This scholarship was established in 2021 to honor Dr. Elizabeth (Beth) A. Cada’s dedication and service within the College of Health and Human Services and as Provost at Governors State University. Beth began her twenty-five-year career at GSU in 1996 as a University Professor charged with developing an Occupational Therapy program. Over the years she rose through the ranks to full professor and Chair of the Department of Occupational Therapy.

In 2018 Beth was named Provost. A lasting legacy will be her leadership in the development of the university’s next Strategic Plan Strategy 2025. Also, under her leadership GSU was recognized for continued accreditation through 2029 with the Higher Learning Commission.

Beth’s leadership and passion for the field of Occupational Therapy is also recognized by her colleagues across the state through her service on the Chicago Area Council of Occupational Therapy Directors, and across the nation as past president of the National Board for Certification in Occupational Therapy (NBCOT). Additionally, Beth's leadership is recognized by the American Occupational Therapy Association (AOTA) in her capacity as an accreditation review chair for the Accreditation Council for Occupational Therapy Education (ACOTE).

Beth’s dedication to the field of Occupational Therapy was reflected in her professional private practice for 39 years with Pediatric Rehabilitation Services. Her service and leadership at the program, department, college, university, state, and national level are embodied in this lasting legacy.

Please consider helping rehab patients get help from the professionals they need by donating to the Beth Cada Occupational Therapy Scholarship today!

Eligibility:

• Must be a degree seeking student enrolled (or enrolling) in a minimum of six credit hours within the Occupational Therapy program at Governors State University,
• Must maintain a cumulative GPA of 3.0 or higher.

Documents Required:

1. Please submit a biographic essay (500 words), discussing the reasons you choose occupational therapy as your major, your career goals, and how you will use your degree to pursue your chosen career. 
2. Letter of Recommendation? YES 

3. Possible writing prompts for essay:

1. What in your chosen field of study and / or career path are you passionate about? 
2. Is there some problem in the world you would like to solve and you feel you can do so by obtaining a degree in this field? 
3. In general what motivates or drives you, in the context of your major choice and career goals? 

Award Information:

One award of 500 dollars in Fall and Spring semesters.

Note: Award amounts may vary based on funding, availability, and addition, if any, to principal. Amount awarded shall not exceed tuition costs.

 Donation Questions:

Email us at engage@govst.edu or Call us at +1.708.235.7510

Student Applicants:

If you’re interested in applying for this scholarship, or for more information, click here. Please note that during scholarship review periods, not all scholarships will be visible.  

Visit this site regularly, as scholarship opportunities become available throughout the year.

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