Amanda Glassburner was born and raised in Tyler, Texas and graduated from TK Gorman High School. Before graduating high school, Amanda was deeply inspired by observing her grandmother’s occupational therapist. “I can do that,” Amanda said, and began researching Occupational Therapy Assistant (OTA) programs in Texas. Navarro College was one of the only two institutions to offer such a program, and with Corsicana being close to home and her family, Amanda decided it was an obvious choice. In 2005, Amanda graduated with her associate degree in occupational therapy to pursue a rewarding career as a certified occupation therapy assistant with an additional nationally-recognized OTA certification (NBCOT) to practice all across the United States.  

Amanda’s passion for the well being of others and occupational therapy transcends any clinical or hospital setting – she has made it her mission to provide affordable, proactive care that caregivers can implement in the lives of pediatric and adult patients by creating the Therapy Busy Box. She hopes that the Therapy Busy Box “will help parents progress their children through many developmental milestones or give friends and families or caregivers the tools they need to engage with their loved one during their rehab journey, allowing them to become a part of the solution during a potentially difficult and sometimes helpless time.” Even as an alumni of 20 years, Amanda recalls the profound impact Navarro College made on her life through exceptional professors and curriculum along with a supportive learning environment. Amanda “especially appreciated the smaller class sizes, which allowed for easy access to my instructors and a more personalized education.” She continues, “My experience at NC reinforced the value of community, support, and strong relationships — principles that continue to guide me in my professional and personal life.” The proximity of Navarro College to her hometown of Lindale proved to be critical when she was made known of her mother’s breast cancer diagnosis: “It was an incredibly emotional and challenging time for me, but I was fortunate to have supportive professors who showed kindness and patience as I navigated both my studies and my family’s situation. Their understanding allowed me to stay focused on my education while also being there for my mom during her treatment.”  

One of Amanda’s proudest accomplishments to date is winning the NBCOT COTA Impact Award in 2024. She states, “this recognition validated the hard work and dedication I’ve poured into my profession and Therapy Busy Box… it was an honor to be acknowledged.” Amanda and her business Therapy Busy Box was also featured in CBS News Texas during Stroke Awareness Month in May 2023, highlighting how the Busy Box has helped stroke survivors recover.  

“My journey continues to be shaped by my dedication to helping others, personal growth, and embracing adventure, both in my professional and personal life,” says Amanda. Outside of her career, she enjoys marathon running, traveling with her husband, Brian, and spending time with their dog, Milo. She is currently working toward earning her Abbott Six Star Medal by completing the seven World Major Marathons. She is also frequently involved with Endure to Cure, a charity that supports children fighting cancer.  

 

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