Evidence In Motion (EIM) is proud to celebrate a historic achievement for our partner, Hawai’i Pacific University (HPU). The HPU Doctor of Occupational Therapy program (OTD) in Honolulu has earned full, seven-year accreditation from the Accreditation Council for Occupational Therapy Education (ACOTE), becoming the first and only fully accredited OTD program in Hawai’i.
First Fully Accredited Doctor of Occupational Therapy Program in Hawaii
Launched in January 2024, the 24-month hybrid OTD program is housed in HPU's Graduate College of Health Sciences and led by Program Director Tracey Recigno, Ph.D., OTD, OTR/L. Students combine engaging online coursework with immersive, in-person lab experiences in downtown Honolulu, building skills in evidence-based practice, interprofessional collaboration and culturally responsive care.
In its review, ACOTE commended the HPU OTD program as a model of collaborative excellence and cultural integrity. Faculty were recognized for living HPU's values of aloha, pono and kuleana through student-centered coaching and a curriculum that integrates Hawaiian traditions into every lesson. The program's community partnerships — from adaptive surfing clinics to Go-Baby-Go mobility projects — highlight the real-world impact of occupational therapy in Hawai’i.
"This milestone reflects the unwavering support of our university leadership, the collaborative spirit of our Graduate College of Health Sciences and the passion of our faculty and students," Recigno said. "We look forward to expanding access to occupational therapy education in Hawai’i and nurturing practitioners who will serve our ohana and communities across the nation."
Addressing Hawaii's Occupational Therapy Workforce Shortage
Occupational therapy professionals help people of all ages overcome barriers to participation — whether by creating a sensory-friendly classroom, supporting independence at home or advocating for workplace accommodations. With demand for occupational therapists projected to grow 11% nationally over the next decade, and Hawaii ranking among the top states with the largest projected shortage, HPU's program plays a vital role in closing the gap.
David Eby, CEO of EIM, emphasized the broader significance of this achievement. "HPU's accreditation affirms its leadership in health care education and takes a major step toward solving Hawaii's occupational therapy shortage," Eby said. "By preparing culturally competent, locally rooted practitioners, the program is building a future where every community across the islands has access to the care, support and advocacy it needs."
Congratulations to HPU on this milestone and on advancing the future of occupational therapy in Hawai’i.