NSTRA Awards Ballot

I am nominating Guan Huang for the Crystal Award. As a student in the Therapeutic Recreation Diploma Program at Ivany Campus; she was an energetic and highly engaged student who brought enthusiasm; curiosity and initiative to the classroom. She was eager to learn; asked thoughtful questions and consistently demonstrated a willingness to take on new challenges. As a student with past professional/education experience; Guan’s perspective enriched classroom discussions and group learning. As a student member of NSTRA; she was actively involved in all networking events and never missed an opportunity to socialize at the Central Zone Events – even if she was the only one there:) Guan graduated with honors in June and throughout her two-year Diploma; maintained a busy volunteer and personal leisure schedule; including her favorite past time of Pickleball! She is truly an exceptional student member of the NSTRA!

We would like to nominate Emily Payne for the Crystal Award. As a recent graduate from the Dalhousie University Therapeutic Recreation Program; Emily already has a great deal of experience in the field of recreation therapy. She has been involved in various organizations; including Summer Program Coordinator with Special Olympics and Event Coordinator with Halifax Down Syndrome Society. Emily also started working as a casual Therapeutic Assistant with the TA Consult Service at Dartmouth General Hospital while completing her degree at Dalhousie. She completed her 16-week internship at the Nova Scotia Rehabilitation & Arthritis Centre; providing support to both individuals on the Stroke/Acquired Brain Injury and Spinal Cord Injury/Neurology units. During this time; she demonstrated her skills in building therapeutic rapport with a diverse patient population and providing individualized leisure interventions and group facilitation. Her dedication to learning and enhancing her skills during internship allowed for the development of a Community Outings Implementation Guide as her Special Service Project that will be used by recreation therapy professionals at NSRAC for years to come. She began work as a full-time Therapeutic Assistant on the Stroke/Acquired Brain Injury unit at NSRAC after graduation and gained further experience with the population. Emily is moving to New Brunswick in September to leave her mark on another province. We have no doubts that she will do great work for the field of recreation therapy no matter where she ends up working. We believe she is more than deserving of the Crystal Award for her leadership and commitment to the profession as a student.

Alyshia Herritt is one of the Recreation Therapists at Northwood Halifax Campus. Alyshia is the epitome of innovation; with often 3-4 innovative projects on the go at once. Alyshia directs the Therapeutic Assistant program at Northwood and does so with a commitment to person-centered care; evidence-based practice; and innovative interventions. . Alyshia is an expansive thinker; facilitating opportunities for residents with complex-behavioral needs to visit the surrounding community (e.g.; The waterfront; museums; public gardens; community church services; cafes; and more); moving our interventions beyond the four walls of Northwood; both safely and with therapeutic goals attached. Alyshia is continuously using research to inform her practice; using and advocating for up-to date and tested interventions; intervention tools; and approaches. Alyshias innovation does not stop with interventions and treatment plans; but goes beyond into the Therapeutic Recreation team itself. She creates a supportive ethos of care within the Therapeutic Assistant team by eliminating the hierarchical line between therapist and therapeutic assistant. She does this by allowing us to have a voice at the table; calling on our direct knowledge of the resident to inform her innovative interventions. Alyshia also continually searches and advocates for the Therapeutic Assistants to participate in educational opportunities; enhancing our therapeutic recreation competencies and evidence-based repertoire. Alyshias dedication to innovative service delivery through resident intervention; enhancing the skills of the team; and evidence-based practice is why I deeply believe her to be deserving of the 2026 Innovation Award.

When Nicole Martelle started the Recreation Therapy program at West Bedford Transitional Health (WBTH); she did so with huge dreams and a vision for what the profession could bring to transitional care. She has never settled for average practice; never accepted the misconception that recreation is simply something to fill a patient’s day; and never believed that a community discharge should be “standard.” Nicole’s goal is always to help people thrive; not simply survive. As a Recreation Programmer; Nicole consistently finds creative and innovative ways for patients to develop functional skills through meaningful recreation. She intentionally connects programming to either community connection or skill development; ensuring that recreation has a purpose beyond the activity itself. Whether helping patients build confidence; develop independence; discover new interests; or reconnect with their community; Nicole uses Therapeutic Recreation as a bridge between health care and meaningful life beyond discharge. Nicole’s innovation extends well beyond her direct programming. Recognizing the value of collaboration and education; she has advocated for Lunch & Learn sessions to help staff understand behaviour support through a Therapeutic Recreation lens; developed art programming designed to encourage long-term engagement; is particularly passionate about finding “outside-the-box” solutions for patients with challenging or complex needs; and; most recently; Nicole has taken her commitment to innovative; person-centered care even further by leading a palliative care committee at WBTH. Nicole Martelle is an exceptional candidate for the NSTRA Innovation Award because she does more than advocate for the value of Therapeutic Recreation—she brings that value to life every day. She sees possibilities where others may see limitations; challenges assumptions about what recreation can be; and continually creates new pathways for patients to connect; grow; and thrive.

Like Renee Gaudet; Jill Cole is well respected in the Therapeutic Recreation field; by her co-workers; residents; and members of the NSTRA. She is someone who provides a space for growth; autonomy; creativity; and healthy boundaries for those who need it. Jill advocates for everyone around her; especially the profession of Recreation Therapy; and the residents who deserve meaningful therapeutic value. Because of Jill; organizer of all volunteer services; Queens Manor has built a roster over 40-50 volunteers who assist with programs monthly. This ranges between family/friends of residents; community members; musicians; retired health care workers; and more. Our programs and volunteer services bring the community together in a way that makes our long-term care home; HOME. As a newly graduated Recreation Therapy Assistant; I’m thankful to be part of a team who continuously creates and facilitates programs that fulfill the goals of each and every resident. I feel lucky to be a part of a team who will go over and above for the residents we care for. Jill is a leader I look up to; who I learn from everyday; and strive to become. Her professionalism; sense of safety; and optimism are incomparable to any manager I have worked for. By empowering those around her; Jill shapes the next generation of RT professionals; and this is why I believe she should be honored for The Renee Gaudet Legacy Award. Thank you.

I believe Marisa Doucette; current president of the NSTRA; has well exceeded the criteria for the Legacy Award. Since meeting Marisa; she has done nothing but go above and beyond in making me feel welcomed and valued in the NSTRA. Marisa always has and continues to make time for my crazy ideas and radical dreams; doing everything within her capacity to support me in reaching my TR professional and personal goals. If I was told last year that I would be co-writing policy; co-organizing student- networking events; or becoming co-chair of a committee; I simply would not have believed you. All of those unbelievable things became a reality due to the support of the NSTRA BoD combined with Marisa’s dedicated leadership and commitment toward the profession. I can say without a doubt I would not be as eager to be involved if not for Marisa leading by example and demonstrating genuine enthusiasm and passion for every task that comes before her. Thank you Marisa for all your hard work and I greatly look forward to continuing our collaboration in the future!

Marisa Doucette is one of the most dedicated professionals I have had the privilege of knowing. Her commitment to the Recreation Therapy profession is evident in every aspect of her work. She is a passionate advocate for Recreation Therapy; always seeking opportunities to advance the profession; promote its value; and expand her own knowledge and expertise. Her enthusiasm for lifelong learning and professional excellence has inspired colleagues; students; and emerging professionals alike; encouraging others to grow alongside her. Marisa leads by example; demonstrating all the best qualities of a Recreation Therapy professional. Her commitment extends beyond her own role as an NSCC instructor for Recreation Therapy; she invests so much of her time and energy into her role as President of NSTRA and sits on/chairs multiple committees within the association.

Rebecca builds her legacy through innovative person centred programs; guiding students; active engagement with the association; her relationships with other recreation therapy professionals and through her own leisure lifestyle. Rebecca is up for trying something new; thinking out of the box and a “okay; how can we make this happen” mindset. And this is why I nominate Rebecca Hill to receive the Legacy Award for the way she embodies recreation therapy and leisure, for the legacy she continues to build, and the imprint she leaves on those she leads.

Andrea King has worked as a Recreation Therapist with multiple patient populations over her career including; Stroke/TBI; Spinal Cord Injury; Geriatrics; and Acute Care. During her time working she has developed a vast knowledge of non-pharmacological and leisure interventions that help with the development of individualized care plans for complex patients. Andrea has a passion for learning and research and has been published in several journals/textbooks and presented at various recreation therapy conferences. She most recently presented on “Putting Evidence into Practice: The Evolution of an Acute Care Recreation Therapy Practice” at the annual Canadian Therapeutic Recreation Association (CTRA) conference. She is currently a board member for the Committee on Accreditation of Recreational Therapy Education (CARTE) as a Practitioner Representative. She also works part-time as an Interprofessional Clinical Lead at Dartmouth General Hospital (DGH) and was involved in the development of Job Aids to support Recreation Therapy Professionals during the rollout of One Person One Record (OPOR) with Nova Scotia Health. Andrea has been a mentor for recreation therapy students and new professionals over the years having supported multiple students during their 16-week internships and working in collaboration with Therapeutic Assistant’s (TA’s) with both the Neurosciences Program and DGH TA Consult Service. She has demonstrated commitment to the TR profession through her research; advocacy; and clinical skills as a Recreation Therapist. Andrea is a great friend and colleague and is very much deserving of the Legacy Award.

Please accept the following submission for the NSTRA Legacy Award: Shelly Luddington. Shelly graduated in 2000 from Dalhousie University’s Recreation program with a Therapeutic Recreation concentration. She eagerly and quickly obtained the CTRS credentials by writing the NCTRC exam a few days before graduation. Shelly has maintained her CTRS credential for the past 25 years ensuring she stays knowledgeable through education and her professional practice. Over the past 25 years; Shelly has dedicated her working career to supporting residents in long-term care (LTC). Serving on all TR (therapeutic recreation) Association Boards in NS as Secretary; Member at Large; President; Regional Rep to currently serving on multiple NSTRA Committees as an active member of the LTC task force and past Presidents’ committees. Shelly continues to be passionate about her evolving professional and volunteer role as a qualified health provider. She currently works at Admiral Long Term Care facility in Dartmouth; NS. With over 25 years of experience witnessing the ever-changing needs of residents; Shelly remains current and engaged; personally supporting residents’ interests through individualized TR programs and services; while also facilitating staff education and student placements in recreation and leisure; while providing GPA coach training; and taking a leadership role on Admiral’s Palliative Care Committee. Families admire Shelly and her quality of life focus and support during residents stay; end of life and palliative process. Shelly has embraced her role with unwavering empathy; experience; and dedication; using therapeutic recreation modalities to support those in long-term care—and she truly shines. Further to professional work and her association affiliation Shelly volunteers and actively gives back to her community as a director for the Hot Rod Classics Association; a non-profit association which fundraise annually for the IWK Foundation. As a director; Shelly works tirelessly year-round helping to ensure fundraising goals are achieved but also building lasting & meaningful relationships with IWK family beneficiaries. Rene and Shelly’s passion for their families; community engagement and the field of Therapeutic Recreation is truly heartfelt and a lead by example that will continue to inspire for years to come. Congratulations to all award nominees and recipient… and; In loving memory to Rene.

Since joining Windsor Elms just over a year ago as Life Enrichment & Recreation Manager; I believe I have brought my background in Recreation Therapy into my leadership role. I take a hands-on approach and encourage my team to think differently about what is possible in long-term care. This past year; residents have enjoyed fishing trips; curling on ice; motorcycle sidecar rides; foam parties; indoor campfires; carnivals; connections with children; and many smaller moments that bring people together. I believe in leading by example and supporting my team. I work alongside staff during programs and events; help them through challenges; mentor co-op students; and encourage new ideas. I want my team to feel supported; heard; and comfortable trying something new. I have also helped rebuild relationships (after covid) with local schools; organizations; businesses; volunteers; and community groups; creating more opportunities to bring the community into the home and to help residents get out into the community. I also believe in advocating for recreation and helping others see its value. I use the Windsor Elms Facebook page to share programs and the stories behind them (not just what we did; but why it mattered). Whether it is reconnecting with an old hobby; trying something for the first time; building a relationship; or simply having fun; I want families and the wider community to see the role recreation can play in residents’ lives. I believe sharing these moments helps show the value of recreation therapy and challenges the idea that recreation is simply about keeping people busy. I believe recreation is essential; not simply something that is scheduled on a calendar. I make space for fun; laughter; creativity; and play; and believe these things remain important throughout life; regardless of age or ability. With my Recreation Therapy diploma; I am also continuing to grow professionally and am currently pursuing my CTRS. I have worked to strengthen the role of recreation therapy within the care team and advocate for recreation to have a stronger voice in care planning. As Windsor Elms moved to online documentation and assessments; I supported my team through the transition and helped update outdated forms to better fit our workflow. I have also advocated for ActivityPro; an online system that tracks attendance and resident engagement. It helps show not only who attends programs; but how residents participate and which activities are meaningful to them. This information helps us better understand residents’ interests and needs; tailor programs to them; and show the care team the value of recreation therapy. What matters most to me is that people have opportunities for recreation and play throughout their lives; regardless of age or ability. A fishing trip can reconnect someone with an old interest; a community visit can create a new friendship; and you are never too old to try something new. I look for these opportunities and encourage the people around me to do the same. I am proud of the work I have done over the past year to support residents; my team; and the role of recreation therapy at Windsor Elms. I believe in showing up; doing the work alongside others; and continuing to find ways for residents to have fun; make connections; and participate in things that are meaningful to them. These are the reasons I am putting my name forward for the NSTRA Legacy Award.

Alicia Dobranowski exemplifies the spirit of the Trailblazer Award through her consistent commitment to advancing and advocating for the Therapeutic Recreation profession. As a dedicated member of the NSTRA Advocacy Committee; Alicia has consistently contributed her time; expertise; and passion to initiatives that promote and protect the profession. Recognizing the importance of ensuring Recreation Therapy professionals are accurately represented in the workforce; she stepped into a co-chair role to support the continued efforts of the Committee. As well; under her leadership; the Job Responsiveness Task Force was reestablished with renewed purpose and momentum; demonstrating her initiative and commitment to meaningful advocacy. Through this work; she has helped reinforce professional standards; improve consistency in how Recreation Therapy roles are represented; and increase awareness of the qualifications and expertise Recreation Therapy professionals bring to their organizations. Alicia’s leadership is collaborative; thoughtful; and action-oriented. She not only identifies opportunities for improvement but also dedicates herself to creating lasting change. Her passion for advocacy; combined with her willingness to take on leadership roles and champion initiatives that benefit the profession as a whole; makes her a truly deserving recipient of the NSTRA Trailblazer Award.

I am nominating Brittany MacKeen for the Trailblazer award because she has made a huge contribution to the association over the last few years. Brittany’s dedication to the board has included many positions such as Membership Chair; Central Zone Director; co-chair of the Education Committee; active member of the Licensure Committee; President and now Past President. At a time when the association had no incoming President; she stepped into the role seamlessly; with a strong sense of confidence; leadership and a willingness to take initiative. This was also during the time when NSTRA co-hosted the CTRA conference in Halifax; which added another level of responsibility. While maintaining her role as President of NSTRA; she managed the ‘behind the scene’ tasks with grace; poise and humor. Brittany continues to lead the NSTRA in her work with the current Strategic Plan and is involved with research and evidence informed practice within her role at the Nova Scotia Rehabilitation and Arthritis Centre. Brittany is a mentor for students; new professionals and incoming Board members and is indeed a true Trailblazer in the field of Recreation Therapy.

Danielle serves as the Professional Practice Coordinator for Rehab and Supportive Care with Nova Scotia Health. She spends her time supporting recreation therapy professionals; managers and other health care team members to understand and advocate for the recreation therapy profession. She supports new hires; mentors students and professionals alike; and supports ongoing education and training opportunities. Danielle served an integral role in the training and role out of the One Patient One Record system for recreation therapy professionals. She continues to guide; answer questions and support recreation therapy professionals across NSH with navigating this system. Her knowledge; advocacy and dedication deserves to be acknowledged!