Jennifer Summers, OTD, OT/L, FNAP
Clinical Associate Professor
Doctoral Capstone Coordinator
Occupational Therapy
Contact
Building & Room:
356 AHSB
Address:
1919 W. Taylor St.
Office Phone:
Email:
CV Download:
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, the Model of Human Occupation, and inclusive teaching practices.
Selected Publications
Professional Leadership
Networking Coordinator (2023-present), Illinois Occupational Therapy Association
Governance Task Force member (2024-present), Illinois Occupational Therapy Association
Annual Forum committee member (2024-present), National Academy of Practice
Political Action Committee Chair (2020-2022), Texas Occupational Therapy Association
Advocacy Committee Chair (2016-2019), Michigan Occupational Therapy Association
Public Policy Director (2015-2019), Michigan Occupational Therapy Association
Notable Honors
2025, Distinguished Fellow, National Academies of Practice
2024, Leader of the Year, University of Findley, Department of Occupational Therapy
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