Meet Our Faculty Researcher: Brenna Beard
Feb 18, 2025 | Research Centre
Brenna Beard’s journey in healthcare and education is one of dedication, curiosity, and a deep passion for making a difference by being driving with a desire to improve patient care and enhance student learning. With a Bachelor of Health Sciences from the University of Ottawa and a Master of Science in Occupational Therapy from McMaster University, she has built a strong foundation that allows her to bridge research to clinical practice and education seamlessly.
Her career began in seniors’ mental health as an Occupational Therapist, where she worked closely with older adults to support their cognitive, emotional, and physical well-being. She then gained experience in an inpatient medical setting, expanding her knowledge and skills. However, her passion for education led her to Canadore College, where she developed and launched the Occupational Therapist Assistant/Physiotherapist Assistant (OTA/PTA) program. Over the past 13 years, she has been shaping the next generation of healthcare professionals while continuing her clinical work in private practice, where she assesses and treats Veterans facing physical, cognitive, and mental health challenges.
Research has always been a natural extension of Brenna’s work. "I’ve always believed that research isn’t just about collecting data, it’s about curiosity, problem-solving, and ultimately making a real impact," she shares. She published a scoping review from her master’s research titled, The Participation of Children and Youth with Disabilities in Activities Outside of School: A Scoping Review and is currently involved in two impactful projects: Check the Neck and Applying a 4M Framework to Interprofessional Education.
For Brenna, one of the most rewarding aspects of research at the College is the opportunity to collaborate. "Working with colleagues, community partners, and professionals from different disciplines is what makes research so powerful. It strengthens the process and leads to meaningful change," she explains. She values these partnerships not only for the knowledge they generate but also for the real-world improvements they bring to health and education.
Her motivation for research comes from a commitment to continuous learning and growth. "I want to take what I learn and apply it—whether that’s improving patient care or enriching the educational experiences of students," she says. She is passionate about bridging research with practice, ensuring that innovative ideas turn into tangible benefits in healthcare and education. Looking ahead, she intends to pursue a PhD in education, reinforcing her dedication to shaping the future of learning.
Brenna understands that research can feel intimidating, but she encourages others to approach it with curiosity and patience. "Research is a journey, not a straight path. Every step, whether it’s a success or a setback, teaches you something valuable," she reflects. She also emphasizes the power of collaboration, noting that engaging with diverse perspectives makes research stronger and more impactful. "Don’t be afraid to start—every research project, no matter how small- has the potential to make a meaningful difference."
Most importantly, she wants students and colleagues to know that research is not just about numbers and data, “it’s about solving real problems and making a tangible difference in people’s lives. "Research fosters critical thinking, adaptability, and lifelong learning—skills that are essential in any career. Even if you don’t see immediate answers, every step forward adds value and moves the field in the right direction."
At its core, Brenna’s research is about finding practical solutions that help educators and healthcare professionals excel in their fields. She has a passion for interprofessional education, recognizing its potential to improve patient outcomes and strengthen collaboration across healthcare disciplines. "Through research, I want to develop tools and strategies that ensure students graduate with confidence and the skills they need to succeed in their careers," she shares. With her combination of academic expertise, clinical experience, and passion for innovation, Brenna Beard is helping to shape the future of healthcare education. Her work continues to inspire students, colleagues, and the broader research community, proving that curiosity and collaboration can lead to meaningful change.