This individual has done so much for recreational therapy in recent years! For her master's thesis, she completed some awesome evidence-based research on biking for older adults, obtaining grant funding to purchase a specialized bike for the residents she worked with. With that awesome research, she received the National Academy of Recreational Therapists (NART) Future Scholar award in 2023. She is an active member of URTA, and has been very involved in the Executive Committee. She has also presented at URTA and ATRA conferences in the past. She has also been an excellent supervisor of clinical education students and student interns in recent years. She has provided great contributions to RT in Utah and will continue to do that as she grows in her career.

This individual has spent his lifetime in service of recreational therapy students and the profession. He has always been an advocate for students and new professionals by creating inclusive spaces and support that allows them to succeed. Over the years, he has contributed to many publications and presentations focusing on cultural competence, inclusion, best RT practices, and quality internships!

This Recreational Therapy Program has been nominated for its exceptional efforts in rebuilding a program for vulnerable adolescents.

Adaptability to the needs of the population served: The recreation therapists administered assessments, conducted chart reviews, and conducted subjective interviews with staff to uncover the shortcomings of the existing program. Their efforts revealed that the program was failing to meet the needs of the residents, and they knew they had to do something about it. Driven by their passion for positive change, the recreation therapists tirelessly worked to develop a new program that was centered around the mission and vision of the facility and the Broaden and Build Theory of Positive Emotions.

Interdisciplinary collaboration: The program's efficacy stems from the TRS's cooperation with the psychiatric team to ensure that residents receive medication that addresses their specific behaviors. The TRSs are deeply invested in the residents' clinical stability, which is a key factor in their eligibility for off-campus outings and community service projects. Additionally, the TRSs work hand-in-hand with the primary therapists to ensure that residents' focus during RT groups aligns with the overall treatment goals. This close collaboration has resulted in the creation of the Supplemental RT Services Program, which provides additional support to residents who need help grasping therapeutic concepts. With the support of the primary therapists, the TRSs have implemented an extra 90 minutes of rec therapy bi-weekly for these residents.

Evidence-based & Integrates Theoretical Framework: This recreational therapy program has been a remarkable success at this facility, thanks to its roots in the Broaden and Build Theory of Positive Emotions. Extensive research by the recreation therapist has shown that the program's emphasis on positive emotions has led to a significant increase in the overall thought-to-action response for the facility’s population. The ability to think more clearly and act accordingly has dramatically reduced aggressive behaviors in adolescents, leading to a remarkable decrease in restraint numbers. In fact, this facility now boasts one of the lowest restraint numbers per month among all of the parent company’s facilities. The reduction in acuity, a direct result of the Broaden Experience Program, has played a crucial role in enhancing the residents' experience at the facility.

Senator Curtis Bramble was the co-sponsor for HB315 in 2023, legislation which provides Medicaid coverage for Recreational Therapy services. This was a huge accomplishment for RT in Utah, and it would not have been possible without his support and the education he provided for his fellow legislators. He worked closely with URTA to ensure that legislators were properly informed of what RT is and the benefits of RT in mental and behavioral health treatment. He was vital to the bill passing last year by making sure it passed both committee and the Senate vote. Thank you, Senator Bramble, for your amazing contribution to the Recreational Therapy profession and providing the opportunity for more access to critical services for the community!

This Award goes to a very deserving person, Maura Tanner. Mauria recently retired from Huntsman mental health. I have personally known Mauria since about 1994 when I first heard her present at our annual conference which was at the Homestead. Since that time Maura has held many positions in URTA including President, Silent Auction Chairperson, Education Co-Chair to name a few. Mauria has presented at many conferences as well as being a key person in  helping us get the quality keynotes and presenters at many more conferences. She has been an integral part of our Executive Committee for a long time, always willing to help in any capacity and sharing her insight and wisdom with us. She is really the person who most  helped us really get the Silent Auction going how it is today, she is very organized and creative and has helped us earn the money for the Student Scholarships through this work.

This is what co-workers shared about Mauria: Mauria was always available for personal and professional consultation, not only for TR’s but anyone seeking her wisdom and perspective. She always had well placed humor, sometimes unintentionally, and you could always count on finding her surrounded by others in the cafeteria during lunch on Tuesdays. Mauria was never above receiving insight and perspective from others, making each interaction with her mutually beneficial for all parties involved.

It was also shared that she was a phenomenal therapist especially with children. She had the ability to see their positive qualities and find humor, love and respect as she worked through their challenges. She also was a wonderful mentor of most students, she taught them how to be therapists.

We have appreciated having her support and friendship over many years. She doesn’t think she is worthy of accolades but believe me she is. We will miss having her involved with us and wish her the best. You are the Best!!!