The award recognizes individuals devoted to the research-related development or testing of theory in occupational therapy around sensory processing. The award is given in honor of A. Jean Ayres, PhD, OTR, whose concentration on developing theory in support of practice was significant to occupational therapy.

Recipients are selected based on the quality and impact of their scholarly contributions, their influence within the field, peer recognition and the overall benefit of their work to occupational therapy. Glennon received the award at the AOTA INSPIRE national conference in April.

Glennon said she felt humbled upon receiving the honor. 

“I am deeply honored to be among the scholars and researchers who have been recognized over the years for advancing the concepts of sensory integration,” said Glennon. “These are individuals I have long admired and learned from who have profoundly influenced my professional journey. Some I know personally, others only through their scholarship, but all have been mentors to me in ways they don’t even realize.”

The award is a result of Glennon’s diligent efforts and long-standing passion for occupational therapy. 

“Occupational therapy just clicked for me,” said Glennon. “In high school, I had the chance to observe in an OT department, and I knew immediately that this was where I belonged, even though I didn’t have the words for it then. What struck me was the feeling in the room. Patients were experiencing genuine joy and pride in what they were able to accomplish, and the therapists shared in that joy. It felt collaborative, as if they were in it together, and that feeling stayed with me.”

Quinnipiac has been a constant for Glennon on her journey in occupational therapy. 

“I am Quinnipiac born and bred. I attended Quinnipiac (College at the time) and at my five-year reunion the OT chair, Kim Hartmann, invited me to teach a few experiential OT labs,” she said. “I began part-time and before long transitioned into a full-time faculty role. From the very beginning, Kim, my faculty colleagues, the dean and administration had my back. More than 30 years later, that hasn’t changed. I continue to feel encouraged, challenged when needed, supported when I need guidance and provided with resources I never could have imagined, all of which have shaped my professional growth and development.”

Glennon acknowledges the Quinnipiac community’s commitment to upholding high standards and pushing students to be their best. 

“I keep coming back to a feeling,” she said. “It’s the same feeling I had the first time I observed in an OT department. It may sound quaint, but there’s real pride in the way faculty, staff and administration work together to provide an experience that launches students as capable, thoughtful professionals. I’ve stayed at Quinnipiac for many years because that commitment to student success feels genuine and the administrative support for faculty pursuits hasn’t wavered.”

She is deeply thankful for Quinnipiac’s unwavering support and the opportunity to impact the next generation of occupational therapists. 

“For over 30 years, I’ve taken great pride in positively impacting future professionals who have been part of the Quinnipiac OT program,” said Glennon. “I’m incredibly thankful that Quinnipiac has provided me with such a supportive space to pursue scholarly work that addresses real professional needs. I’m truly honored that the American Occupational Therapy Foundation, through the A. Jean Ayres Award, has recognized my contributions as meaningful and beneficial to the profession.”