Bette Ann Harris

Bette Ann Harris is a Professor Emerita at the MGH Institute of Health Professions, where she has held multiple roles including Program Director of Graduate Programs in Physical Therapy (1992–2002), Associate Provost for Academic Affairs (2008–2012), and Interim Director of the Center for Interprofessional Studies and Innovation (2011). Her contributions span clinical research, education, and institutional leadership. She retired in 2012, receiving Emerita status and numerous honors.

Education:

• BS and Certificate in Physical Therapy, Simmons College
• MS in Physical Therapy, MGH Institute of Health Professions
• DPT, MGH Institute of Health Professions (2002)

Research Interests:

• Evaluation of strengthening programs for the elderly and functionally limited individuals (e.g., the Strong for Life program)
• Outcomes of physical therapy interventions in populations with hip fractures, orthopedic trauma, bone tumors, and neurological deficits

Her work emphasizes evidence-based practices and interdisciplinary approaches to improve patient outcomes and healthcare delivery.

Publications Trends: Her articles focus on clinical trials assessing home-based exercise programs, systematic reviews of therapy interventions, and program feasibility studies in gerontology and rehabilitation. She also contributed to educational leadership literature through her Cerasoli Lecture on interdisciplinary curricula.

• Awards:
  • Massachusetts Chapter APTA Research Achievement Award (1988)
  • Nancy T. Watts Teaching Excellence Award (2002)
  • Simmons School of Health Studies Distinguished Alumni Award (2006)
  • Pauline A. Cerasoli Lecturer (2006)
  • Institute’s Distinguished Alumni Award renamed in her honor (2006)

Advising & Grants: While no formal advisees are listed, her roles as Program Director and administrative leader reflect significant contributions to student mentoring and grant-funded research projects. She spearheaded initiatives in interprofessional education and institutional development.

Labs/Teams: Key contributor to the Strong for Life program and Interim Director of the Center for Interprofessional Studies and Innovation, fostering collaborative healthcare education and research.