Jennifer Summers
Clinical Associate Professor , Occupational Therapy
Doctoral Capstone Coordinator , Occupational Therapy
Focus Areas
Office Phone
Office
1919 W. Taylor St., 356 AHSB
Mail Code
811
Office Hours
By appointment
About
Dr. Summers serves as the Doctoral Capstone Coordinator and Clinical Associate Professor for the Department of Occupational Therapy. She has teaching experience from Grand Valley State University and University of St. Augustine for Health Sciences, where she was also a Senior Faculty Development Specialist.
Dr. Summers has clinical experience as an OT and OTA in a multitude of settings including acute care, subacute care, inpatient and community mental health, home health, and non-traditional settings such as in domestic violence shelters, prison systems, and other community environments. Her research endeavors include projects related to sexuality and disability, voting accessibility, advocacy training, and inclusive teaching practices.
Selected Publications
“Implications of the Affordable Care Act for occupational therapy practitioners providing services to Medicare recipients”, American Journal of Occupational Therapy
“Culturally competent interventions to address obesity among African American and Latino children and youth”, Occupational Therapy in Health Care
Leadership in the Profession
Texas Occupational Therapy Association , Political Action Committee Chair (2020-2022)
Michigan Occupational Therapy Association, Advocacy Committee Chair (2016-2019)
Michigan Occupational Therapy Association, Public Policy Director (2015-2019)
Notable Honors
2018 - Kimboko Inclusion Award , Grand Valley State University
2017 & 2018 - Service Award , Michigan Occupational Therapy Association
2016 - Legislative Award, Michigan Occupational Therapy Association
2015 - Student Achievement Award , AHS University of Illinois at Chicago
Education
OTD (post professional), University of Illinois at Chicago, 2014
MS, Occupational Therapy, University of Illinois at Chicago, 2012
BS, Behavioral Science, Grand Valley State University, 2010
AAS, Occupational Therapy Assisting, Grand Rapids Community College, 2001