Clarissa Saunders-Newton

Clarissa Saunders-Newton is an Associate Professor of Clinical Occupational Therapy and Academic Fieldwork Coordinator (Adult Physical Rehabilitation) at the University of Southern California's Chan Division of Occupational Science and Occupational Therapy. She holds a PhD in Occupational Science (USC, 2009), an MS in Gerontology (USC, 1994), and a BS in Occupational Therapy (Loma Linda University, 1983). Her research focuses on lifestyle factors affecting health outcomes in individuals with spinal cord injuries, particularly pressure ulcer prevention. She has contributed to studies published in journals like Disability and Rehabilitation. Saunders-Newton is actively involved in academic fieldwork coordination and has presented at national conferences, including the American Occupational Therapy Association (AOTA) conferences in 2013 and 2014 with USC colleagues. Her work emphasizes evidence-based interventions and policy advocacy for accessible healthcare services.