
occupational therapy practitioners who are dedicated
to their profession. My contribution thus far includes
just learning the role! I have also designed a struc-
ture for an advocacy advisory group to monitor advo-
cacy needs across the unique therapy practice areas
in our profession.
What are your goals for the future at ILOTA?
I see a need to focus on policy change to allow occu-
pational therapy an increased sphere of practice and
influence across practice settings. To meet this goal,
I believe it necessary to focus on advocacy for our
entire profession while understanding the context of
individual practitioners in their unique settings. I plan
to expand interest and involvement from every mem-
ber of our incredible profession and to provide a
structured approach to systematically identify prac-
tice and leadership barriers, creating a unified voice
to overcome these barriers and pave the way for new
levels of influence. Illinois occupational therapy prac-
titioners can and should be thought and practice
leaders that influence our profession on a state and
national level.
How do you create a work/life balance for your-
self?
That question is one I constantly explore and it is of-
ten difficult to find that balance. I am lucky to have a
wonderful family who, while honoring my need to
contribute to my profession, also reminds me of the
need to slow down and see the joy in all of life.
What are your interests outside of work?
My time outside of work is precious and I try to spend
as much time as possible with my husband and chil-
dren, being an active part of their lives and sharing
their interests. I am also fascinated with the structure
and current changes in public education and enjoy
reading about and discussing this topic. In addition, I
am certified in various alternative healthcare tech-
niques and enjoy attending seminars and practicing
in this area.
What advice would you give to an ILOTA mem-
ber?
My advice is to explore the website and discover all
the information and opportunities available through
ILOTA. I would also advise members to become in-
volved in whatever way interests them, no matter
how much or little time they have available to contrib-
ute. Supporting ILOTA supports our profession and
the more and varied voices that contribute, the
stronger the occupational profession will be.
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