Temple University’s College of Public Health mourns the loss of Carole J. Simon, a long-time faculty member whose profound impact on the field of occupational therapy and the lives of her students continues to resonate. A dedicated educator, compassionate mentor, and skilled occupational therapist, Simon was known for her warmth, wisdom, and unwavering commitment to her students and colleagues.
Throughout her tenure at Temple, Simon was celebrated not only for her expertise in occupational therapy, but also for her ability to nurture and inspire. She instilled in her students the values of caring, professionalism, and lifelong learning—qualities that are now honored through the Carole J. Simon Award. This annual award is presented to the graduating occupational therapy student who best exemplifies the compassion, knowledge, and dedication that defined Simon’s career.
Her impact is reflected in the heartfelt words of her colleagues and former students.
“For fifty years, I was given the gift of Carole's company, friendship, and wisdom in both professional and personal realms. If there are angels among us, Carole is certainly one of them,” shared Donna Weiss, Faculty Emeritus and Past Associate Dean of the College of Allied Health at Temple University.
Beth Pfeiffer, Professor in the Department of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences, also reflected on Simon’s lasting influence: “I was so fortunate to have Carole as a professor and a colleague. She was a compassionate educator and a gifted OT. She continues to have a lasting influence on my own clinical and academic professional life.”
Carole J. Simon’s legacy endures through the award in her namesake, the generations of students she mentored, the faculty she inspired, and the countless lives she touched through her work. Her presence will be deeply missed, but her contributions to the field of occupational therapy and to Temple University will never be forgotten.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Temple University’s College of Public Health, Department of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences.