Suzanne Perea Burns

Suzanne Perea Burns serves as an Associate Professor in the Occupational Therapy Graduate Program at the University of New Mexico's School of Medicine, where she teaches OCTH 574L Community Health, OCTH 604L Appl Occ II - Neurological Practice, and OCTH 594 Seminar C.

Her academic credentials include:

• Bachelor of Science in Nutrition/Dietetics from the University of New Mexico
• Master of Occupational Therapy from the University of New Mexico
• Ph.D. in Occupational Therapy from Texas Woman's University
• Interdisciplinary postdoctoral fellowship focused on disparities in stroke recovery outcomes at the Medical University of South Carolina

Dr. Burns specializes at the intersection of post-stroke disability (particularly executive function impairments) and community living, with primary research focused on developing mobile health (mHealth) interventions to improve outcomes for people with disabilities. Her secondary research addresses health disparities among stroke survivors through technology-enhanced solutions, emphasizing accessibility and participation in community settings. This dual focus positions her work at the critical nexus of rehabilitation science and health equity.

Her scientific recognition includes:

• 2019 Young Investigator Award in Post-Acute Stroke Rehabilitation (ASA/ACRM)
• Multiple ACRM Early Career Awards (2016-2018)
• UNM Distinguished Alumni Award (2017)
• Texas Woman's University Outstanding Graduate Research Assistant (2016)
• Sheila Mun-Bryce Research Award (2011)

Dr. Burns has secured competitive extramural and foundation grants as Principal Investigator and Co-Investigator, with extensive national service on professional boards. She actively mentors students and disseminates findings through peer-reviewed publications and presentations, maintaining an ORCiD profile (0000-0003-0409-1088) for scholarly visibility.

Her research program operates at the forefront of rehabilitation technology, developing practical mHealth tools that bridge clinical interventions with real-world community applications for disabled populations.