ILOTA Communique 2020 Communique Issue 1 | Page 16

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. Page 16