It has been a week since we learned of the passing of Jutta Hinrichs, a distinguished occupational therapist whose legacy has left a mark on the profession.
Over a remarkable career that spanned five decades, Hinrichs’ dedication to advancing occupational therapy and mentoring generations of students shaped not only the lives of those she taught, but the profession as well.
A respected professor in the University of Alberta’s Faculty of Rehabilitation Medicine until her retirement in July 2024, Hinrichs was known for her unwavering commitment to education and mentorship. Her impact extended well beyond the classroom.
Hinrichs’ dedication to the profession and her community was demonstrated through over forty years of volunteer service. She held numerous leadership and committee roles across key professional organizations, including:
- AAROT: Education Committee Member (1982 – 1984), Treasurer (1988 – 1990) , Member – Standards of Practice for Long Term Care (1992 – 1993), and Discipline Committee Member (1993 – 2005)
- SAOT: Awards Committee (2014–2015), CAOT Representative (2007–2013)
- CAOT: Conference Abstract Reviewer, Alberta Board Member (2007–2013), Chair of the Complaints Committee (2013–2015), Treasurer (2016–2019), and Co-convener of the 2016 Annual Conference in Banff
Her contributions were widely recognized with several prestigious honours, such as:
- AAROT President’s Award (1990)
- Multiple Sclerosis Society of Canada Queen’s Jubilee Medallion (2003)
- United Way of Calgary Spirit of Gold – Outstanding Community Volunteer (2007)
- CAOT Fellowship Award (2014)
- SAOT Sharon Brintnell Lifetime Achievement Award (2024)
Our thoughts are with Hinrichs’ family, friends, colleagues, and all those whose lives she touched. We are grateful for her legacy, which will continue to inspire for years to come.