HEMPSTEAD, N.Y. — Victoria Haas of Fanwood recently joined 35 students from the Hofstra University School of Health Professions and Human Services (HPHS) who traveled to Albany, N.Y., for Occupational Therapy (OT) Advocacy Day.

The trip was an opportunity for Ms. Haas to meet and work directly with key legislators on topics that affect occupational-therapy practice in New York state. The March 5 event included hundreds of practitioners, students and supporters.

The Hofstra students were able to make the trip thanks to the generous donation of Dr. Dawn Plumitallo, a Hofstra alumna, member of the HPHS Dean’s Advisory Board and founder of Kids First. Ms. Haas, accompanied by Dr. Robin Akselrud, interim director of the Occupational Therapy Program, met with 10 elected officials over the course of the day.

“This trip was focused on advocating for our clients, consumers and for the profession of occupational therapy. As an educator, it’s important for us to ensure that our program instills in our students — soon to be clinicians — the importance and impact of advocacy within their career,” said Dr. Akselrud.

Hofstra University is comprised of 13 schools, which feature a variety of departments, as well as multiple academic institutes and centers. For further information, visit hofstra.edu.