Dr. Andrea (Drea) Harrison, PhD, MS, OTR/L, PNAP (she/her) 

I am a graduate of the University of Minnesota Occupational Therapy Program. Upon completion of my degree, I started my career at Abbott-Northwestern (ANW) Hospital working in acute inpatient mental health. Some of my accomplishments at ANW included advocating for patients by helping to create policy for the use of technological devices on the units and serving as co-chair of the Patient Care Council to improve patient rights and care. 

My passion for OT academia has continued to grow. I have provided instructional support and assistance with the University of Minnesota OT Master’s program by instructing several of the courses. I have also developed several courses for St. Catherine University OTA online program as an assistant professor for the OTA program. I just completed my PhD in education, with a specialization in post-secondary and adult education. These experiences have given me a unique perspective regarding OT hybrid education and the importance of academic technological enhancement to the student experience. I have provided fieldwork supervision and education at Wilder Foundation in Customized Living and supported and advocated for caregivers and people living with cognitive impairments through my work with Healthy Aging and Caregiver Support Program. 

I was a recipient of the Minnesota Occupational Therapy Association’s Communication Award, authored a chapter with Dr. Virginia Stoffel and created a free, open format, simulated electronic health record to be used in OT academia. I am also a professional member of the National Academies of Practice for Interprofessional Education and Events Coordinator for CarFit, a program supporting safe driving for older adults. 

Contact Information 

Email: harrisoa@umn.edu  or Andrea.Harrison@Wilder.org 
cell: 612-564-2462