THE Occupational Therapy Professional
Mr. Delvin Champagne, MSHE, COTA/L, CHES, ATP, ROH
Beltway Rehab Pros, Owner
In response to the disheartening health inequities and disparities that continue to plague our Black and Brown communities, Delvin Champagne, MSHE, COTA/L, CHES, ATP, had a vision. Using the blueprint of the Consortium of African American Public Health Programs (CAAPHP), which is composed of HBCU-housed Public Health programs, he developed the Consortium of Historically Black Colleges and Universities Interdisciplinary Rehab Programs (CHIRP). The mission of CHIRP is to “address issues of diversity, equity, and inclusion that impact health and health outcomes among racial, cultural, and ethnic groups.” (CHIRP, 2022). The consortium targets educators, students, and practitioners in occupational therapy, physical therapy, and speech-language pathology with the goal of securing funding and advancing research in areas that will help to reduce the health disparities gap. Although the goal is for interdisciplinary work, the founding arm consists of occupational therapy practitioners (OTPs) with backgrounds in public health either through formal training and/or practice areas.
THE STUDENT/
RECENT GRADUATED
Fatoumatta Tunkara, MS, OTR/L, LSVT
​
Fatoumatta Tunkara, MS, OTR/L, LSVT, was selected as a White House HBCU Scholar. This program recognizes undergraduate, graduate, and professional students for their accomplishments in academics, leadership, civic engagement, and much more. As an HBCU Scholar, Fatoumatta plans to represent occupational therapy and other Allied Health professions while engaging with various Federal agencies.
MAKE A NOMINATION
Do you know of an occupational therapist or an occupational therapy student that should be highlighted for there contributions or academic prowess? Let us know!