Kiera Anderson PhD, OTR/L, NCTS

Kiera Anderson is an Assistant Professor in the Master of Arts in Occupational Therapy (MAOT) Bridge Program at St. Catherine University. She brings more than 20 years of experience as an occupational therapist working with individuals across the lifespan in schools, outpatient clinics, rehabilitation settings, homes, and community programs. Kiera also brings over 11 years of experience teaching undergraduate and graduate OT students, as well as students in education. She began her career as an occupational therapy assistant (OTA), earning a Bachelor's degree in Human Development from the State University of New York. She then completed a Bridge program to earn her MOT at Texas Woman’s University. Her passion for occupational therapy stems from a commitment to helping individuals achieve greater independence, self-determination, and participation in meaningful life activities. Kiera earned her Ph.D. in Education from the University of Central Florida, where her research focused on executive function coaching for college students with disabilities. She has developed executive function coaching programs, coordinated internship experiences, mentored students, and collaborated on research supporting persons with disabilities. She also continues to teach and mentor occupational therapy clinical doctoral students. Her scholarship focuses on executive function, self-advocacy, disability inclusion, transition services, employment readiness, and the use of technology to support independence for individuals with disabilities. She has presented extensively at state and national conferences and has published on executive function coaching, assistive technology, and postsecondary success for students with disabilities. Throughout her career, Kiera has remained actively involved in service to both the profession and her community. She serves in leadership roles within disability and transition-focused organizations, contributes as a reviewer for professional conferences and journals, and volunteers with programs that support individuals experiencing homelessness and people with disabilities. Kiera lives in Florida with her husband and enjoys spending time outdoors through hiking, kayaking, biking, and has practiced yoga for over 20 years. She also values time with family and friends and cherishes opportunities to connect with the people who are closest to her heart.